What a justice liaison officer does
JLOs are part of the NDIA's justice liaison team. They work with state and territory justice agencies so people with disability do not fall through the gap between the two systems.
- Working with justice services to help people apply for the NDIS
- Helping participants access NDIS supports while in custody
- Planning supports for the transition back into the community
- Responding to enquiries and sorting out barriers between the NDIS and justice services
Who counts as being in the justice system
The NDIA uses a broad definition. You are considered to be in the justice system if you are:
- In custody in a correctional facility, such as a prison, youth detention centre or secure mental health facility
- On remand, awaiting sentencing or following sentencing
- On bail, probation or parole
- Serving a community based order, or on a leave of absence or therapeutic leave order
- Under forensic orders
What the NDIS funds while you are in custody
If you are in custody, the justice system is responsible for your day to day care and support, including supervision, personal care and general supports. The NDIS does not replace that.
The NDIS may still fund some disability specific supports, such as:
- Some assistive technology
- Training for staff in custody about your specific disability support needs
- Capacity building to prepare for release, such as support coordination, a psychosocial recovery coach, therapy or behaviour support related to your disability
Leaving custody
Release is when supports matter most. The NDIS supports list includes short term supports for transition out of a custodial setting. A JLO can work with corrections staff, your support coordinator and you to arrange accommodation support, support workers, therapy and other supports so they start when you leave.
When you are not in custody, including on bail, parole or a community order, the NDIS can fund disability supports, including home and living supports, if they relate to your disability and meet the usual NDIS funding criteria. Supervising and enforcing court and parole orders remains the justice system's job.
Applying for the NDIS from custody
You can apply for the NDIS while you are in the justice system. The usual access requirements apply: age, residence and disability or early intervention requirements. Ask prison health or welfare staff, a lawyer or a disability advocate to contact the NDIA so a JLO can help you gather evidence and lodge your access request.
For support coordinators and providers
Start release planning early, as arranging housing and a support team takes time. Ask the JLO what the NDIA needs and when. Be clear about the line between disability supports and supervising a court or parole order, which belongs to the justice system. Behaviour support practitioners should also read the NDIS Commission's guidance on the justice system and lawful orders.