The National Disability Insurance Scheme explained
The National Disability Insurance Scheme — known as the NDIS — is an Australian Government program that provides funding and support to Australians living with a permanent and significant disability. It was introduced in 2013 and is now one of the largest social programs in Australian history, supporting over 650,000 participants nationwide.
The NDIS is managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and is available to eligible Australians under the age of 65 who have a permanent disability that significantly affects their ability to take part in everyday activities.
Key fact: The NDIS is not means-tested. Eligibility is based on your disability and how it affects your life — not your income or savings.
What does the NDIS fund?
The NDIS funds support and services that are "reasonable and necessary" to help participants achieve their goals and live more independently. This can include:
- Personal care and support at home
- Therapy services — physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychology
- Assistive technology — wheelchairs, communication devices, home modifications
- Support coordination — help navigating and managing your NDIS plan
- Community participation and social activities
- Supported accommodation and respite care
- Transport assistance
- Capacity building — skills and training to increase independence
Who is eligible for the NDIS?
To be eligible for the NDIS you generally need to:
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Special Category Visa holder
- Be under 65 years of age when you first apply
- Have a permanent disability caused by an impairment
- Require support to carry out daily activities because of your disability
If you are over 65, you may be eligible for support through the aged care system rather than the NDIS.
The three types of NDIS funding
Core Supports
Day-to-day support like personal care, community access and consumables. Most flexible funding.
Capital Supports
Higher-cost items like assistive technology, home modifications and supported accommodation.
Capacity Building
Supports to build independence and skills — including therapy, support coordination and employment.
Support Coordination
Help understanding and using your NDIS plan effectively, and connecting with providers.
How do I apply for the NDIS?
You can apply for the NDIS by:
- Calling the NDIS on 1800 800 110
- Visiting your local NDIS office
- Submitting an Access Request Form online at ndis.gov.au
You will need supporting evidence from your treating health professionals confirming your disability and its impact on your daily life. The NDIA will then assess your eligibility and, if approved, develop an NDIS plan with you.
What is a registered NDIS provider?
A registered NDIS provider is an organisation or individual that has been approved by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to deliver supports and services to NDIS participants. Registered providers must meet strict quality and safety standards.
Some participants can also use unregistered providers for certain supports, depending on how their plan is managed. If you self-manage your NDIS funds, you have the most flexibility in choosing providers.
How do I find an NDIS provider?
You can find registered NDIS providers through:
- NDISFind — search our free directory by location, category and name
- The official NDIS provider finder at ndis.gov.au
- Your Support Coordinator, who can recommend and connect you with suitable providers
- Local Area Coordinators (LACs) who can help you navigate the system
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