What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian government initiative that provides funding and support to people with permanent and significant disabilities. The NDIS helps individuals access the services, equipment, and resources they need to live an independent and fulfilling life, with a focus on personal choice and control.
What does the NDIS fund?
The NDIS will fund reasonable and necessary services, items and equipment that relate to your disability (the disability that meets the NDIS access criteria). Examples include:
- support workers to help you in the home or community,
- aids and equipment (for example, wheelchair, hoists, cognitive aids),
- home modifications (for example, grab rails or widening a doorway for a wheelchair),
- supports to help you maintain function and build skills (for example, occupational therapy),
- support with household tasks you’re not able to do yourself (for example, meal preparation, cleaning, laundry, yard maintenance), and
- coordination of supports.
Note: The NDIS does not fund medical treatments or therapies – only disability support.
Who can apply for the NDIS?
You may be eligible for the NDIS if you:
- are aged 9 to 65,
- live in Australia and are a citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa,
- have a disability that is likely permanent, and
- have a substantial reduction in your functional capacity (your ability to do daily activities).
Where can I find out more and get help?
NDIS
The NDIS website will have the most up-to-date information and resources on how to apply.
Access the NDIS website here: https://www.ndis.gov.au/
Local area coordinators (LACs)
Local area coordinators (LACs) are NDIS partners that can help with the NDIS application process and connect you to local disability services.
Find your local NDIS partner office here to contact your LAC: https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact/locations.
Emerge Australia’s NDIS resources
Applying to the NDIS Factsheet
This factsheet provides a brief overview of what the NDIS is, Emerge Australia’s NDIS resources and our recommended steps to preparing a strong application.
NDIS online learning module
This free, self-paced online module is designed to support people living with ME/CFS and long COVID in preparing a strong NDIS application. It includes:
- an overview of the NDIS and eligibility criteria
- step-by-step instructions on how to prepare an application
- explanation of the common issues experienced by people living with ME/CFS and long COVID
- a recorded presentation
- downloadable worksheets to help you prepare your information
- a template letter for health professionals.
Live question and answer sessions
We run regular live Q&A sessions for people living with ME/CFS or long COVID, as well as their supporters, who are preparing to apply for the NDIS.
These sessions are designed for people who have already viewed the recorded presentation in the NDIS learning module and have further questions.
Please watch the recorded session before attending a live question and answer session.
The sessions run for 45 minutes, but you’re welcome to leave earlier if needed.
Support and Telehealth Service
Emerge Australia’s Support and Telehealth Service can answer general questions and provide feedback on reports from your health team.
Please note: Our service provides general support only. We do not have the resources to provide individual (one-to-one) advocacy or generate a written report for your DSP application.