Introduction

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) allows people with a disability under the age of 65 to access funding for reasonable and necessary supports. Funding is given to the participant or their parent/guardian, and they choose which providers supply the funded goods and services, and disability supports.

NDIS funding “can provide people with disability with information and connections to services in their communities such as doctors, sporting clubs, support groups, libraries and schools, as well as information about what support is provided by each state and territory government” (NDIS, 2020).

People with a disability now have more options to participate and be a part of their community through learning, working, accessing supports, participating in community events, etc. and they no longer need to rely solely on the Disability Support Pension (DSP) or other mainstream disability services organisation.

The NDIS has brought positive changes to the way disability support services are accessed and funded; people with a disability now have choice and control over the administration of their support services.

How the NDIS Works

The NDIS is managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). The NDIS works according to the following process:

  1. Assessing eligibility: This involves using the Eligibility Checklist to answer some simple questions to assess your eligibility for NDIS funding. These questions are just a guide, and the final decision is made by the NDIA.
  1. Applying for the NDIS: If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can ask to become a participant by completing an Access Request Form or calling 1800 800 110 to make an Access Request over the phone.
  1. Receiving an “access decision” letter from the NDIA.
  1. Creating your NDIS Plan.
  1. Using your plan.
  1. Reviewing your plan and goals. 

How Do I Qualify for NDIS Funding? 

NDIS funding can be claimed by individuals who:

  • Are aged under 65;
  • Are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, permanent visa holder or Special Category Visa holder; and

Before you apply for NDIS funding, use the Eligibility Checklist to assess eligibility. If you are eligible, you will then need to apply for NDIS funding.

To maximise your chances of having a successful application, you must answer all the questions on the Access Request Form and provide good evidence of your disability or child’s disability.

Providing good evidence of disability will support the NDIA to decide about your eligibility for NDIS funding. Good evidence is:

  • Recent;
  • Describes previous treatments and outcomes, future treatment options and expected outcomes of those treatments (NDIS, 2019).

Your treating health professional can provide evidence by:

  • Providing existing reports, assessments or letters that show the impact of your disability (Ibid.).

Your complete Access Request along with the supporting documents will be assessed by the NDIA, and you will receive an “access decision” letter. Once you are approved, you can then create your NDIS Plan.

If you are not eligible for NDIS, you may be eligible for other types of supports. A full list of alternative supports can be accessed here. Also, if your Access Request is denied and your disability progresses over time, you can apply for a new Access Request after at least three months.

How We Can Help 

Integrity Disability Hub is a registered NDIS provider, and we are thrilled to offer high-quality disability support services to our valued clients and support eligible participants in their quest to empower themselves and fulfil their aspirations! 

We can help you by discussing eligibility with you, assisting you with the application process, and providing end-to-end guidance for the planning and execution of your support package. Contact us today.

References 

NDIS. (2019). Providing evidence of your disability. Retrieved from https://bit.ly/3esRaVQ

_____. (2020). What is the NDIS? Retrieved from https://bit.ly/2Zo0uG2