NDIS in Australia: disability support funding and how to apply

What is the NDIS?

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is a federal government program that funds personalised support and services for Australians with permanent and significant disability. It is administered by the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency).

Key differences from older disability support models:

• Funding is individualised — each participant has their own NDIS plan with a budget tailored to their needs.
• Participants choose their own NDIS-registered service providers.
• Eligibility is based on functional impact, not a specific diagnosis name.

Who is eligible?

You must meet all three criteria:

1. Age: Under 65 when you first apply (people aged 65+ access aged care supports instead).
2. Residency: Australian citizen, permanent resident, or holder of a Protected Special Category Visa.
3. Disability criterion: A permanent disability that substantially reduces your ability to perform everyday activities in at least one area: mobility, communication, self-care, learning, economic participation, or social participation.

NDIS does not require a specific diagnosis — it looks at how a condition affects daily function. Autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, severe mental illness and many other conditions can qualify if the functional impact criterion is met.

Temporary visas (subclass 482, 500, 485 etc.) do not qualify for NDIS access.

What can NDIS funding be used for?

An NDIS plan is personalised but typically covers:

• Daily personal activities: showering, dressing, eating, continence support.
• Therapies: physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, psychology.
• Assistive technology: wheelchairs, communication devices, hearing equipment.
• Home modifications: grab rails, ramps, accessible shower fittings.
• Community participation: support workers accompanying to social activities.
• Employment support and training.
• Supported Independent Living (SIL): for people needing 24/7 supported accommodation.

How to apply

1. Contact NDIS: Call 1800 800 110 or visit ndis.gov.au and complete the Access Request process.
2. Complete the Access Request Form (ARF): Describe your disability and how it affects your daily life in concrete terms.
3. Provide evidence from healthcare professionals: Reports from your doctor, therapist or treating hospital documenting functional impact.
4. NDIA reviews your application: The decision process typically takes several weeks to a few months.
5. If approved: Meet with an NDIS Planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to develop your NDIS Plan and set your budget.
6. Activate your plan: Select registered NDIS service providers to deliver supports.

Language support during the application

NDIS supports interpreter access through TIS National (131 450) — request an interpreter when calling NDIS. The NDIA also provides information in multiple languages including Vietnamese at ndis.gov.au.

If you are refused access

If the NDIA determines you do not meet the access criteria, you may:

1. Request an internal review (administrative review within NDIA — free).
2. Appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) if the internal review does not resolve the issue.

Community legal aid services can assist with navigating the review and appeal process.