Understanding the NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support to Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. It aims to help individuals achieve their goals, participate in the community, and live as independently as possible. This guide will walk you through the NDIS application process, how to use your funding, and how you can get help managing your NDIS plan.
What is the NDIS?
The NDIS is a government initiative that provides funding for people with disabilities to access services and supports that improve their daily living, independence, and participation in society. The scheme is designed to support individuals with disabilities throughout their lives, empowering them to reach their goals.
Who is Eligible for the NDIS?
To be eligible for the NDIS, you must:
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Be aged between 7 and 65 years old
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Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
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Have a permanent and significant disability that impacts your ability to take part in everyday activities
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Require supports from the NDIS to reduce the impact of your disability
For children under 7 years old, the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) approach can help determine if the child is eligible for the NDIS or other early supports.
How to Apply for NDIS Funding
Applying for NDIS funding is a straightforward process, but it can be helpful to know what steps to take:
Check Your Eligibility
Visit the NDIS website or call the NDIS helpline to check your eligibility for funding.
Submit an Access Request
If you’re eligible, you can submit an NDIS Access Request Form. This form collects information about your personal details and disability. You may also need to provide evidence of your disability, including medical reports from your doctor or specialist.
Receive Confirmation
Once your application is reviewed, the NDIS will confirm whether or not you are eligible. If you’re approved, you’ll receive a letter confirming your NDIS funding.
Meet with an NDIS Planner
You will be assigned an NDIS Planner who will help you create a plan that outlines your goals and the support you need. This plan will become the basis for how your funding is allocated.
Using Your NDIS Funding
Once your plan is approved, you’ll be able to use your NDIS funding to access the services and supports that are best suited to your needs. NDIS plans are flexible, and the supports you can access are categorized into three types of funding:
Core Supports
Funding to assist with everyday activities, such as personal care, meal preparation, cleaning, or transport to community activities.
Capital Supports
Funding for assistive technology (e.g., mobility aids, communication devices) and home or vehicle modifications.
Capacity Building Supports
Funding to help you build skills to live independently, manage your life, and achieve your goals. This includes support coordination, therapy services, employment support, and skill development programs.
You can choose how to manage your funding, and there are three main options:
NDIS-Managed Funding: The NDIS pays providers directly.
Plan-Managed Funding: You choose a registered Plan Manager who pays providers on your behalf and helps with managing your funds.
Self-Managed Funding: You manage your funding directly, choosing your providers and handling the payments yourself.
How to Use Your Funding
Using your funding involves working with NDIS-registered providers (or non-registered providers if you’re self-managing) to access the services you need. Here’s how the process works:
Understand Your NDIS Plan
Your plan outlines your approved funding and goals. Ensure you understand which services and supports are covered, how much funding you’ve been allocated for each category, and any specific restrictions.
Find Service Providers
Depending on how your funding is managed, you can choose providers who are NDIS-registered or non-registered. Service providers can help with personal care, therapy, equipment, and other supports. If you’re unsure where to start, the NDIS Provider Finder tool can help.
Use Your Core, Capital, and Capacity Building Funding
Your plan may cover services such as personal care, mobility aids, or therapy sessions. Work with your support team to decide how you’ll allocate the funding in line with your goals.
Track Your Spending
It’s important to track how much of your funding you’ve used and how much remains. If you’re plan-managed, your Plan Manager will help you with this. If you’re self-managing, you’ll need to keep detailed records.
Plan Review
Your NDIS plan is reviewed regularly, typically every 12 months, to make sure your goals are being met and to adjust the funding as needed. You can request a review earlier if your needs change.
Who Can Help You Manage Your NDIS Plan?
Navigating the NDIS can be challenging, but there are several resources available to help:
Support Coordinators
Support Coordinators (Level 2) help you connect with services, understand your plan, and manage multiple providers. They can assist with problem-solving and ensure that your supports are working effectively. If your plan includes funding for Coordination of Supports, you can use this to hire a Support Coordinator.
Plan Managers
Plan Managers help participants manage their funding, including paying invoices and tracking spending. They also provide financial reports to ensure you’re using your NDIS plan effectively. If you have Plan Management funding, you can choose a Plan Manager to handle the financial aspects of your plan.
NDIS Planners
Your assigned NDIS Planner will help you develop your plan and review it annually. They are available to assist with understanding your funding and goals.
Local Area Coordinators (LACs)
LACs are your first point of contact for the NDIS. They help you access the NDIS, create your plan, and connect with local service providers.
Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) Coordinators
For children under 7 years, ECEI Coordinators provide early childhood supports and help families understand the best early interventions for their child’s development.
Other Useful Information for Participants
New NDIS Participant Portal: The portal is an online tool where participants can view their NDIS plan, track funding, and connect with service providers. It’s a convenient way to manage your plan online.
NDIS Price Guide: The NDIS Price Guide provides details on the maximum prices that providers can charge for different supports. Understanding this guide helps you know what to expect and ensures your funding is used efficiently.
Support Networks: Peer support networks or advocacy groups can provide valuable insights, share experiences, and offer advice on navigating the NDIS.
Our Participant Onboarding Journey
Initial Contact
✅ Participant or representative reaches out via phone, online booking, email, or referral.
✅ Complimentary consultation scheduled to discuss needs, goals, and available services.
Consultation & Assessment
✅ One-on-one consultation with the participant to assess support needs.
✅ Review of NDIS plan, goals, and funding allocation.
✅ Develop a tailored support plan aligned with participant’s objectives.
Service Agreement & Care Plan
✅ Draft and review the Service Agreement outlining services, roles, and responsibilities.
✅ Finalise the individual care plan, which may include personal care, community participation, or therapy needs.
✅ Registered Nurse develops clinical care plans if applicable (e.g., bowel care, PEG feeding).
Onboarding & Team Assignment
✅ Assign dedicated support workers, and if applicable, complex care professionals.
✅ Participant receives a welcome pack with contact and online login information to view support and service details.
✅ Establish a schedule for ongoing support based on participant preferences and quote.
Commencement of Services
✅ Services begin, with regular communication and updates from the support team.
✅ Participant’s care is monitored closely, ensuring satisfaction and adjustments as needed.
Ongoing Review & Monitoring
✅ Regular check-ins to review progress and ensure services continue to meet participant’s needs.
✅ Formal Progress report and review reports scheduled quarterly, or as required, to update care plans or goals.
Contact Us Today!
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Book Complimentary Consultation
Book a 30 or 60-minute consultation, online or in-person, with a Support Relationship Manager. We'll answer your questions and provide you with the best onboarding experience possible.
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Call Us 1800 960 068
We’re available to answer all your inquiries by phone Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, excluding public holidays.
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Chat with Us Chat or Email
Live Chat available Monday to Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm.
Email: Contactus@iseeksupport.au
Email: Support@iseeksupport.au
