Summary

Getting an NDIS plan enables you to access the professional tools, people and services you need to live a fulfilling life, on your own terms.

Getting an NDIS plan is a critical step that enables you to gain access to the professional tools, people and services you need to live a fulfilling life, on your own terms.

As a person living with a disability, your journey and destination will be as unique as you are. That’s why here in Australia the National Disability Insurance Scheme (or NDIS as we call it) has been developed to help you.

The NDIS is a government-funded initiative that connects people living with a disability with everything you need to live independently and gives loved ones and carers peace of mind knowing extra support is in place.

For some, the process of getting an NDIS plan can be confusing which is why we’ve developed this handy guide to unpack each step.

 

Step 1:  Check if you’re eligible for an NDIS plan

 

Before applying for an NDIS plan, you must be eligible. To find out if you or your loved one is, complete this simple checklist:

 

Are you between the ages of 7 and 65?

 

You must be younger than 65 years old on the day you apply. If you’ve missed this deadline, you might be able to access government-funded aged care services with My Aged Care. 

If a child you care for is younger than seven years old, the NDIS early childhood approach provides children living with a disability and their families with early intervention support, so they can get the best start in life.

 

Do you live in Australia and are you an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Category visa holder?

 

Is your disability caused by an impairment or likely to be permanent?

 

The NDIS will require evidence that your disability significantly decreases your functional capacity (or how you go about your daily life) as well as your ability to work, study or engage in social activities. There is more information on how to obtain this information in the next section.

 

Do you use specialised equipment because of your disability?

 

This may include equipment to help you complete daily tasks like assistive technology for communication, learning and the organising your life. Or modifications to your home, such as ramps and rails.

 

Step 2: Apply for an NDIS plan

 

Becoming an NDIS participant can open many doors for you and your support network. 

You could participate in more community activities, gain and maintain new employment, become more independent and work towards that goal you’ve had in mind but may not have thought possible. With an NDIS plan, the possibilities are endless!

To begin the NDIS application process, you can either:

• Call 1800 800 110 and apply over the phone.
• Complete this online application form, or
• Get in touch with your Local Area Coordinator, who can help you understand all the requirements and be your point of contact throughout the entire process.
• Or call us on 1800 968 775 and we can guide you through the process. We help lots of people just like you to explain the process and offer guidance every step of the way.

There are a few documents that you’ll need to support your application. Ask a family member, loved one or trusted friend to help with this if required.

You will need to provide documentation to prove your identity and Australian citizenship or residency status.

Then you’ll need to provide evidence of your impairments. Your treating professional, such as your doctor, specialist, or allied health service provider, will need to complete section two of the application form.

Your treating professional must be someone who: 

• Has worked with you for a minimum of six months
• Is the most appropriate type of professional to give evidence. For example, if you have cerebral palsy, you would ask your occupational therapist, physiotherapist and/or paediatrician to provide evidence.
• Is qualified and registered in their area of practice with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency or relevant professional authority.

Once your application has been submitted, it will take around 21 days to find out the outcome. The NDIS will contact you to tell you if you have been successful or not. When you have received this correspondence, the next step is to create your NDIS plan.

 

Step 3: Create your NDIS plan

 

Your NDIS plan will connect you with the services and resources specific to your needs and goals, so you can live your life your way.

To work out what supports are best suited to your needs, the NDIS will arrange a planning meeting with you. During this session, an NDIS representative will chat to you about your likes and dislikes, how you enjoy spending your time, and help you to define some short and long term goals.

Setting clear and achievable goals is important to your physical and mental wellbeing as an NDIS participant. They give you and your service providers defined markers to track and measure your progress, just like goal posts!

 

What funding does an NDIS plan provide?

 

Funding is allocated according to the goals you set in your NDIS planning meeting. It is categorised into three different areas:

• Core supports: Consumables, daily hygiene activities, community participation and transport (if you’re unable to drive or catch public transport)
• Capacity building: Plan management services, employment, health and wellbeing (exercise and nutrition therapies), home living (e.g. short term accommodation), relationships
• Capital support: Assistive technology for mobility, personal care, communication, home modifications.

 

NDIS supports for your carers

 

Getting an NDIS plan can also unlock supports for those who care for you. Because it can be challenging to care for a loved one with a disability while balancing their own needs and commitments.

Supports like respite care can give your carer a well-deserved break and allow you to spend time away from your usual routine to enjoy new experiences.

 

Get the support you need today

 

The NDIS website has a catalogue of handy resources that can show you how to apply for an NDIS plan and help you understand all you need to know about the NDIS.

Whether you’re at the beginning of your NDIS journey, or a longstanding participant, we’re always here to help you.

Get in touch with our friendly team of professional Plan Managers who can support and guide you, no matter what stage you’re at.