Dear Practitioners
We have recently received some enquiries
regarding home modifications funding in relation to home access points.
Under the Victorian Aids & Equipment
Program (VA&EP) Guidelines, it has always been intended to provide a safe
entry for one access point only to the dwelling, when applying funding for
ramps, step modifications (for two or more steps including platform steps) and
rails. Where a request is to allow access to a garage for means of accessing
the community, this will also be seen as one access point to the dwelling.
In a government funded subsidy program
where demand exceeds available budget, we are unable to modify more than one
access point for any one consumer. In
the next iteration of the VA&EP Guidelines we will ensure clarity about
home modification subsidy for one access point only.
Approval in Principle
To assist with determining eligibility for funding subsidy
assistance, when submitting a home modification application, please provide a
photo or basic drawing of the area to be modified and written detail of the
modification being requested (i.e. access point, bathroom, level entry/step
less shower or platform steps at rear access 900mmx500mm).
And just a reminder the consumers living in residential and
accommodation services owned or operated by non-profit organisation, businesses,
trust funds or any other type of organisations, they are not eligible to apply
for funding for home modifications.
If you have any queries please email swep@bhs.org.au