Queensland Community Support Scheme
The Queensland Community Support Scheme (QCSS) provides low intensity supports to assist you to live independently, increase connections and participate in your local community, thereby reducing social isolation.
QCSS may be of assistance if you are affected by circumstances that impact your ability to live independently at home or participate in the community.
QCSS can assist to:
- improve your capacity to self-manage and live more independently in your home
- reduce social isolation through opportunities to connect with others and participate in your local community
- link you with formal and informal supports and services in your community to best address your needs.
Eligibility
You may be eligible for the QCSS if you are:
- under 65 years old (or under 50 years old for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people), and
- not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
If you require support due to an acute illness—including nursing, convalescent care, post-acute cure and support, palliative care, or rehabilitation support—please call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84), your regular GP, or your local Hospital and Health Service for support services.
What support is available?
The QCSS can help you to build or improve skills and connections in the community to increase your independence in:
- visiting shopping, banking or postal services
- finding and attending recreational activities, such as local social groups or the library
- finding and linking to other supports, services or activities.
It can also help you to build or strengthen the skills and capabilities to help manage at home including:
- planning and preparing meals
- household chores
- personal care, such as showering and dressing
- essential yard maintenance to ensure safety in access and mobility around the external environment of the home.
How you can access QCSS
Step 1—Check your eligibility
You may be eligible for QCSS, if you are:
- under 65 years old, or under 50 years old for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
- not eligible for the NDIS.
If you answer ‘yes’ to both requirements above, you are eligible to apply.
Step 2—Apply for QCSS
Contact the QCSS Access Point. Their assessors will review your eligibility and assess your needs by talking to you about your daily living challenges and personal goals:
- telephone 1800 600 300 or (07) 3028 9360
- register online
- email QCSSaccesspoint@ozcare.org.au.
You don't need a referral to apply for the QCSS.
If you're eligible, QCSS Access Point assessors will then talk to you about how you are coping with daily living, accessing your community and the supports you need.
