National Disability Insurance Scheme

Understanding Eligibility

The first step is determining whether you meet the NDIS access criteria. Eligibility is based on several key factors: you must be under 65 years old at the time of application, live in Australia as a citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa, and have a permanent and significant disability that impacts your ability to take part in everyday activities. Early intervention supports are available for young children to help reduce the future impact of disability.

Creating Your Individualised NDIS Plan

Once your access request is approved, you will participate in a planning conversation with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC), Early Childhood Partner, or NDIS Planner. In this conversation, you’ll discuss your current supports, living situation, goals, and what you need to pursue greater independence and participation in community life. This results in a tailored plan, outlining the types of supports funded by the NDIS and the goals you aim to achieve over time.

Accessing and Choosing Service Providers

After your NDIS plan is approved, you are empowered to select the service providers that best suit your needs and preferences. These providers deliver the necessary supports, which may include allied health therapies, personal care, community access, supported employment, assistive technology, and daily living skills programs. You have the flexibility to change providers if your circumstances or needs evolve, ensuring you always receive the most appropriate support.

Implementing Your Plan and Reviewing Your Progress

The next step is to put your plan into action. You might manage your own supports, or engage a plan manager or support coordinator to assist you. Regular plan reviews —typically every 12 months — allow you to track your progress, address any changes in your circumstances, and adjust your funding and goals as needed. A plan review is a collaborative process, focusing on celebrating achievements, identifying new challenges, and ensuring your plan continues to reflect your aspirations.

Building Your Capacity, Skills, and Independence

One of the key aims of the NDIS is to not only provide necessary supports but also to empower participants to build skills that enable greater independence, community participation, and economic contribution. Capacity-building supports focus on areas like daily living skills, communication, social participation, education, employment, andimproved relationships. Over time, these supports are designed to reduce reliance on funded supports and enhance self-management, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.