What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is Australia's national scheme for funding support for people with permanent and significant disability. Instead of services being rationed, each eligible participant receives an individual, funded plan built around their own goals — giving you choice and control over the support you use.
Who is the NDIS for?
Broadly, the NDIS is for Australians under 65 at the time they apply, who are citizens, permanent residents or hold a Protected Special Category Visa, and who have a permanent and significant disability (or who would benefit from early intervention). Eligibility is assessed against the NDIS access criteria — it's always worth checking the current rules on the official NDIS channels or asking a provider to point you in the right direction.
How do I apply for the NDIS?
You start by making an access request. You can call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 to begin over the phone, or complete an Access Request Form. You’ll be asked for proof of identity, age and residency, and for evidence of your disability from a treating health professional — a GP, specialist or allied health practitioner who knows your situation. The NDIA then assesses your request against the access criteria and lets you know the outcome, usually within 21 days. If you’re not sure where to begin, a Local Area Coordinator can help you gather what you need — and we’re happy to point you in the right direction too.
How an NDIS plan works
Once you're eligible, you'll work through a planning conversation about your goals, your daily life and the support you need. The result is a funded NDIS plan. Plans are reviewed periodically so your funding keeps pace with your circumstances and goals.
The three budgets
NDIS funding is grouped into three budgets:
- Core supports — everyday assistance, the most flexible budget (daily living, social and community participation)
- Capacity Building — building skills and independence, including support coordination
- Capital — equipment, assistive technology and home modifications
How providers and support workers fit in
Registered providers deliver the supports in your plan — support work, community participation and support coordination. You choose who you work with, and with a good provider you should meet your worker before supports start. If you'd like help understanding what your plan can fund, a support coordinator can walk you through it.
How to get started
If you have a plan and you're ready to put it into action, or you just want to talk through your options, send a referral — it takes about three minutes and we'll be in touch the same business day.