Here's a look at how to check if you may qualify for support and assistance under the NDIS.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to help Australians with significant disabilities access the support and help they need. Below, we go over the main eligibility criteria.
NDIS Eligibility Criteria
If you wish to be approved for NDIS support, here's a checklist of the basic criteria you must meet before you apply.
Age
To apply for NDIS support, you must be aged between 7 and 65.
For Australians who are over 65, other care and support options may be available under Aged Care funds and schemes. For more information, take a look here.
For Australians aged between 0 and 6, you may be able to get help under the "Early Childhood Early Intervention" (ECEI) scheme. If your child needs longer-term support, you can later apply for NDIS access. If your child then becomes an NDIS participant, your plan manager will devise the appropriate NDIS plan at this stage. Find out more here.
Residency
You can only access NDIS funding if you meet certain residency criteria. To access NDIS funding, you must live in Australia and be:
An Australian citizen
A Permanent Visa holder
A Protected Special Category Visa holder
If you can't satisfy these criteria, other support may be available – have a look here.
Reason for Applying
Typically, you can only apply for NDIS support and funding if you are able to demonstrate at least one of the following:
You need support because of a significant and permanent disability.
You use special equipment because of a significant or permanent disability.
Future Needs
The goal of NDIS support is to help someone develop the skills and confidence they need to become more independent over time. You can apply for NDIS support if help now is likely to reduce your future needs – otherwise, another scheme may be best for you.
Remember, if you're in any doubt about your eligibility to apply for NDIS support, you can always ask for further information before you complete an application.
About Bright Plan Management
Bright Plan Management is dedicated to offering compassionate, comprehensive services to assist you with all your NDIS plan management needs. Our services include payment and invoice support, general advice and assistance, and dedicated plan management. To find out more about how we can help take the stress out of NDIS plan management, contact our team today.