What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is Australia's way of providing support for people with a permanent and significant disability. It provides funding directly to individuals, giving you more choice and control over the support you receive.
Understanding the NDIS
A Scheme Built for You
The NDIS is a government-funded program that helps Australians with disability access the supports they need to live their best life. Unlike traditional disability services, the NDIS puts you in control—you choose your providers, decide what supports you need, and manage your funding your way.
Whether you're looking for support workers, therapy services, equipment, or help building your skills, the NDIS can fund supports that are "reasonable and necessary" for your disability-related needs.
Eligibility
Who is Eligible?
To access the NDIS, you generally need to meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be under 65 years of age when you apply.
- Residency: You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
- Disability: You have a permanent and significant disability that affects your ability to take part in everyday activities.
What does "Permanent and Significant" mean?
Not sure if you're eligible? Contact the NDIA directly or speak with one of our team members who can guide you through the process.
Funding Categories
What Does the NDIS Fund?
The NDIS funds "reasonable and necessary" supports that are related to your disability. These are generally grouped into three main categories:
Core Supports
Help with everyday activities, consumables, and transport. This is flexible funding that can be used across different support categories.
- Assistance with daily life
- Consumables and aids
- Transport assistance
- Social and community participation
Capacity Building
Investment in your future independence, building skills and capabilities to help you achieve your goals.
- Therapy services (OT, physio, speech)
- Training and skill development
- Support coordination
- Plan management
Capital Supports
Funding for higher-cost assistive technology, equipment, or home modifications to improve your independence and safety.
- Assistive technology devices
- Home modifications
- Vehicle modifications
- Specialized equipment
What the NDIS Does NOT Fund
The NDIS is designed to work alongside other government systems, not replace them.
- Living Costs
Rent, food, utilities, and other day-to-day expenses.
- Health Services
Doctors, hospital care, medication covered by Medicare.
- Education
School fees, uniforms, textbooks, and other education costs.
- Income Support
Centrelink payments, pensions, and other income support.
- General Supports
Supports not related to your disability or that don't meet the criteria.
- Illegal Activities
Anything illegal or that poses a risk to you or others.
Getting Started
How to Apply for the NDIS
Check Eligibility
Review the eligibility criteria and gather information about your disability.
Contact NDIA
Call 1800 800 110 or complete an Access Request Form online.
Provide Evidence
Submit medical reports and evidence of how your disability affects you.
Plan Meeting
Attend a planning meeting to discuss your goals and support needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get approved?
- The NDIA aims to make a decision within 21 days of receiving all required information. However, it can take longer if additional evidence is needed.
- Can I change my plan if my needs change?
- Yes! You can request a plan review at any time if your circumstances change. Plans are typically reviewed annually, but you don't have to wait.
- What if I'm not happy with my plan?
- You can request an internal review by the NDIA, or if that doesn't resolve it, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
- Do I have to use registered providers?
- It depends on how your plan is managed. If you're NDIA-managed, you can only use registered providers. Plan-managed and self-managed participants can use both.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help you understand the NDIS and navigate your journey.