Navigating Disability Support Services in Melbourne: A Complete Guide for Families

Supporting a loved one with a disability can be deeply rewarding—but it also comes with its fair share of complexities, especially when it comes to understanding what support services are available and how to access them. If you’re a family based in Melbourne, the good news is that there’s a wealth of support available—you just need to know where to look. 

At My Holistic Care (MHC), we know that every family’s journey is different. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you navigate disability support services in Melbourne—from understanding the NDIS to finding the right care for your loved one. 

 

Understanding Disability Support Services in Melbourne 

Melbourne is home to a wide network of disability support providers offering services funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) as well as community-based and private options. These services aim to empower people living with disabilities to live independently, build skills, engage in their communities, and achieve personal goals. 

Disability support services cover a broad range of areas, including: 

  • Personal care and daily living assistance 
  • Transport support 
  • Household and garden maintenance 
  • Allied health services 
  • Community participation 
  • Respite for families and carers 
  • Home modifications and accessibility solutions 
  • Mental health and psychosocial support 

 

The Role of the NDIS 

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is the primary source of funding for disability support services in Australia. It provides eligible individuals with funding to access the support they need based on their personal goals and functional needs. 

 

Who Is Eligible for the NDIS? 

To access NDIS funding, an individual must: 

  • Be under 65 years of age when applying 
  • Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa 
  • Have a permanent and significant disability that impacts daily life 
  • Live in an area where the NDIS is available 

 

At MHC, we help families understand eligibility, prepare for NDIS planning meetings, and design support plans that work for your unique circumstances. 

Key Disability Services Available at MHC in Melbourne At My Holistic Care, we take a person-centred approach to disability support—ensuring every service we provide is tailored to the individual’s strengths, preferences, and goals. 

 

Here’s a breakdown of the services we offer: 

Assistance with Personal Care 

We support individuals with personal hygiene, dressing, grooming, and mobility. Our carers treat every participant with dignity, respect, and sensitivity. 

Household Tasks and Gardening 

We help maintain a clean, safe, and enjoyable living environment by assisting with light cleaning, laundry, and garden care—helping your loved one feel more independent at home. 

Meal Preparation 

Our team assists with grocery shopping, meal planning, and cooking to ensure nutritious, tailored meals that meet individual dietary needs and cultural preferences.

Travel and Transport Assistance 

We provide reliable transport solutions so participants can attend appointments, social events, or community programs safely and on time. 

Home Modifications 

Creating a safe and accessible home is critical. Our team works with professionals to assess, plan, and implement modifications that support daily function and independence. 

Community Participation & Social Engagement 

We encourage individuals to engage with their communities—be it through hobbies, volunteering, education, or recreation. Social connection is a key component of wellbeing. 

Allied Health Services 

From occupational therapy and physiotherapy to mental health support, we work with trusted health professionals to ensure your loved one’s holistic health is nurtured. 

 

Navigating the NDIS with Confidence 

The NDIS process can seem confusing at first, but with the right guidance, families can unlock meaningful support. Here’s how MHC helps you through the journey: 

✳️ Support Coordination 

Our Support Coordinators assist in implementing your NDIS plan—helping you find the right service providers, setting goals, managing service agreements, and ensuring your supports are working well together. 

✳️ Plan Management

If paperwork and budget tracking sound overwhelming, our Plan Managers take care of it for you—handling invoices, keeping you on budget, and ensuring providers are paid on time. 

 

What Makes MHC Different? 

At My Holistic Care, we believe that true support starts with listening. Every participant is unique, and so is their care journey. That’s why we offer: 

  • Flexible services tailored to your goals 
  • Compassionate, qualified staff who work closely with families and allied health professionals 
  • A holistic, person-focused approach that integrates physical, emotional, and social wellbeing 
  • Clear communication and transparency so you’re never in the dark about your care 

Whether your loved one is living with a physical, intellectual, or psychosocial disability, we’re here to help them achieve their full potential—and support you as a family every step of the way. 

Tips for Families New to the Disability Support System If you’re new to this space, here are a few practical tips: 

  1. Start with your goals. What do you want your loved one to achieve: independence, social engagement, better health? 
  2. Keep documentation ready. Medical history, assessments, and current support are important when applying for the NDIS. 
  3. Ask questions. No question is too small. The more informed you are, the better decisions you’ll make. 
  4. Choose providers that align with your values. Trust and communication are essential in this journey. 
  5. Take care of yourself too. Caring for a loved one with a disability can be demanding, don’t hesitate to access respite or family support services. 

 

Final Thoughts 

Finding the right disability support services in Melbourne doesn’t have to be confusing or stressful. With a clear understanding of what’s available and a supportive partner like My Holistic Care, you can confidently navigate this journey and focus on what truly matters— empowering your loved one to thrive. Contact My Holistic Care today and let us help you build a personalised care plan that reflects your family’s needs, goals, and values.