NDIS EXPLAINED
The NDIS, in plain language
The National Disability Insurance Scheme can feel confusing at first. This page walks you through eligibility, applying and funding, one step at a time.
THE BASICS
What the NDIS is
The NDIS is an Australian Government scheme that funds supports for people with a permanent and significant disability. It is run by the National Disability Insurance Agency, or NDIA.
Funding is tied to you, not to a service. You choose the supports that help you reach your goals, and you choose who delivers them. If something is not working, you can change providers.
700+
Australians taking part
100%
Government funded for participants
ELIGIBILITY
Who can apply for NDIS
The NDIA looks at a few things when deciding if you can join. Here is what they generally consider.
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Under 65 at the time you apply
You need to make your first access request before you turn 65. Different supports apply for older Australians.
Australian residency status
You are usually an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or the holder of a Protected Special Category Visa.
A permanent and significant disability
Your disability is likely to be lifelong and it affects everyday activities like moving, learning, talking or self care.
Early intervention needs
Support now may reduce what you need later. This often applies to young children with developmental delay.
Evidence from your treating team
Reports from your doctor or allied health team explain your disability, how long it lasts and its daily impact.
HOW TO APPLY
Applying, step by step
Most people move through four stages. Take your time, and ask for help at any point along the way.
01
Check you are eligible
Read through the age, residency and disability requirements, or use the NDIS checklist to see where you stand.
02
Gather your evidence
Ask your GP, specialist or therapist for reports that describe your disability and how it affects daily life.
03
Make an access request
Call the NDIA or send in an Access Request Form with your evidence. They will write back with a decision.
04
Plan meeting and first plan
You talk through your goals and daily needs. Your first plan sets out the funded supports you can use.
FUNDING
What your plan can fund
Plan funding sits in three budgets. Each one covers a different kind of support, and how flexible it is varies.
01
Core Supports
Help with everyday activities and getting out and about. This budget is usually the most flexible one.
Daily personal care
Community access
Transport
02
Capacity Building
Supports that build your skills and independence over time so you can do more on your own.
Therapy supports
Employment help
Support coordination
03
Capital Supports
Larger one off items and housing costs. This budget is set aside for the exact item approved.
Assistive technology
Home modifications
Specialist housing
PLAN MANAGEMENT
Three ways to manage funds
You decide how your plan money is handled. You can mix these options, and you can change your mind later.
Self-managed
You pay providers directly and keep the receipts. You get the widest choice of who supports you.
BEST FOR
People who want full control and are comfortable with paperwork.
Plan-managed
A plan manager pays your invoices and tracks your budget. You still choose your own providers.
BEST FOR
People who want choice without handling the admin.
NDIA-managed
The NDIA pays your providers for you. You use providers registered with the NDIS Commission.
BEST FOR
People who prefer a simple, hands off setup.
GLOSSARY
Common NDIS terms explained
The NDIS uses a lot of short forms. Here are the ones you are most likely to hear.
SIL
Supported Independent Living
Help with daily tasks in a shared or private home, often with support available around the clock.
SDA
Specialist Disability Accommodation
Purpose built or modified housing for people with very high support or accessibility needs.
STA
Short Term Accommodation
A short stay away from home, including support and meals, sometimes called respite.
MTA
Medium Term Accommodation
A place to stay for up to 90 days while you wait for your long term home.
SC
Support Coordination
A coordinator helps you understand your plan, find providers and connect with the right services.
NDIA
National Disability Insurance Agency
The government agency that runs the NDIS, approves access and creates participant plans.
