What is the NDIS?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a national scheme that revolutionises the way people with disabilities get the supports and services needed to achieve their goals.

With more choice and control over how, when and where supports are provided, the NDIS puts you at the centre of the decision-making process about your life.

The NDIS provides funding for “reasonable and necessary“ supports and people with a permanent and significant disability including Early Childhood Early Intervention supports for children aged 0-6. The types of services and supports are diverse and based on the goals of each NDIS participant.

You decide how supports will help you achieve your goals in areas such as independence, community involvement, education, employment and health and wellbeing.

A young woman holding flowers up to another woman's face

Benefits of the NDIS.

The NDIS takes a lifetime approach, supporting you today and for the future, with a focus on improving outcomes throughout your life.

It can provide you with funding for supports and services as well as connect you to information and supports provided by other organisations and government agencies.

Financial help to cover some costs associated with your disability
Choice and control over the supports you get and how you spend your NDIS funds
Built in flexibility means the supports you get can change depending on your needs
A national system that is now available in every state and territory
An NDIS Plan based on your specific needs.

How does the NDIS work?

For eligible participants, the NDIS provides a package of funding split across several different categories. The funding is intended to help you achieve your goals.

Here’s a brief overview of the steps you might go through to access NDIS funding:

Determine eligibility – see NDIS eligibility for details.
Complete an Access Request and supply supporting information. “Access Request” is the term used for completing an application to join the NDIS.
Get prepared for your first NDIS Plan meeting. Get your free Leap in! NDIS Plan Meeting Checklist.
Attend your NDIS Plan meeting.
Receive your first NDIS Plan.

The NDIS works with you to develop an NDIS Plan which outlines your goals and the types of support you need. Your plan may go for one year or longer, depending on the types of goals you have and how often your support needs are likely to change.

Funding is split into three categories. Some funding can be used flexibly and without a quote while other funding requires a quote and must be spent on the specific item outlined in your NDIS Plan.

Who manages the NDIS?

The NDIS is administered throughout Australia by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), an independent statutory authority set up to implement the NDIS.