A simple introduction to the NDIS, its purpose, the main access requirements and how to apply.
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is Australia’s national scheme for supporting eligible people with disability. It is designed to give participants more choice and control over the supports they use to work towards their goals, take part in the community and live as independently as possible.
The NDIS is run by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). It does not replace health care, education, housing, employment services or other mainstream services. Instead, it may fund disability-related supports that meet the NDIS rules and are included in a participant’s plan.
Who can apply?
Access is decided by the NDIA. To apply, you must be younger than 65, live in Australia, and be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or Protected Special Category visa holder. You must also meet the disability requirements, early intervention requirements, or both.
The disability requirements consider whether a person has a disability caused by a permanent impairment, whether the impairment significantly affects everyday activities, and whether the person is likely to need NDIS supports for their lifetime.
Some people may qualify through early intervention. This pathway considers whether an impairment is likely to be permanent and whether early support could reduce future support needs, improve functional capacity or prevent it from getting worse. Children younger than six with developmental delay may also qualify under the early intervention requirements. The NDIA assesses each person’s circumstances and supporting evidence.
What evidence may be needed?
An application normally needs identity information and evidence about how the disability affects everyday life. Evidence may come from a treating health professional and should explain the impairment, whether it is likely to be permanent, its functional impact and the supports that may be needed.
A diagnosis alone does not automatically decide access. The NDIA considers the evidence and the legal access requirements for each person’s circumstances.
How do you apply?
- Contact an NDIS partner. A local area coordinator can assist people aged nine and over, while an early childhood partner supports families with children younger than nine. If you do not have a partner in your area, call the NDIS on 1800 800 110.
- Gather supporting evidence. Your partner can explain which identity documents, assessments and reports you may need.
- Submit your application. Work with your partner to provide the required information and evidence to the NDIA.
- Receive the NDIA’s decision. The NDIA will assess your application and tell you whether you meet the access requirements.
If you are not sure where to begin, a trusted family member, advocate or relevant community service may be able to help you understand the process. Bonte Care can explain its own services, but only the NDIA can decide whether someone meets the NDIS access requirements or what funding is included in a plan.
A helpful first step
Write down the everyday activities that are difficult, the support you currently receive, and the goals you would like to work towards. This can help you describe your situation clearly when speaking with health professionals or the NDIA.
Talk to Bonte Care
Want to understand how Bonte Care’s disability supports may fit your needs? Contact our team for a friendly, no-obligation conversation.
Explore our disability support services to learn how Bonte Care may support your daily living, community participation and independence.
Bonte Care phone: 07 5625 6060 / 0451 295 108
Contact Bonte Care
Important information
This article provides general information only. It is not legal, financial, medical or eligibility advice. NDIS rules and guidance can change, and decisions depend on individual circumstances. Check current information with the NDIA or NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission and seek appropriate professional advice when needed.
Last reviewed: October 2026.
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How Can the NDIS Help You Live More Independently?
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