The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government initiative that provides individualised funding to people under 65 living with permanent disabilities. It helps cover reasonable and necessary supports to improve independence, health, and community participation.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.