What Is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a federal government program that provides funding and support to Australians under 65 who have a permanent and significant disability. Launched in 2013, the NDIS now supports over 650,000 Australians.
Unlike older block-funded models, the NDIS is person-centred: each participant receives an individualised plan with funding tied to their goals.
Who Is Eligible?
- Age: Under 65 when you first apply
- Residency: Australian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Special Category Visa holder
- Disability: Permanent and significant disability that substantially reduces ability to participate in everyday activities
The NDIS Early Childhood approach covers children under 9 with developmental delay or disability.
How Does the NDIS Work?
Step 1: Access Request - Submit evidence from treating professionals describing your disability and its functional impacts.
Step 2: Planning Meeting - Meet with an NDIA planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to discuss goals and support needs.
Step 3: Your NDIS Plan - The NDIA develops your plan outlining goals, funded supports, and how funding is managed.
Step 4: Implementing Your Plan - Use funding to engage providers. Your plan manager (if applicable) handles payments.
Step 5: Plan Review - Annual reviews let you adjust funding, goals, and supports.
What Does the NDIS Fund?
- Core Supports - Personal care, domestic help, community participation, consumables
- Capacity Building Supports - Support coordination, employment, daily living skills
- Capital Supports - Assistive technology, home and vehicle modifications
NDIS funding must be spent on reasonable and necessary disability-related supports.
What the NDIS Does NOT Fund
- Medical treatments covered by Medicare
- Education supports provided by schools
- Day-to-day living costs unrelated to your disability
- Supports that are not reasonable and necessary
Tips for Getting the Most From Your Plan
- Be specific about your goals - vague goals lead to vague funding
- Bring supporting evidence from your GP, OT, physio, or specialists
- Understand your funding categories - Core is most flexible
- Ask for a support coordinator if your situation is complex
- Keep records and track every dollar spent
- Request an unscheduled review if something is not working
Getting Help
- NDIS website: ndis.gov.au
- NDIS contact centre: 1800 800 110
- Disability Advocacy NSW: free advocacy for people having difficulty with NDIS access
- ReferAus: search local providers and read real reviews from other participants in the Hunter Region