Navigating the NDIS can feel overwhelming for many people looking for support for themselves or a family member. We’ve put together a short guide to help you understand NDIS eligibility, and whether or not you may be able to apply to become a participant. The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is a support scheme from the Australian Government designed to provide financial assistance to people with a permanent disability. The assistance provides funding to the approved participant, to help improve their quality of life and achieve their goals through choice and control over their support.
People must apply to the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) to become an NDIS participant to start getting support under the NDIS. To be eligible for the NDIS, age and residential requirements need to be met in addition to having a disability caused by an impairment.
You may be eligible for the NDIS if you have a permanent or likely to be a permanent disability that requires ongoing assistance. Injuries or illnesses that are acute and will heal are not eligible for the NDIS. Some of the key requirements:
To meet the eligibility requirements of the NDIS you must be an Australian citizen or a permanent resident. If you are not an Australian citizen you must hold a permanent visa or a protected special category visa which is only for some citizens of New Zealand.
Applicants will need to answer questions about where they live, where their family is, if they work in Australia, if they own property in Australia and how much time they spend outside of Australia.
If, for example, someone spent a lot of time overseas, a stronger connection to Australia than to other countries would need to be shown.
The NDIS defines psychosocial disability as a term used to describe a disability that may arise from a mental health issue. Not everyone that suffers from a mental health issue will experience psychosocial disability. However, those that do may be eligible for the NDIS if their disability is significant and likely to be permanent.
A person with a psychosocial disability may experience restricted ability to:
If you think you might be eligible and want to apply:
For children younger than 7, the NDIS encourages families to talk to an early childhood partner before applying to the NDIS. They can provide supports to children before they apply, and let families know if the NDIS is right for their child.
If you’d like to learn more, give us a call, and we’d be happy to help.