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NDIS Frequently Asked Questions

Supporting You Every Step of the Way

  • Who is Eligible for the NDIS?

    The NDIS supports Australians with a significant and permanent disability that affects their ability to participate in daily life. You may be eligible if you are:

    • Aged between 7 and 65

    • An Australian citizen, Permanent Visa holder, or Protected Special Category Visa holder

    • Living with a permanent and significant disability or require early intervention

  • How do I apply for the NDIS?

    Applying for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) involves a simple three-step process:

    1. Check your eligibility: Before applying, make sure you meet the core criteria. You must be aged between 7 and 65, live in Australia as a citizen or permanent resident, and have a permanent and significant disability that impacts your everyday life. You can check your status using the official NDIS Eligibility Checklist.

    2. Gather supporting evidence: You will need to provide professional evidence of your disability. Ask your GP, specialist, or allied health professionals to help you provide recent reports detailing how your condition impacts your everyday functional capacity.

    3. Complete the Access Request Form: Fill out an Access Request Form (ARF). You can download templates directly from the NDIS Access Request Page, complete it over the phone with the NDIA, or coordinate with a local office. Once finished, it can be submitted via email to applications@ndis.gov.au.

  • What NDIS services can Assist Lifestyle provide?

    Assist Lifestyle is registered to provide supports under the following NDIS registration groups:

    0101 Accommodation/Tenancy

    0102 Assist Access/Maintain Employment

    0106 Assist-Life Stage, Transition

    0107 Assist-Personal Activities

    0108 Assist-Travel/Transport

    0115 Daily Tasks/Shared Living

    0116 Innovative Community Participation

    0117 Development-Life Skills

    0120 Household Tasks

    0125 Participate Community

    0132 Support Coordination

    0133 Specialised Supported Employment

    0136 Group/Centre Activities

  • How Does the Funding Process Work?

    Once you’re deemed eligible, an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator will work with you to create a personalised NDIS plan. This plan includes funding for supports aligned with your goals — such as independence, work, social inclusion, or health.

  • How Do I Start with the NDIS?

    Here’s a simple 3-step process to get started:

    1. Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet the age, residency, and disability criteria.

    2. Plan Creation – Work with an NDIS planner or support worker to outline your needs and goals.

    3. Plan Approval – Submit your plan for NDIA approval. Once approved, you can begin receiving services.

  • What Should I Know About Plan Management?

    You can manage your NDIS funds in one of three ways:

    • NDIA-managed: NDIA pays providers directly.

    • Plan-managed: A registered plan manager helps you manage payments and budgets.

    • Self-managed: You control all aspects, including choosing and paying providers. Each option offers different levels of flexibility and control.

  • How Can I Review or Change My Plan?

    You can request a plan review at any time if your needs change. The NDIA also conducts scheduled annual reviews. This ensures your supports stay relevant and effective.

  • What Types of Supports are Available?

    NDIS funding is grouped into three main support categories:

    • Core Supports – Daily living, transport, social participation, and consumables.

    • Capacity Building – Skill development, therapy, employment support, and support coordination.

    • Capital Supports – Assistive technologies, vehicle modifications, and home improvements.

  • How Can I Access Community Activities Through the NDIS?

    Community participation funding helps you engage in social, recreational, or educational activities. This could include support to attend appointments, join clubs, or explore hobbies and events.

  • How Can NDIS Support Workers Help With Social Participation?

    Support workers provide transport, social guidance, and encouragement to participate in meaningful community activities, helping reduce isolation and improve mental well-being.

  • What Daily Living Supports Are Available?

    NDIS supports daily activities such as:

    • Personal hygiene (showering, grooming)

    • Dressing and undressing

    • Meal preparation

    • Basic home tasks. The goal is to help you live comfortably and independently in your own home.

  • Can Family Carers Receive Support?

    While the NDIS does not directly fund carers, it provides services that indirectly support them, such as respite care and carer training, helping to reduce stress and improve family support dynamics.

  • What Are Assistive Technologies in the NDIS?

    Assistive technologies (AT) range from simple aids like modified utensils to complex systems like mobility devices or communication tools. They help participants manage daily life more independently.

  • How Do I Include Assistive Technologies in My Plan?

    Discuss your needs with your planner or support coordinator. They’ll help identify technologies considered "reasonable and necessary" and ensure they’re included in your plan.

  • What is Support Coordination and How Does It Help?

    Support coordination is a capacity-building support that helps participants:

    • Understand their NDIS plan

    • Connect with providers and services

    • Organise and manage supports effectively. It ensures you get the most out of your plan and feel confident navigating the system.

  • How Do I Choose the Right Support Coordinator?

    Look for someone experienced, especially in your specific support needs (e.g. psychosocial, early intervention). A good coordinator listens, advocates for your goals, and helps you build independence.