The NDIS website suggests that if you believe you are eligible, the first step is to phone the NDIA, which runs the scheme, on 1800 800 110 and make an Access Request. When you call, you’ll need to confirm your identity and will be asked questions to verify your residency and eligibility. If you’re already receiving disability support services, the NDIA will contact you when NDIS funding becomes available in your area, if it isn’t already.

During the application process, you will be asked to provide evidence of your disability. This may include documents confirming your primary disability, how this disability impacts different areas of your life, descriptions of past treatments and outcomes, and future treatment options and the expected outcomes of these. This evidence can be completed by your treating health professional such as a GP, Paediatrician, psychologist or allied health practitioner. This evidence should also include your date of diagnosis, details about how long the disability will last, and the treatments that are available.

If your application is accepted, you will then attend a planning meeting, where your needs and goals will be discussed. Be sure to take any relevant reports or assessments along with you to this meeting, so the resulting plan is right for your needs. After the meeting, the NDIA will process and approve your plan, and your ECEI co-ordinator, LAC or NDIA planner will let you know when this is complete.