How the NDIS works

How it works

The NDIS is Australia’s first national Scheme for people with disability. It provides funding directly to individuals.

What is the NDIS?

There are around 4.3 million Australians who have a disability. Within the next five years the NDIS will provide an estimated 500,000 Australians who have permanent and significant disability with funding for supports and services. For many people, it will be the first time they receive the disability support they need.

What is the NDIS

Checking your eligibility

Answer some simple questions to see if you may be able to apply for the NDIS. These questions are just a guide, the final decision about eligibility is up to the NDIA.

Eligibility checklist

How do I apply?

If you think you are eligible for the NDIS, you can:

contact your local NDIS Office or local NDIS partner and ask them to support you to connect with local disability supports or apply to the NDIS if eligible.
phone the NDIS on 1800 800 110 to be supported to apply to the NDIS.

If you do not have access to a partner in your area, we recommend you contact the National Contact Centre on 1800 800 110 to be supported to apply to the NDIS.

Applying for the NDIS

If you are eligible for the NDIS and have received an ‘access decision’ letter, the next step is creating your NDIS plan.

Creating your plan

Your plan is a written agreement worked out with you. Everyone's plan is different. We will ask questions about how you are going in different areas of your life, what goals you would like to pursue and what kind of help and support you need. This will help us to develop a plan that provides the right support for you.

Creating a plan

Using your funding

Once you have your plan, there are people who will help you start it. Find out the different types of budgets, and how to use the myplace portal.

Using your funding

Changing your plan

Your plan reassessment is the opportunity to check your supports are working for you and they are helping you pursue your goals.

Changing your plan