Help for children with developmental concerns 

GPs, who have young patients (aged 0-6 years) with development concerns, are encouraged to connect with UnitingCare, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Early Childhood Partner for the Gold Coast.  

UnitingCare is the Early Childhood Partner for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in the Gold Coast service area, which includes the Gold Coast and Hinterland. Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) can offer a range of supports for families with a child aged 0-6 years who has either a disability or a developmental delay. The types of supports offered will be different for every child and their family according to their individual needs.

The referral process is easy and wait times are short. Further information about the referral process can be found here. GPs can also refer patients by calling 0427 084 280 or by providing the patient with a generic practice referral.
The types of support that UnitingCare ECEI can provide are:

• Information regarding early childhood development and available services
• Referral to mainstream and community services
• The determination of appropriate supports and services to achieve outcomes for your child
• Short term ECEI supports
• When required, assistance to access the NDIS

What is ECEI?

ECEI is funded by the NDIS and can offer a range of supports for children aged 0 to 6 years with developmental delay or disability and their families.

What is the aim of ECEI?

The aim of ECEI is to provide parents and families with the knowledge, skills and support to optimise their child’s development and ability to participate in family, early childhood education and care settings, and in broader community life.

Who can benefit from ECEI?

A child aged 0 to 6 years who has either:

• a developmental delay which is the substantial reduction in functional capacity in one or more of the following; Self-care, Receptive and expressive language, Cognitive development, Motor development; or result of an impairment and causes substantial functional limitations and who requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary service response; or
• a disability; and
• lives in the Gold Coast service area

Further information regarding ECEI can be found at the following website: NDIS Website ECEI Page at www.ndis.gov.au/ecei. You can also email eceiadminrobina@uccommunity.org.au or phone 0427 084 280.