NDIS Your plain-language guide
Understanding the NDIS
The NDIS can feel complex at first. This guide explains the basics: who can apply, how plans work and how Central Disability Homecare can help you make the most of your funding.
The basics
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding to eligible Australians with disability, so they can access the supports and services they need to live more independently and take part in everyday life.
Rather than one-size-fits-all services, the NDIS gives each participant an individual plan built around their goals. You then choose the providers who will deliver your supports.
National scheme
The National Disability Insurance Scheme is funded by the Australian Government and run by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
Individual funding
Eligible people receive a personal plan with funding for reasonable and necessary supports.
Choice and control
Participants choose which supports to use, who provides them and how their plan is managed.
Eligibility
Who can join the NDIS?
To become an NDIS participant, you generally need to meet these access requirements.
Age
You are under 65 when you apply to join the NDIS.
Residence
You live in Australia and are an Australian citizen, a permanent resident or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
Disability or early intervention
You have a permanent and significant disability, or you may benefit from early intervention supports.
This is a summary only. The NDIA makes all access decisions. Check the official NDIS website for the full requirements.
Check on ndis.gov.auStep by step
Your NDIS journey
From your first question to using your plan, here is what the process usually looks like.
-
01
Check eligibility
Review the NDIS access requirements, or talk to us, your GP or a local area coordinator.
-
02
Apply to the NDIS
Submit an access request to the NDIA with evidence about your disability.
-
03
Planning conversation
Talk with the NDIA or your partner about your goals, needs and current supports.
-
04
Receive your plan
Your approved plan sets out your goals and the funding for your supports.
-
05
Choose your providers
Pick the providers you want to work with and agree how your support will be delivered.
-
06
Use and review
Start your supports and review your plan as your goals and needs change.
Managing your plan
Three ways to manage your funding
You can choose one option or combine them across different parts of your plan.
Self-managed
You manage your own funding, pay providers directly and keep your own records. Maximum flexibility, more admin.
Plan-managed
A plan manager pays your invoices, tracks your budget and sends you statements, while you keep choice of providers.
NDIA-managed
The NDIA pays providers on your behalf. You can only use providers registered with the NDIS.
How we help
Making your NDIS plan work for you
Explain your plan
We walk you through your plan in plain language so you know what is funded and how to use it.
Match the right supports
We help you choose services that line up with your goals and your budget.
Clear service agreements
Simple agreements that set out what we will provide, when and at what cost.
Work with your team
We work alongside your support coordinator, plan manager, family and carers.
NDIS FAQs
Your NDIS questions answered
Still unsure about something? Our team is happy to talk it through with you.
Official NDIS resources
The information on this page is general and may change. Please check the official NDIS website for the latest details.
Can you help if I do not have an NDIS plan yet?
Yes. Get in touch and we can talk through the access process, what to expect and the information you may need. We can also start planning your supports so you are ready when your plan is approved.
Can I use Central Disability Homecare with any type of plan?
Talk to us about how your plan is managed. We will explain how we can work with your funding and what the next steps look like.
Can I change providers?
Yes. Choice and control are core NDIS principles. You can change providers, usually by giving notice under your service agreement.
What if my needs change before my plan review?
You can contact the NDIA to ask for a plan reassessment if your circumstances change. We can adjust your supports within your current plan in the meantime.
How do I make a complaint about an NDIS provider?
You can raise any concern with us directly and we will respond promptly and respectfully. You can also contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission at any time.