Eligibility for National Disability Insurance Scheme support

Eligibility for National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funding for an individual is determined by the National Disability Insurance Agency. The NDIS Operational Guideline [URL] provides guidance on determining whether a person with disability meets the access criteria to become a participant in the NDIS.

To be eligible for the NDIS a person must:

• have a permanent and significant disability or a developmental delay that affects their ability to take part in everyday activities
• be younger than 65 years when they first enter the NDIS; those older than 65 years may be eligible for funding and services through My Aged Care
• be an Australian citizen or hold a permanent visa or a protected Special Category visa.

For children younger than 7 years, supports are coordinated by and provided through the NDIS Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) partners. See also how ECEI works.

Independent assessments by qualified healthcare professionals (not NDIA employees) may be available to expedite access to the NDIS. These assessments will:

• focus on function, not diagnosis
• standardise assessment to improve equity in allocation of resources
• be funded through the NDIS, enabling equity of access for those with limited financial means.

For more information, see the NDIS website.