How do I apply for the NDIS?

Who can apply for the NDIS?

According to NDIS eligibility checklist you can apply if you: 

• Are between the ages of 9 and 65 
• Are an Australian citizen, permanent resident or Protected Special Category Visa holder 
• Live in Australia 
• Have a disability caused by a permanent impairment 
• Need disability-specific supports to complete daily life activities 

Keep in mind you must meet all the criteria listed above to be eligible, and you will have to provide evidence of your disability to the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

How do I apply for NDIS funding?

Eligible applicants can apply for NDIS funding:

• Online via the NDIS digital portal
• By mailing the NDIS Access Request Form to PO Box 700, Canberra, ACT, 2601
• In person at a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) office

You must provide evidence of age, residency, and a permanent disability. Participants may also be required to provide supporting evidence.

Once the participant has provided all of the necessary information, the NDIA will make a decision within 21 days.

What evidence do I need to provide?

To provide evidence of your identity, you'll need to provide one birth or arrival document, such as an Australian birth certificate, passport or citizenship certificate, and two Use in Community documents, such as a driver's licence, Centrelink card, Medicare card or Proof of Age card.

You will also need to provide evidence of your disability. This is typically provided by your treating health professional, such as:

• General Practitioner (GP)
• Paediatrician
• Orthopaedic surgeon
• Occupational Therapist
• Speech Pathologist (Therapist)
• Neurologist
• Psychologist
• Psychiatrist
• Physiotherapist.

Read the NDIS's full guidance on providing evidence of disability.

How long do I wait to find out if I'm eligible for NDIS funding?

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will make a decision within 21 days of your application so long as you provided all the necessary evidence and documentation.

The outcome will be sent as a letter, also known as an "access decision".

Learn more about the NDIS's timelines in their Participant Service Guarantee.

How to apply for NDIS early childhood intervention

To be eligible for early childhood intervention your child must be: 

• Younger than 6 with a developmental delay or; 
• Younger than 9 with a disability 

Parents of eligible applicants can apply for early childhood intervention: 

• Online via the NDIS digital portal
• In person with an Early Childhood Partner

Once all of the necessary information is provided, the NDIA will make a decision within 21 days.