FAQs: All your NDIS eligibility questions answered.

With the NDIS now available in all Australian states and territories, here at Leap in! we are responding to a lot of questions about NDIS eligibility.

While eligibility is assessed by the NDIS, we thought we would take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions so you have all the answers in one place.

Is the NDIS means or asset tested?

The NDIS is not “means” or asset tested. That means your income and assets you own such as investments or a home, are not taken into account when determining eligibility.

The NDIS was established so anyone who meets the eligibility criteria can access support to help them live their best life regardless of their income or assets.

What are the main eligibility requirements?

You may be eligible for the NDIS if you meet the following criteria:

• Are aged between 7 and 65 years
• Live in Australia, are an Australian citizen or have a Permanent or Special Category Visa
• You need support from a person or use special equipment because of a permanent and significant disability
• You need supports now to reduce your future needs.

Find out if you might be eligible by completing the short NDIS quiz Am I eligible.

My child is under 7 years old. How does the NDIS work for him/her?

The Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) approach supports children aged 0-6 years who have a developmental delay or disability, and their families/carers. The ECEI approach supports families to help children develop the skills they need to take part in daily activities and achieve the best possible outcomes throughout their life. More information in our article Early Childhood Early Intervention.

I am over 65. Can I access the NDIS?

You must be under the age of 65 to access the NDIS. If you are over 65, support and information is available from other government services including My Aged Care. Take a look at the Support for people with disabilities webpage.

I don’t currently receive any disability supports. Can I apply for the NDIS?

Yes, if the NDIS is available in your area. Find out by checking the guide available on the NDIS website.

Then you’ll need to make what’s called an “access request”, a formal request to participate in the NDIS. It is important to complete all the information required including supplying recent evidence of your disability and its impact on your life from a treating medical professional. Find out more details about access requests and How to apply.

The NDIS will then determine if you are eligible for the NDIS.

It looks like I may be eligible for the NDIS. What happens next?

The NDIS is required to respond to access requests within 21 days. If your application is approved, the next step is to attend a planning meeting where your NDIS Plan will be created.

Leap in! helps people prepare for their NDIS Plan meeting every day with our NDIS Planning App (don’t have the free app, access our web app). If you’re after a quick reference, then we have a free NDIS Plan Meeting Checklist also available from our website.

What types of supports does the NDIS cover?

This is a common question. It’s important to know what the NDIS might cover before you apply so you know if it might suit your needs.

Every NDIS Plan is unique to you and your life so the types of supports that can be funded are quite varied. Find out more about What type of supports are funded by the NDIS.

I need help understanding what all the terms mean.

We get it! There are so many NDIS-specific terms that can be difficult to get your head around. Here at Leap in! we’ve created a handy glossary of terms so you know exactly what it all means. Get the NDIS glossary.

Leap in! can help you get started.

While the NDIS determines eligibility, we’re happy to help with general advice and support to get you started.

Call us on 1300 05 78 78 to speak with one of our plan managers if you have further questions.