Understanding the DSOA (Disability Support for Older Australians) Program

The following resource outlines everything you need to know about the Disability Support for Older Australians (DSOA) Program—what it is, who it helps, how to access it, benefits, challenges, and its relationship with NDIS and migration in Australia.

What is the DSOA Program?

The Disability Support for Older Australians (DSOA) Program is a government initiative that provides support to older people with disabilities who are not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The program delivers essential disability services to maintain participants’ quality of life, independence, and social inclusion.

Who is the DSOA for?

• Australians aged 65 years and over (or 50 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who were receiving state/territory-managed disability supports at the time they became age-ineligible for the NDIS (before 1 July 2019).

• People with permanent and significant disabilities who do not qualify for the NDIS due to their age.

Why Is the DSOA Program Important?

The DSOA bridges a critical gap. When the NDIS was fully rolled out, it became the main support avenue for people under 65 with significant disabilities, but left older people—especially those already receiving support before NDIS—potentially without equivalent services.

The DSOA Program ensures that:

• Older Australians do not lose vital disability supports due to age.
• There’s continuity of care for those who were ineligible for NDIS simply because of when the reform was implemented.
• Australians with disability have support choices as they age.

How Does the DSOA Program Work?

Accessing the DSOA

1. Eligibility Check
   • Must have been receiving “continuing state or territory disability supports” at the time of the NDIS introduction.
   • Age: 65+ (or 50+ for Indigenous Australians).

• Not eligible for NDIS due to age restriction.

2. Application Process
   • Participants are automatically transitioned if they meet criteria.

• People not transitioned should contact their state or territory disability services or the DSOA team within the Department of Social Services (DSS).

3. Assessment
   • Existing service arrangements are generally maintained.

• Needs are regularly reviewed to adjust support as circumstances change.

4. Service Delivery
   • Services are delivered via registered disability support providers.

• State, territory, or Commonwealth agencies coordinate funding and oversight.

What Supports Are Included?

Services under DSOA may include:

• Personal care

• Support coordination
• Household assistance and cleaning
• Transport support

• Respite services
• Social and community participation
• Equipment and assistive technology (limited)

• Clinical or therapy supports (where previously provided)

Key Facts at a Glance

| Age eligibility | 65+ (or 50+ Indigenous) | | Eligibility date | Must have received disability supports before 1 July 2019 | | Application | Through state/territory or DSS |

| Typical duration | Ongoing, while needs persist | | Cost to participant | Similar income-tested fees as before; usually low or nil | | Common professions involved | Support workers, allied health professionals, coordinators |

DSOA and Australian Migration

The DSOA program is not generally available to new migrants. It is tailored for people already part of the state/territory systems prior to NDIS rollout and who became ineligible due to age. Migrants who arrive after this date and are aged 65+ generally do not have access and may rely on aged care or mainstream supports.

Exceptions or similar supports may depend on residency status, humanitarian visa category, or other factors. Newcomers should consult Centrelink, My Aged Care, or DSS for tailored advice.

Key Benefits and Features

• Continuity: Ensures people don’t lose support as they get older.

• Person-Centred: Services are tailored to the individual, just like with NDIS.
• Flexible Delivery: Maintains existing arrangements or adapts to new needs.
• Quality Oversight: Providers are regulated for safety and quality compliance.

• Family Relief: Respite and support coordination ease the load for carers.

Common Challenges and Solutions

| Lack of awareness | DSS and service providers conduct outreach campaigns | | Gaps in support compared to NDIS | Reviews undertaken; participants or carers can advocate | | Navigating dual systems (aged care & DSOA) | Support coordinators/advisors assist with transitions |

| Limited therapy access | Speak to provider—some therapy included if previously | | Changing needs or increased disability | Needs assessments are ongoing—services can be modified | | Complex administration | State/territory contacts and DSOA team offer assistance |

Who Delivers DSOA Supports?

Most services are delivered by:

• Disability support providers (often NDIS-registered)
• Allied health professionals (physios, OTs, speech therapists)

• Support coordinators/planners
• Community/social support workers

Example professions include:

• Support Worker
• Occupational Therapist
• Physiotherapist

• Disability Support Coordinator
• Social Worker

Partial List: Real Life Scenarios

| Scenario | DSOA Involvement |

|-------------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------| | “John” is 73, has had cerebral palsy, and was supported prior to 2019 | Continues with domestic and personal support via DSOA | | “Maria” is