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Navigating the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support for people living with a disability depending on their needs. Learn more about the scheme with some advice for accessing the services provided.

What is the NDIS?

The NDIS provides supports and services to help people with a permanent disability reduce the impact it has on their daily life. It helps people:1-5

  • Live more independently
  • Find and maintain employment
  • Be involved in their community
  • Get financial assistance
  • Find services in their local area

What does the NDIS fund?1

  • Support for daily personal activities (e.g. feeding)
  • Transport to enable participation in activities
  • Workplace support to help people maintain or find employment
  • Therapeutic supports including behaviour support
  • Help with household tasks to allow the participant to maintain their home environment
  • Skilled personnel to provide aids or equipment assessment, set up and training
  • Home modification design and construction
  • Mobility equipment, and
  • Vehicle modifications

Steps and advice for applying for the NDIS2-4

  • Find out if you are eligible here
  • Call 1800 800 110 to make an Access Request or complete and submit the Access Request form via email
    • Provide as much detail about your disability as possible and as many supporting documents as required
  • If successful, start preparing your NDIS planning meeting. The plan outlines your goals and the supports you will receive from the NDIS, the community and other government supports to help you achieve those goals
    • Research what you may be eligible for
    • Don’t be afraid to ask for something within reason
    • Clearly explain your ideal support, how you would use the assistance and the difference it would make to your life

If unsuccessful, you may be able to have the decision reviewed. Learn more here.

Learn more about the NDIS
References
  1. NDIS. Supports funded by the NDIS. https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/
    supports-funded-ndis    . Accessed: April 2020.
  2. Calm and Connected. Navigating the NDIS. http://calmandconnected.com.au/navigating-the-ndis. Accessed: April 2020.
  3. Chorus. How to get help from the NDIS and navigate the system. https://chorus.org.au/navigate-the-ndis. Accessed: April 2020.
  4. Careers Australia. What is the NDIS. https://www.carersaustralia.com.au/ndis-and-carers/what-is-the-ndis. Accessed: April 2020.
  5. Department of Social Services. About people with disability in Australia. https://www.dss.gov.au/disability-and-carers/supporting-people-with-disability/about-people-with-disability-in-australia. Accessed: April 2020.