Dear
Practitioners
We have received queries about the
recent release of information by the Commonwealth Government in relation to the
trial of the national provider of Goods Equipment & Assistive Technology
(GEAT) and the intersect with our State funded programs.
While the Commonwealth Government has
contracted six providers to the GEAT panel including the Statewide Equipment
Program (SWEP), we understand that Indigo Australasia has been chosen as the
national provider under the outlet name Australian GEAT2GO to supply, install
and maintain a range of assistive technology items.
Our understanding at this point is
that those people who are eligible to access GEAT supports through the
Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) will also continue to be eligible to
access the Victorian Aids & Equipment Program (VA&EP).
Please refer to your local ACAS
provider for further information about this program or see attached link:
Please also note, SWEP has been
reviewing the way we provide 'low-cost' (<$250) supports to our consumers.
You may have noticed that these requests are funded more quickly now through
the VA&EP. We are working through clearing any low-cost applications that
are still on our waitlists, so to ensure services across the State and
Commonwealth funded programs are not duplicated, please inform SWEP if you have
lodged applications with GEAT for requests that you have also submitted to
SWEP.
If you have any queries please email swep@bhs.org.au