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NDIS INFORMATION
Are you planning to apply for the NDIS and looking to understand your plan, who can assist you, and how your funding works? This page outlines everything you need to know.
The NDIS, or National Disability Insurance Scheme, is designed to ensure that Australians with disabilities receive the support they need. These services empower individuals to reach their goals, engage with their community, and succeed in a career they enjoy
AM I ELIGIBLE FOR THE NDIS?
To be eligible for the NDIS, you must meet the following criteria within these three categories:
AGE
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Be between 7 and 65 years old.
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Under 7 years old? You’ll access support through the early childhood approach, a system specifically designed to meet the needs of young children.
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Over 65 years old? The NDIS is not available beyond this age, but you may be directed to the aged care support system, which works alongside the NDIS to provide appropriate assistance.
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Not eligible due to residency? You may qualify for the QLD Government Disability program. We are able to provide support if this option better suits your eligibility.
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RESIDENCY
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The NDIS is only available to those who live in Australia and have Australian residency:
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Australian Citizens
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People who live in Australia
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Permanent Visa Holders
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Protected Special Category Visa Holders
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DISABILITY
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To access the NDIS, your disability generally needs to be permanent, meaning it is unlikely to improve over time.
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In Australia, the NDIS is designed to complement other support systems, such as the healthcare system.
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If you're unsure whether your condition qualifies as permanent, it's best to consult your doctor or specialist for guidance.
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I AM ELIGIBLE! WHAT'S NEXT?
APPLYING FOR THE NDIS
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If you believe you may be eligible, you will need to submit an application through the NDIS, known as an Access Request.
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This is the formal process of requesting NDIS support and confirming that you meet the eligibility criteria.
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Before completing the Access Request, it's important to note:
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A treating professional (such as a doctor or specialist) will need to complete certain sections of the form.
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You will likely need to provide supporting documentation to strengthen your application.​
Once submitted, the NDIS will review your application and inform you of the outcome.
i've submitted my access request, what now?
You'll need to begin preparing for your NDIS planning meeting, a process known as pre-planning. The NDIS introduces a new approach to providing support, so it's crucial to prepare. This will help you understand how it works, how to communicate using NDIS terminology, and how to request the support you need to achieve the best possible outcome.
Pre-planning is the preparation you do before your planning meeting. It may include:
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Collecting any required assessments, diagnoses, and paperwork.
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Identifying the supports you currently use and considering what additional ones you need to live an "regular life."
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Reflecting on your goals and what you hope to achieve, both in the short term and long term.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR NDIS PLAN
Your NDIS plan is your entry point to the NDIS. It contains all the details about the funding you'll receive and how it supports your goals.
Your NDIS Plan is a document that outlines your goals, what you aim to achieve, and the funding you'll need from the NDIS. After meeting with a representative from the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), which manages the NDIS, you'll receive your plan. The funding specified in your plan is considered 'reasonable and necessary' for your support needs.
Each NDIS Plan includes a participant’s statement of goals and aspirations. Your participant statement should share your unique story and give a clear picture of your life situation. It should cover key details such as:
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What your life is like now and what you hope for it to be
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Your living situation
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Your weekly activities
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The important people in your life
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Existing supports, including informal and mainstream supports
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Your goals and aspirations
The participant statement helps the NDIS planner understand the individual, especially if they are non-verbal or unable to attend the meeting. It’s important to carefully consider what to include, and you may want to ask family, friends, or service providers for input.
I UNDERSTAND MY PLAN, NOW WHAT?
STEP 1: SELECT A SERVICE PROVIDER
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It's important to find the right people who can provide the appropriate support. If you have a Support Coordinator, they can assist you in connecting with services in your area. For example, the Endeavour Foundation is a service provider that can help.
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STEP 2: ENSURE THE PROVIDER ALIGNS WITH YOU AND YOUR GOALS /NEEDS
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After finding a service provider, it’s important to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in your choice. We suggest taking a tour, doing a trial, or engaging in an activity that will help you feel at ease. This is the perfect time to ask any questions you may have.
STEP 3: SIGN A SERVICE AGREEMENT
A service agreement is a document that details the supports you'll receive. It ensures that everyone is aligned and protects both you and the service provider.
WHO ARE THE PEOPLE I NEED ON MY TEAM?
Your NDIS team consists of the people who will guide you through the NDIS and ensure you receive the right supports. The members of your team will vary based on your individual needs and circumstances.
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Parents, friends, gaurdian and family
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Support Coordinator
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Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
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Service Provider
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Plan Manager unless you're self managed
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Health Specialists - Physio, Occupational Therapist, GP, Psychologist, Psychiatrist, Behavioural Specialist etc
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