How to apply for the NDIS: A guide

Published at 23-09-2024 14:00:00

How to apply for the NDIS: A guide

Applying for NDIS funding can seem daunting, but with the right information and steps, you can navigate the process smoothly. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, this guide will help you understand how to apply for NDIS funding effectively.

Step 1: Check your eligibility

Before you begin the application process, it’s important to determine if you’re eligible for NDIS funding. The NDIS is designed to support individuals with permanent and significant disabilities that impact their daily lives.

Wondering if you’re eligible?

Check out our Am I eligible for the NDIS resource to see if you qualify. This will help you understand the basic requirements related to age, residency, and the nature of your disability.

Step 2: Making your access request

If you meet the eligibility criteria, the next step is to make an Access Request to the NDIS. There are several ways to do this:

1. Call the NDIS
   • Dial 1800 800 110 to make a verbal access request.
   • Request that the application form be mailed or emailed to you.
   • Need help? Contact your Local Area Coordinator, Early Childhood Early Intervention partner, or your local NDIA office for assistance with the call or form completion.
2. Visit Your Nearest NDIS Office
   • Collect an application form from your local area coordinator, early childhood partner, or NDIA office.
   • Find your nearest location on the NDIS website.
3. Apply Online
   1. Download the Access Request Form from the NDIS website. (Please note: This form is not compatible with Internet Explorer.)
   2. Submit your completed form via:
      • Email: NAT@ndis.gov.au
      • Post: GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601
      • In Person: Drop it off at your nearest NDIS office.

Step 3: What to include in your NDIS application

Your Access Request will need to include several important details:

• Personal Information: Confirm your identity and, if applicable, the authority of the person acting on your behalf.
• Eligibility Questions: Answer questions related to age, residency, and disability requirements.
• Consent: Provide consent for the NDIS to access information from third parties, such as your current disability support providers.

Pro Tip: If you’re already receiving disability supports, you can give your provider permission to share your information with the NDIS to streamline the process.

Step 4: Providing information about your disability

The NDIS requires evidence to assess whether you meet the disability or early intervention requirements. Here’s what you need to include:

• Disability Details:
  • What your disability is
  • When it was diagnosed
  • How long it is expected to last
  • Available treatments (e.g., medications, therapies, surgeries)
• Impact on Daily Life:
• Provide detailed information on how your disability affects various aspects of your life, such as:
  • Mobility/Motor Skills
  • Communication
  • Social Interaction
  • Learning
  • Self-Care
  • Self-Management

You might be asked to provide additional information after submitting your Access Request. This could include more detailed reports or assessments from your health professionals.

Step 5: Gathering the right evidence

To strengthen your application, ensure that your evidence meets the following criteria:

• Recent: Information should be no more than 12 months old if it relates to your functional capacity.
• Relevant: Completed by a treating health professional who understands your primary disability.
• Comprehensive: Confirms your primary disability and its impact on your daily life.
• Detailed: Describes past treatments, outcomes, and future treatment options.

Primary disability:

This refers to the impairment that most significantly affects your daily functioning.

Helpful resources:

Use the NDIS Types of Disability Evidence Fact Sheet to determine which health professional is best suited to provide your evidence.

Who can provide evidence?

Collaborate with your treating health professionals to gather the necessary evidence. Common professionals include:

• General Practitioners (GPs)
• Paediatricians
• Orthopedic Surgeons
• Occupational Therapists
• Speech Pathologists
• Neurologists
• Psychologists
• Psychiatrists
• Physiotherapists

Criteria for evidence providers:

• They should be the most appropriate person to provide evidence of your primary disability.
• They should have treated you for at least six months.

How your health professional can help

Your health professional can support your application by:

• Completing Forms: Such as the NDIS Supporting Evidence Form or the NDIS Evidence of Psychosocial Disability Form.
• Providing Reports: Submit existing reports, assessments, or letters that detail the impact of your disability.

Special considerations for children under 9

If you’re applying for a child under 9, work with professionals like:

• Doctors
• Child Health Nurses
• Early Childhood Educators

These professionals can provide the necessary evidence to support your child’s NDIS access request.

Final tips for a successful application

• Get Detailed Reports: Ensure your health professional’s reports clearly explain how your disability affects your daily life in NDIS terms (focus on functional capacity).
• Use Clear Language: Avoid overly technical terms; make sure the information aligns with NDIS requirements.
• Stay Organized: Keep copies of all submitted documents and correspondence with the NDIS.

Need more help?

If you need assistance at any stage of your application, don’t hesitate to reach out to:

• Local Area Coordinators
• Early Childhood/ Early Intervention Partners
• NDIA Offices