The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming when you’re first starting out. Whether you’re applying for the first time, managing an existing plan, or looking for the right supports, understanding the NDIS process from start to finish is essential.
This guide will walk you through each stage of the NDIS journey, from applying for funding to getting the right support.
📌 Step 1: Understanding the NDIS
The NDIS provides funding to Australians with permanent and significant disabilities to help them access supports and services that improve their quality of life.
Who Can Access the NDIS?
✅ You must be under 65 years old
✅ You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
✅ You must have a permanent disability that significantly impacts daily life
If you meet these criteria, you can apply for the NDIS and begin the process.
📝 Step 2: Applying for the NDIS
To apply for NDIS funding, you need to complete an Access Request Form (ARF). This can be done:
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✅ Online via the NDIS website
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✅ Over the phone at 1800 800 110
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✅ Through a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
What Documents Do You Need?
📌 Proof of Identity (e.g., Medicare card, birth certificate)
📌 Medical Reports & Evidence from doctors, specialists, or therapists
📌 Functional Assessments showing how your disability affects daily life
Once submitted, the NDIS will assess your eligibility—this can take up to 21 days.
🎯 Step 3: Your First NDIS Planning Meeting
If your application is approved, you’ll have a planning meeting with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to discuss:
✅ Your disability-related needs
✅ Your goals and aspirations
✅ What supports you need (therapy, equipment, respite care, etc.)
✅ How you want your plan to be managed (self-managed, plan-managed, or NDIA-managed)
💡 Important: If you or your family require respite care, this is the time to request funding for it. NDIS can cover Short-Term Accommodation (STA) and respite under Core Supports.
💰 Step 4: Understanding Your NDIS Plan & Funding Categories
Your NDIS plan will be divided into three funding categories:
1️⃣ Core Supports – Covers daily activities, transport, consumables, and respite care
2️⃣ Capacity Building Supports – Covers therapy, employment assistance, and life skills programs
3️⃣ Capital Supports – Covers assistive technology and home modifications
You’ll receive a budget breakdown that explains how much funding you have for each category.
🔎 Step 5: Finding the Right Supports & Services
Once your plan is approved, you can start accessing services that help you meet your goals. You may need:
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Support Workers – To assist with daily living and personal care
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Therapists (OT, Speech, Physio, Psychologists) – To improve your independence and skills
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Respite Care Services – To give you and your family a break
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Assistive Technology Providers – For mobility aids and communication devices
💡 Not sure where to start? A Support Coordinator can help you find and organise the right services. Read our guide: Is Your Support Coordinator Doing Their Job Properly?
🔄 Step 6: Managing Your NDIS Plan
Your funding can be managed in three ways:
📌 Self-Managed – You control your budget, book providers, and submit invoices yourself.
📌 Plan-Managed – A registered Plan Manager handles payments and invoices for you.
📌 NDIA-Managed – The NDIS directly pays registered providers on your behalf.
Each option has pros and cons, so choose the one that best suits your needs.
🔄 Step 7: Preparing for Your NDIS Plan Review
Your NDIS plan lasts for 12 to 36 months. Before it ends, you’ll have a plan review meeting to:
✅ Assess if your current supports are working
✅ Adjust funding based on changes in your needs
✅ Request additional supports (e.g., respite, therapies)
💡 Pro Tip: Keep track of your progress and keep reports from therapists or service providers to support your requests for increased funding.
📌 Visual Guide: The NDIS Process
Here’s a simple step-by-step breakdown of the NDIS process:
1️⃣ Check Eligibility – Are you under 65 with a significant disability?
2️⃣ Apply – Submit an Access Request Form with medical evidence.
3️⃣ Planning Meeting – Discuss your needs, goals, and funding requirements.
4️⃣ Plan Approval – Get your NDIS plan and budget.
5️⃣ Find Supports – Connect with service providers and support workers.
6️⃣ Use Your Funding – Manage payments through self, plan, or NDIA management.
7️⃣ Review & Adjust – Prepare for your annual plan review.
(Insert infographic here – a simple flowchart showing each step in the NDIS process.)
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of Your NDIS Plan
The NDIS can be confusing at first, but with the right information and support, you can access life-changing services. Whether you need respite care, therapy, or assistive technology, understanding your funding and options is the key to getting the most out of your plan.
If you need help finding the right supports, consider working with a Support Coordinator to guide you through the process.
🔹 Want to learn more about choosing a Support Coordinator? Read our guide: Is Your Support Coordinator Doing Their Job Properly?
🔹 Looking for NDIS-funded respite care? Learn more about our services
