Getting Started with the NDIS

The Purpose of the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government initiative that provides funding for reasonable and necessary supports to eligible people with permanent and significant disability. The scheme is administered by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). The aim of the NDIS is to support people with disability to live an ordinary life, with greater independence, choice and control over their supports, and improved participation in the community and workforce.

Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all package, the NDIS funds supports based on each person's individual goals and needs. This might include help with everyday activities, therapy, assistive technology, home modifications, community participation, or support to find and keep a job. The scheme is designed to be lifelong, meaning that as a person's needs change over time, their plan can be reviewed and adjusted.

Where to Find Eligibility and Application Information

To access the NDIS, a person must meet certain age, residency and disability requirements. The official NDIS website provides the most accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility criteria and the access request process. You can also contact the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) directly by phone or through a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) partner in your area.

The access process typically involves submitting an Access Request Form, providing evidence of your disability from a treating health professional, and confirming your identity and residency status. It is important to gather supporting documents, such as reports from doctors, specialists or allied health professionals, as these help the NDIA understand the nature and impact of your disability. The official NDIS website has a checklist to help you understand what information you may need before applying.

Preparing Information and Questions

Preparing before an NDIS planning meeting can make a real difference. It helps to think about your daily life, the supports you currently receive, and what you would like to achieve. Consider writing down your goals — these could be about becoming more independent, joining community activities, improving your health and wellbeing, or developing new skills.

It is also useful to gather information about the supports you currently use, any gaps in your support, and how your disability affects your day-to-day life. Statements from family members, carers or support workers can provide valuable context. Preparing a list of questions before your planning conversation ensures you don't forget to raise important matters. You may also wish to bring a family member, friend or advocate to your planning meeting for support.

Understanding Common NDIS Terms

The NDIS uses a range of terms and acronyms that may be unfamiliar at first. Some of the most common include:

• Participant — a person who has been accepted into the NDIS.
• Plan — the written agreement that outlines the funded supports a participant receives.
• Reasonable and necessary — the test the NDIA uses to decide which supports to fund.
• Local Area Coordinator (LAC) — a partner who helps people understand and access the NDIS.
• Supports — the assistance, services or equipment funded through a participant's plan.
• Plan management — how a participant's plan funds are managed (self-managed, plan-managed or NDIA-managed).

Understanding these terms can make conversations with the NDIA and service providers smoother. For a more detailed guide to NDIS terminology, see the resource linked at the end of this page.

What Happens After Receiving a Plan

Once a plan is approved, participants receive a copy of their plan and information about how the funding is managed. If the plan is NDIA-managed, participants choose supports from registered providers. If the plan is plan-managed or self-managed, there is more flexibility in choosing providers, including some unregistered providers.

After receiving a plan, participants can start putting their supports in place. This may involve contacting providers, arranging services, purchasing assistive technology, or accessing community programs. Plans are typically reviewed annually, but a participant can request a review if their circumstances change significantly. It is important to keep records of how supports are being used and to communicate with the NDIA or a plan manager if any issues arise.

Where to Find Official Guidance

The most reliable source of information about the NDIS is the official NDIS website at ndis.gov.au. The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission website at ndiscommission.gov.au provides information about provider quality, safeguards and complaints. The Disability Gateway at disabilitygateway.gov.au is another government resource that connects people with disability, families and carers to information and services.