Getting started
The NDIS provides all Australians who meet the access requirements with the reasonable and necessary supports they need to enjoy an ordinary life.
There are generally 2 steps involved in accessing supports under the NDIS:
- making a request to access the NDIS
- if access is approved, you, or the person you care for, will become a participant in the scheme and you will have an NDIS plan developed and approved.
To access the NDIS you must meet age, residency and disability requirements.
You can access the NDIS if you:
- have a permanent disability that significantly affects their ability to take part in everyday activities. Disability may be intellectual, sensory, physical or resulting from a mental health issue
- are aged under 65 when they first apply to access the NDIS
- live in Australia and are an Australian citizen or hold a permanent Visa or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
For people who are close to turning 65 it is important to note that you must be less than 65 years on the day of making an access request to be eligible to become a participant.
A person can also participate in the NDIS if they meet the following early intervention requirements (this includes children and adults):
- they have an impairment that is, or is likely to be, permanent
- there is evidence that receiving supports (early intervention) will assist to reduce the level of help needed to do things now or in the future or will help their family or carer to keep supporting them.
How do I apply for access?
Contact the National Disability Insurance Agency on 1800 800 110 and ask to make an access request.
They will send you an access request form which you can complete with the help of your doctor, health practitioner and those who know you best.
You’ll also need evidence of your disability or if you are making an access request for a child (aged 0-6) you’ll need evidence of disability or developmental delay for children under 7 years of age.
You might feel a bit overwhelmed by the form, but remember your GP or health practitioner can help.
Overwhelmingly Queenslanders who have an NDIS plan say the supports that have been provided have helped improve their life.