If you or your loved one lives with disability, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may be able to help. Before you apply, it helps to know the NDIS eligibility requirements.
Here's who can apply, what the NDIS looks for and how the application process works.
Who can apply for the NDIS?
To be eligible, you need to meet the age and residence requirements. You also need to meet the disability requirements, the early intervention requirements, or both.
Age
You must be younger than 65 when your completed application reaches the NDIS.
If you're turning 65 soon, contact the NDIS so they can help you apply in time. If you're 65 or older, aged care services through My Aged Care may be the place to start.
Residence
You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category visa. That visa is only for some New Zealand citizens.
You also need to live in Australia and spend most of your time here.
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You may meet the disability requirements if:
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Your disability is caused by one or more impairments that are likely to be permanent
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Your impairments substantially affect your ability to do daily life activities
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Your impairments affect your social life, or your ability to work or study
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You're likely to need NDIS supports for your whole life
Early intervention
You may also be eligible under the early intervention requirements. This applies if you have an impairment that's likely to be permanent, and early supports will reduce your future needs.
Children younger than 9
Children younger than 9 and their families are supported through the NDIS early childhood approach. It helps children younger than 6 with developmental delay, or younger than 9 with disability.
The NDIS has a full guide on how to check your eligibility.
How to apply for the NDIS
Step 1: Talk to an NDIS partner
NDIS partners are local organisations that help people apply. For people aged 9 to 64, it's a local area coordinator, who explains the process and the evidence you'll need.
Use the NDIS office finder to see if there's a partner near you. You can also call the NDIS on 1800 800 110.
Step 2: Gather your evidence
You'll need information and evidence from your treating health professional. This might include assessments, reports or written statements about how your disability affects your daily life.
You'll also need 3 identity documents. With your consent, the NDIS can check your age and residence through your Centrelink record.
Step 3: Complete and send your application
Your NDIS partner can help you complete your application and send it for you. You can also fill in an access request form yourself.
To send it on your own, use the NDIS online service hub, post it or visit a local office.
Step 4: Wait for a decision
The NDIS will tell you if you're eligible within 90 days of getting your application and all your evidence.
If you're not eligible
The NDIS will send you a letter explaining why. If you don't agree, you can ask for an internal review within 3 months of getting the decision.
There's no limit on applications, so you can apply again if your situation changes or you have new evidence.
An NDIS partner can also connect you with community and other government services in your area.
Talk to us about NDIS support
At HomeCaring, we're a registered NDIS provider, and your supports are led by people who live and work in your community.
Once you have an NDIS plan, tell us about your goals and the help you need day to day. We'll talk you through the NDIS supports we can offer. Reach out to our Care Specialists on 1300 875 377.
