How to Apply for the NDIS: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you or someone you care for is living with a permanent and significant disability, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) could offer vital support to help you live more independently, achieve your goals, and connect with your community. But for many, the process of applying can feel confusing or overwhelming.

We’ve put together a simple, step-by-step guide to help you understand what’s involved in applying for the NDIS, what to prepare, and where to get help if you need it.

Step 1: Check if you’re eligible

Before applying, you’ll need to make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria. To access the NDIS, you must:

Be under 65 years old at the time of your application
Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
Have a permanent and significant disability that affects your ability to take part in everyday activities

You can check your eligibility using the NDIS Access Checklist on the official NDIS website.

Step 2: Gather supporting information

The NDIS will need evidence that your disability is permanent and that it significantly impacts your daily life. Helpful documents might include:

Reports from health professionals (GP, occupational therapist, psychologist, etc.)
Medical or diagnostic reports (e.g. from a specialist)
A functional assessment, showing how your disability affects you day-to-day

The more detailed and specific this information is, the smoother your application process will be.

Tip: Ask your health professionals to include information about how your disability impacts your communication, mobility, social interaction, learning, and self-care.

Step 3: Make an Access Request

You can apply to the NDIS by making what’s called an Access Request. There are a few ways to do this:

Call 1800 800 110 to request an Access Request Form
Download the form from the NDIS website
Visit your local NDIS or partner office

If you need help filling out the form, a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or a family member, friend, or support person can assist.

Step 4: Submit your application

Once your Access Request Form is filled out and you’ve attached all your supporting evidence, you can submit your application:

By post
In person at a local NDIS or partner office
By emailing it to the address provided on the form

After submission, the NDIS may contact you for more information or clarification. They’ll then assess your application, which can take up to 21 days (sometimes longer if further information is needed).

Step 5: Receive a decision

Once a decision has been made, the NDIS will contact you with the outcome:

If you’re approved, you’ll move on to creating your first NDIS Plan
If you’re not approved, you’ll receive a written letter explaining the reasons and your right to request a review of the decision

If you’re unhappy with the outcome, you can request an internal review or seek support from a disability advocate.

Need Help? You’re not alone

Applying for the NDIS can feel daunting, but support is available. You don’t have to do it alone:

Local Area Coordinators (LACs) can guide you through the process
Support coordinators or disability advocates can help with paperwork and planning
NDIS partners in the community can assist with access and understanding your rights

The NDIS supports Australians with disability to live fuller, more connected lives. While the application process may seem overwhelming at first, taking it one step at a time, and reaching out for help if you need it, can make the journey much easier.

If you’re thinking about applying, now’s the time to start. The support you receive could change your life.