ADHD and the NDIS is something we are often asked questions about here at Leap in!
About 5% of Australians have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) so it’s no surprise there’s growing interest in whether the NDIS can fund treatment and supports.
But does a diagnosis of ADHD qualify you for the NDIS? No, it doesn’t. It is a little more complex than that. We explore when you might be eligible for the NDIS if you have ADHD and what types of supports that may be available.
What is ADHD?
According to the ADHD Foundation Australia, ADHD is a ‘neurodevelopmental’ condition that can affect brain function. It can impact attention, impulse control and behaviour.
The level of ADHD, its impact on daily life and the types of treatments that may help vary from person to person.
ADHD and NDIS.
On its own, ADHD is not usually covered by the NDIS. That’s because it can be hard to meet the NDIS eligibility criteria for permanent and significant disability based on ADHD alone.
If you have ADHD and are responding well to treatment such as medication, then you’re unlikely to be eligible for the NDIS.
ADHD often exists alongside primary disability types such as autism, intellectual disability, learning disability or global developmental delay. These primary disabilities are usually referred to as the main condition, with ADHD considered a co-occurring condition. If you have one of these primary conditions, you may be more likely to meet the NDIS eligibility requirements.
Is ADHD covered by NDIS? How NDIS eligibility works.
ADHD may be covered by the NDIS if you meet both the eligibility and disability access requirements. In addition to age and residency criteria, you must show that:
- You have a disability caused by a permanent impairment
- The disability substantially reduces your capacity to do daily activities
- You usually require disability-specific supports to participate in daily life
- You’re likely to need support throughout your lifetime.
Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis rather than diagnosis. That means having a diagnosis of ADHD alone does not automatically make you eligible.
For more information check out the Leap in! NDIS Eligibility Guide.
Things to consider before applying for the NDIS.
Before applying for the NDIS, there are a few important things to keep in mind:
- You’re more likely to be eligible if your condition is stable and you have exhausted all other treatment options, confirmed in writing by your doctor
- You’ll need to show how the impairment significantly impacts your daily life
- The NDIS looks at 6 different areas of functional capacity including communication, social interaction and learning. A functional assessment from a qualified doctor or therapist that explains how your life is affected in one or more of these areas can help your application
- Include letters and reports from treating doctors, social workers, family and friends about how the impairment affects your everyday life.
NDIS funding for ADHD.
If you have ADHD and meet the NDIS access requirements, you may receive funding across different NDIS budget categories. These supports will be tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Examples of supports that the NDIS may fund for people with ADHD include:
- Capacity building supports to assist with social skills, community participation, self-management and communication
- Positive behavioural support
- Cognitive therapy to support focus and decision making
- Support workers to assist with daily routines and household tasks
- Assistive technology such as screen readers and speech recognition programs
- Employment supports including workplace assessments, job coaching and help to find and keep a job.
Getting help if you are not eligible for the NDIS.
For children.
If you have concerns about your child with ADHD but are unsure about NDIS eligibility, the Early Childhood Approach (ECA) may assist. The ECA supports
- Children under 6 with developmental delay
- Children under 9 with disability.
A diagnosis is not required and children don’t need to be eligible for the NDIS to get support. The ECA can assist with connections to local services and help you apply for the NDIS if appropriate.
If you have concerns about a child’s development, speak with your doctor, maternal and child health nurse or other health professional. They may refer to an NDIS Early Childhood Partner. You can also contact an Early Childhood Partner directly.
For adults.
The following organisations offer more information, guidance and support for adults with ADHD:
Leap in! is here to help.
If you or someone you care for has an NDIS Plan and needs support to understand the plan, we can help!
For more information about working with Leap in!, email us at crew@leapin.com.au, or call us on 1300 05 78 78.
Originally published 26 June 2020, updated 17th November 2021 and 22 April 2025.
Further reading
NDIS Capacity Building budgets: A closer look