Does the thought of applying for NDIS funding feel a bit too daunting for you?
It’s completely understandable, but won’t worry – once you understand the process, it’s actually pretty straightforward.
We’re here to help simplify the application process so you can get the support you need.
Am I eligible for NDIS funding?
If you’re not sure if you qualify for NDIS funding and want to read about eligibility requirements in depth, make sure to check out our previous blog.
For a quick summary, key eligibility requirements for NDIS funding include:
- You must have a permanent disability or condition that significantly impacts your daily life
- You must be under the age of 65.
- You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
- You must reside in Australia.
- You must demonstrate that you require support from the NDIS to perform daily activities or achieve specific goals.
- You must provide supporting documentation and medical evidence of your disability or condition.
- Your disability or condition must be likely to be permanent or have a significant impact on your life for at least 12 months.
- Your disability or condition must not be solely attributable to ageing.
- You must not be receiving support through other government programs for the same purpose as the NDIS.
- Your disability or condition must not be due to an injury covered by workers’ compensation or motor accident insurance.
Preparing your application
Once you’ve established your eligibility, it’s time to prepare and submit your application.
Step 1. Gather supporting documents
When it comes to applying for NDIS funding through the NDIA, preparation is key.
Having all your supporting documents ready can make the application process smoother and less stressful.
These documents can include proof of your age, residency, disability, or need for early intervention.
So, take the time to gather all the necessary documents beforehand to ensure a successful application process.
Proof of your disability
The NDIA requires proof of your disability that is recent and clearly indicates the impacts of your disability.
Your treating health professional can help you provide evidence of your disability.
This can be your general practitioner, paediatrician, surgeon, sleep pathologist, psychologist or another health professional.
When working with your treating health professional, it’s important to gather documents that prove the following:
- You have or are likely to have a permanent disability.
- The type of disability you have.
- The date you were diagnosed with your disability.
- How long will the disability last.
- Available treatments.
- The impacts of your disability on your life — including mobility, communication, social, learning, self-care and self-management.
Proof of your age
The NDIA will require you to prove your age.
If you’re a Centrelink customer, this is a simple process of giving consent for the NDIA to check your Centrelink record.
If you’re not a Centrelink customer or don’t wish to give consent for checking your Centrelink record, you can send the following documents to verify your age:
- Birth certificate
- Current passport personal information page (with a photo)
- Proof of age card
- Drivers licence
Proof of residency
The NDIA will also require proof of your residency.
Again, if you’re a Centrelink member and are happy to give consent for the NDIA to check your records, this can be a simple way to prove your residency.
If you’re not a Centrelink customer or don’t want to permit your records to be checked, you can send the following documents to verify your residency:
- Birth certificate.
- Australian citizen or naturalisation certificate.
- A foreign passport or travel document that includes a valid Australian Permanent Residency Visa or Protected Special Category Visa.
Step 2: Fill out the access request form
Once you’ve gathered all of your supporting documents, you’re ready to make your application for the NDIS.
There are several ways in which you can complete the access request form:
- Call 1800 800 110 and make a verbal access request.
- Download the access request form online, fill it out on your computer and email it to the NDIA.
- Download the access request form, print it out, fill it out by hand and mail it to the NDIA
- Email [email protected] and ask for a copy of the access request form to be mailed to you.
- Contact your local NDIA office and ask for a copy of the access request form to be mailed to you.
The access request form is a detailed document that will take some time to fill out.
There are sections that will need to be completed by your treating professional, as well as a section to be filled out by yourself.
You’ll also need to sign and date the document, this can be done digitally or by hand.
Step 3: Attach your supporting documents
The next step is to send the supporting documents you’ve gathered already.
There are two options for sending your supporting documents:
- Email to [email protected]
- Post to GPO Box 700, Canberra, ACT 2601
An important note: CDs and USB devices cannot be accepted, so ensure all supporting documents are printed and easily accessible.
In some cases, the NDIA may request more supporting evidence.
If this is the case, somebody from the NDIA will reach out and ask you to complete a new supporting evidence form.
This form can be delivered by email, post or dropped off at your local NDIA office.
What can you expect after submitting your application?
- Once you submit your application, you’ll receive an acknowledgement from the NDIA.
- They’ll also let you know if they require any further information or documents from you.
- Your application will be reviewed and assessed by the NDIA. They’ll use this information to determine your eligibility.
- The response time on applications is relatively quick — the NDIA must respond within 21 days after receiving a valid access request.
- If the NDIA needs to request more supporting documents, the process could take a little longer.
- If your application is not approved or you’re unhappy with the decision, you have the right to appeal or make a complaint.
- The NDIA has an appeals and complaints process in place to help you navigate this challenging situation.
Making the most of your NDIS funding
Once your access request has been approved, you’ll work with a local area coordinator or early childhood partner to create an NDIS plan that outlines the supports and funds you need to achieve your goals. Once your plan is approved you’ll receive your NDIS funding and will be ready to start accessing services.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your NDIS funding:
- Engage an NDIS plan manager to help you understand your NDIS plan, pay your providers quickly and keep track of your budget. You can request plan management during your planning meeting by advising your LAC or planner of your choice. If your NDIS plan is on the new PACE system you will need to contact the NDIS (on 1800 800 110) to tell them who your chosen plan manager is and endorse them as your plan manager.
- If your NDIS plan includes funding for a support coordinator you can engage someone to assist you with finding the right local supports and work through any challenges
- Take the time to carefully review your NDIS plan and budget to ensure that it aligns with your goals and needs. If you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your plan manager or support coordinator for guidance.
- When selecting service providers and support solutions, it’s important to consider your unique goals and needs. Choose providers who have experience working with individuals with similar needs and who share your vision for achieving your goals.
- Consider creating service agreements with your providers that outline what and how supports will be delivered and the cost. This ensures you can allocate sufficient funds in your NDIS plan for the supports you require reducing the risk of over or under spending.
Do you need help with your NDIS application?
Applying for the NDIS can be complicated, but luckily, there is support available.
If you require help to make your application, you can reach out to your early childhood partner (for children under seven years), your local area coordinator or your local NDIA office for assistance in creating and submitting your application.
MyIntegra can help
We offer plan management and support coordination for NDIS participants. We can help you to get the most out of your plan and ensure that everything runs smoothly along the way.
Once you’ve been approved for your NDIS plan, we encourage you to contact us here at MyIntegra for further assistance.
With the right partner by your side, your NDIS journey get’s a whole lot easier.
Call our friendly team on 1800 696 347 for Plan Management or 1300 937 187 for Support Coordination to find out how MyIntegra can help you make the most out of your NDIS plan.
