What is the NDIS, and how do I apply?

According to current statistics, there are more than 4.3 million Australians who live with a permanent and significant disability. Ordinary day-to-day activities can become increasingly difficult, and quality of life can be adversely affected by permanent and significant disability; that's why the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will provide more than $22 billion in funding every year to assist an estimated 500,000 of these Australians living with permanent and significant disability.

For many NDIS recipients, it is the first time they will receive adequate support & funding for their disability and the effects on their everyday life. The NDIS can provide information and connections to a wide array of services including doctors, support groups, libraries, school and even sporting clubs.

When reading about the NDIS, it can be helpful to understand some of the terms or key-words used by the scheme. These are:

Permanent and Significant Disability
A permanent disability is one which has been diagnosed as likely to be lifelong, and have effects on the person in day to day life for many years. Significant disability is one which has a large impact on a persons ability to perform day-to-day activities and self-care.

Supports and Services
Products or assistance services that help a person with permanent and significant disability in their daily life, as well as participation in the community. This also includes assistance to plan personal goals and achieve these goals.

Early Intervention
Providing support early for children and adults to reduce the impacts their disability or developmental delay may have in the future. Building skills and independence to assist with future self-care and self-management.

You may be eligible for NDIS if you:

• Are aged between 7 and 65
• Are living in Australia and have Australian residency
• Usually need support from a person because of a permanent and significant disability
• Use special equipment because of a permanent and significant disability
• Need supports now to reduce future needs

To learn more about eligibility, visit the NDIS eligibility information page here.

There are a number of different options available for Applying, and you may be able to get assistance from local services in your community with your application.

To Apply for NDIS, you can:

• Call NDIS on 1800 800 110 and ask to make an Access Request
• Complete the Access Request form from the NDIS website (email to NAT@ndis.gov.au)
• Contact your existing disability service provider and ask about NDIS application

When you contact the NDIS, you may be asked to confirm your identity and/or authorize a person to act on your behalf. Additionally, the NDIS may ask questions to see if you meet NDIS requirements.

NDIS has a number of accessible services for contacting them including:

• TIS Service: 131 450
• Hearing or Speech Loss TTY Service: 1800 555 677
• Speak and Listen 1800 555 777

If you're still wondering about NDIS application and eligibility, or you aren't sure where to start, you can also call Mounties Care on 1300 622 633, and our friendly staff will be happy to discuss your requirements and if possible, direct you to the appropriate assistance with your application.