How to know if you’re eligible for NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a new way of providing support for Australians with a disability. The NDIS will provide people with a disability, their families, and carers with more choice and control over the services and support they receive.

If you have a disability that is expected to last at least six months, and you meet the NDIS access requirements, you will be eligible to receive support from the scheme. To find out if you are eligible for the NDIS, you can contact your local NDIS office or call the NDIS on 1800 800 110.

You can also contact HealSoul. We work with people living with a disability to help them navigate the NDIS and receive the supports they need. Our goal is to assist you in finding a life that is fulfilling and independent. You can get started with a free assessment with our team.

In this article, we’ll take a look at NDIS eligibility, who is eligible for the NDIS, and what the eligibility criteria are. If you have any questions about the Scheme and what’s required for participation, then contact our friendly team. They would be happy to assist with any queries you might have.

What are the eligibility criteria for the NDIS?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme is designed to provide support for people with a disability that is expected to last at least six months. To be eligible for the NDIS, you must also meet the access requirements.

Core disability criteria

The first step in determining whether you are eligible for the NDIS is to establish whether you have a disability that is covered by the Scheme. The NDIS will provide support for people with a range of disabilities, including:

• Physical disabilities like cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and acquired brain injuries
• Psychological disabilities like anxiety disorders and depression
• Intellectual disabilities like autism spectrum disorder and Down syndrome
• Sensory disabilities like blindness and deafness

Additional disability criteria

If you have a disability that is not listed above, you may still be eligible for the NDIS if your condition meets the following criteria:

• Your disability must be permanent
• Your disability must significantly reduce your ability to take part in everyday activities
• Your disability must mean you need ongoing support

Access requirements

In addition to having a disability that meets the above criteria, you must also meet the access requirements to be eligible for the NDIS. The access requirements are:

• You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or hold a protected special category visa
• You must live in an area where the NDIS is available
• You must be aged under 65 when you first access the NDIS

If you do not meet the above requirements, you may not be eligible for the NDIS. However, you may be entitled to other supports in other programs. If you’re unsure if you’re eligible or not, contact HealSoul. We can help you understand your position.

How does the NDIS decide if I am eligible?

If you think you might be eligible for the NDIS, the next step is to contact your local NDIS office or call the NDIS on 1800 800 110. The NDIS will then assess your eligibility based on the information you provide.

To assess your eligibility, the NDIS will look at:

• Your age
• The type of disability you have
• How your disability affects your ability to take part in everyday activities
• Your citizenship or residency status
• Where you live

Once the NDIS has assessed your eligibility, they will provide you with a notice of determination. This notice will outline whether or not you are eligible for support from the Scheme.

What if I’m ineligible for the NDIS?

If you are ineligible for the NDIS, there may be other programs and services that can support you. State and Territory governments, as well as Commonwealth programs, may be able to assist you.

For example, Australians living with a disability over the age of 65 can access support through the Commonwealth Home Care Package Program. This program provides funding for a range of services, including personal care, domestic assistance, and social support.

If you are not eligible for the NDIS or other programs, there are still options available to you. Self-assistance groups, volunteer organisations, and private providers may be able to offer you some support.

If you need assistance to find the right support for your needs, contact HealSoul. We can provide you with information and resources to assist you in living independently.

Why are the NDIS eligibility requirements so strict?

The NDIS is a needs-based scheme, which means that it is designed to provide support for people with a disability who have significant and ongoing needs. The Scheme is not intended to provide support for people with temporary or minor disabilities.

The eligibility criteria for the NDIS are therefore quite strict. This is because the Scheme is designed to provide long-term support for people with a disability, rather than short-term assistance.

If you need short-term assistance, there may be other programs available to you. For example:

• If you have a temporary disability resulting from an injury, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation or other insurance schemes.
• If you need help caring for a child with a disability, you may be eligible for the Commonwealth Family Assistance Program.

How HealSoul can help

At HealSoul, we understand that navigating the NDIS can seem complex and daunting. We want to unpack that complexity, and allow you to get on with living the life you want for yourself.

We work with people living with disabilities, giving them access to support programs that are funded by the NDIS. Our disability support workers are highly trained and qualified, and are hand-picked to deliver supports with compassion and sensitivity.

First, we want to help you understand your position. We offer free assessments for people looking to access the NDIS, and can give you a fair and balanced view of your eligibility and what supports you might be entitled to. To get started on the road to a more independent life, contact our team.