Basic NDIS Eligibility Criteria
To access NDIS support, you must meet the following requirements:
Age Requirements
- Be under 65 years of age when you first apply
- Early intervention support available for children under 7 with developmental delay
Residency Status
You must be:
- An Australian citizen, OR
- A permanent resident, OR
- Hold a Protected Special Category Visa
Disability Requirements
Your disability must be:
- Permanent (or likely to be permanent)
- Significant in its impact on your daily activities
- Requiring support or assistance from others or specialised equipment
How NDIS Support Works
Understanding NDIS funding is essential for accessing the right disability support services. The National Disability Insurance Scheme provides funding across three main categories:
- Core Supports: Everyday activities, consumables, and social participation
- Capital Supports: Equipment, home or vehicle modifications
- Capacity Building: Skill development and training
NDIS Management Options
There are three main ways to manage your NDIS funding, each offering different levels of control and support.
Plan-Managed NDIS
Working with a Plan Manager or Support Coordinator allows you to maintain choice while receiving professional support. Under this option:
- A registered Plan Manager handles all financial administration
- You can choose both registered and unregistered providers
- Regular budget updates and financial reports are provided
- Expert guidance helps maximize your funding
- All provider payments and NDIS claiming is managed for you
- No additional cost (funded separately in your NDIS plan)
Self-Managed NDIS
Self-management gives you complete control over your NDIS funding. This option means:
- You handle all financial aspects directly
- Complete freedom in provider choice
- Ability to negotiate rates above NDIS price limits
- Direct payment processing and record keeping
- Full control over service agreements
- Responsibility for maintaining compliance
- No additional cost to your plan
NDIA-Managed
Having the NDIA manage your funding is the most straightforward option:
- Only use NDIS registered providers
- Standard NDIS pricing applies
- NDIA handles all payments directly
- Limited administrative responsibility
- Providers claim payment through the NDIA portal
- No additional cost to your plan
Comparing Your Options
| Feature | Plan-Managed | Self-Managed | NDIA-Managed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provider Choice | Any provider | Any provider | Registered only |
| Price Limits | NDIS prices | Flexible | NDIS prices |
| Administrative Work | Minimal | High | Minimal |
| Financial Support | Yes | No | Yes |
| Budget Control | High | Complete | Limited |
| Professional Guidance | Yes | No | Basic |
Getting Started with NDIS Support
1. Complete Intake Form
Submit your basic information and current support needs. Our team will guide you through the required documentation.
2. Receive Confirmation
We’ll review your submission and confirm receipt within 24 hours.
3. Assessment
Our experienced team will assess your needs and match you with appropriate supports.
4. Start Receiving Supports
Begin accessing your approved supports and services.
Important Notes
- Timeline may vary for participants with complex needs requiring specialised support worker training
- Urgent support requests can receive expedited processing
- We work closely with you throughout the entire process
