Introduction

Obtaining an NDIS plan is a crucial stride that empowers you to access the professional tools, individuals, and services necessary for crafting a gratifying life, on your terms.

As someone living with a disability, your journey and destination will be as matchless as you are. That’s why in Australia, we have the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) — a government-backed endeavor designed to provide assistance.

The NDIS, often referred to as such here, is a governmental effort that links individuals with disabilities to all the resources required for independent living. This not only assures additional support for loved ones and caregivers but also encompasses NDIS plan management.

For some, navigating the process of attaining an NDIS plan might appear perplexing. To address this, we’ve meticulously crafted a helpful guide that breaks down each step.

Check if you’re eligible for an NDIS plan

Before applying for an NDIS plan, you must be eligible. To find out if you or your loved one is, complete this simple checklist:

Are you between the ages of 7 and 65?

To be eligible for NDIS plan management, you must be younger than 65 years old on the day you apply. If you’ve missed this deadline, you might be able to access government-funded aged care services.

If a child you care for is younger than seven years old, the NDIS early childhood approach provides children living with a disability and their families with early intervention support, including NDIS plan management, so they can get the best start in life.

Do you live in Australia and are you an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Category visa holder?

Is your disability caused by an impairment or likely to be permanent?

The NDIS will require evidence that your disability significantly decreases your functional capacity (or how you go about your daily life) as well as your ability to work, study or engage in social activities. There is more information on how to obtain this information in the next section.

Do you use specialised equipment because of your disability?

This may include equipment to help you complete daily tasks like assistive technology for communication, learning and the organising your life. Or modifications to your home, such as ramps and rails.

Apply for an NDIS plan

Becoming an NDIS participant can unlock numerous opportunities for you and your support network. This includes the chance to engage in a wider array of community activities, pursue and retain new employment, enhance your independence, and work towards those aspirations that may have seemed unattainable. Thanks to an NDIS plan, the potential is limitless!

To initiate the NDIS registration process, there are a few routes you can take:

1. Reach out by calling 1800 800 110 to complete your application over the phone.
2. Fill out the online application form available, or
3. Establish contact with your Local Area Coordinator, who can provide comprehensive insight into the prerequisites and serve as your primary contact throughout the entire process.

Alternatively, you can also get in touch with us at 1800 968 775, and we’ll be there to assist you step by step. We’ve assisted numerous individuals like you, explaining the process and offering guidance at each juncture.

Gathering the necessary documents to support your application might require a little assistance from a family member, loved one, or trusted friend.

You’ll be asked to provide documentation verifying your identity, as well as your Australian citizenship or residency status.

Moreover, you’ll need to furnish evidence of your impairments. This entails section two of the application form, which should be completed by your treating professional — be it your doctor, specialist, or allied health service provider.

It’s crucial that your treating professional meets the following criteria:

• A minimum of six months of working with you.
• The relevant and appropriate type of professional to furnish evidence. For instance, if you have cerebral palsy, you would seek evidence from your occupational therapist, physiotherapist, and/or paediatrician.
• Proper qualifications and registration within their area of practice as mandated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency or the relevant professional authority.

After submitting your application, you can anticipate a waiting period of approximately 21 days to learn the outcome. The NDIS will reach out to inform you about the success of your application. Once you’ve received this notification, the subsequent step involves crafting your NDIS plan.

Create your NDIS plan

To work out what supports are best suited to your needs, the NDIS will arrange a planning meeting with you. During this session, an NDIS representative will chat to you about your likes and dislikes, how you enjoy spending your time, and help you to define some short and long-term goals, all while providing information about NDIS plan management.

Setting clear and achievable goals is important to your physical and mental wellbeing as an NDIS participant. They give you and your service provider defined markers to track and measure your progress, just like goal posts!

What funding does an NDIS plan provide?

Funding allocation hinges on the objectives established during your NDIS planning meeting. This funding is distributed across three distinct categories:

1. Core supports: This encompasses consumables, activities related to daily hygiene, engagement in community events, and transportation assistance if you’re unable to drive or utilize public transport.
2. Capacity building: These resources encompass a variety of aspects, including plan management services, opportunities for employment, enhancements to health and well-being through activities like exercise and nutrition therapies, support for home living (such as short-term accommodation options), and nurturing relationships.
3. Capital support: This category pertains to acquiring assistive technology aimed at enhancing mobility, personal care, communication, and home modifications to ensure a more accommodating living environment.

Furthermore, the NDIS extends its support to caregivers as well. Acquiring an NDIS plan can provide essential assistance to those who devote their time and effort to caring for you. This is particularly valuable as caregivers often face the challenge of balancing their responsibilities while addressing their own needs and obligations.

For instance, supports like respite care can offer your caregiver a well-earned respite, affording them a break from their demanding routine. This not only benefits the caregiver but also enables you to explore new experiences beyond your usual routine.

Get the support you need today

The NDIS website boasts an array of valuable resources designed to guide you through various aspects, from the process of NDIS registration to comprehending all the intricacies of the NDIS, including details about NDIS plan management.

It doesn’t matter if you’re embarking on your initial steps within the NDIS realm or if you’ve been a participant for a substantial duration — our support remains steadfast and available to assist you along the way.