I’ve applied to the NDIS. What’s next?
What you need to know about accessing the NDIS
Updated: December 2024
Congratulations on taking the first step towards accessing National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) support.
Like anything you do for the first time, navigating the NDIS can feel a bit overwhelming and complicated. In 2024, the Australian Government made some changes to the NDIS, which started on 3rd October. So, some parts of the process have changed.
But don’t worry, Five Good Friends are experienced in this area and have helped our participants through each of the steps.
Once you’ve submitted your application, the process typically goes through the following stages.
1. The NDIS application process
Application review
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is responsible for determining who is eligible to access the NDIS. After you submit your application, the NDIS will review it to work out whether you’re eligible for support services.
They will be checking whether you meet:
- the age requirements (be between 9 and 65 on the day you apply)
- residence requirements (you must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident or Protected Special Category Visa holder)
- whether you live in Australia
- either the disability requirements or the early intervention requirements.
You can get support for your application from your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Partner for children under 9. These will help you navigate the applicaiton process and can act as a primary contact.
Read our easy read guide to who can help you with applying for the NDIS.
You find out if you’re eligible
Once they have your application, they have 21 days to decide wheteher you're eligible or whether they need more information.
On the day they decide, you become an NDIS participant. They will send you a letter to let you know that you’re eligible, whether you meet the disability or early intervention requirements and what your next steps are.
2. Setting up your NDIS plan
You have your first planning meeting
Within 21 days of finding out you’re eligible, the NDIS will contact you about your first planning meeting. During your plannnig meeting, you'll discuss how to access NDIS funding for the supports you need.
This meeting is your opportunity to discuss your needs, goals and preferences regarding the support services you require.
Here are some tips on how to pepare for your planning meeting.
The NDIS has new laws about which supports can be funded. The NDIS requires approved supports to meet specific criteria before funding them in your plan.
Your supports need to be:
- be related to your disability
- show value for money
- be effective and beneficial
We have created this Easy Read blog about the new changes to NDIS funding.
You receive your NDIS plan
Based on the information gathered during your planning meeting, the NDIS will develop a personalised support plan. They will also look at:
- reports from doctors or allied health professionals
- any other assessments such as from government agencies or disability support providers
- what support you receive from community connections
This plan will outline the services and supports you are eligible to receive through the NDIS and what funding you will receive.
Read more about understanding your plan.
How to access your NDIS plan
Once you have your plan approved, you'll receive it within seven days. The will send you a copy and you can also access it on the myplace portal on the NDIS website.
Plans before 3 October2024 only showed the funding split between each support.
However, new plans will now show the total amount of NDIS funding you get. It will aslo show the amount of funding you have for each support category or service and how long you have to use it. Initally all new plans will have a funding period of 12 months.
This will help you keep better track of accessing your NDIS funds.
3. Access NDIS support
Learn more about accessing NDIS support with your plan
After your plan is approved, you can set up an NDIS implementation meeting with your NDIS contact. They can help you understand your plan and connect with government services or providers.
Another way to learn more about your plan is through your support coordinator. You must include funding for a support coordinator in your plan and this can help you get the most from your funding.
Support coordinators can help by connecting you with service providers and streamlining the NDIS process.
Choose service providers and set up supports
Your support coordinator or NDIS contact will help you find providers who will best meet your needs and align with your goals. Whether it's help with daily tasks, therapy services or specialised equipment, there are a variety of providers available to help you.
It’s time to schedule therapy sessions, organise transport services or choose the equipment that you need, so you can achieve your goals! Here’s a bit of a guide to what you can use your NDIS funds for.
4. What if your plan needs to change?
If you’re not happy with your plan or you don’t think it’s working out for you, you can request a review of your plan. Get in touch with your NDIS contact, support coordinator or recovery coach about the issues you’re having with accessing supports. You have 3 months after your receive your plan to have an internal review.
Your plan isn’t set in stone. If your situation changes, you can adjust your plan to make sure it suits your needs. You will also have regular plan reassessments to make sure your NDIS plan is working best for you.
The NDIS usually reviews plans every 12 months, but you can resquest a reveiw sooner if your circumstances chage. During the review, you can adjust your funding or set new goals.
If you’re new to the NDIS and want personalised guidance from a registered provider, our friendly team is here to help. Reach out today to explore how we can support you on your journey.
