The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) establishes eligibility criteria and delivers comprehensive support services to individuals with disabilities across Australia. As a government-funded initiative, the NDIS is designed to enhance independence, improve quality of life, and offer personalised assistance tailored to individual needs.

By addressing diverse disabilities—including physical, intellectual, sensory, and psychosocial—the NDIS fosters inclusivity, ensuring that individuals can actively participate in their communities. Through funding, resources, and service access, the program empowers people to lead fulfilling lives, making a significant impact on disability support across Australia.

To receive NDIS assistance, applicants must meet specific NDIS Eligibility Criteria

This guide outlines who qualifies for NDIS Eligibility Criteria.

1. Age and Residency Requirements

To qualify for NDIS support, individuals must meet age and residency conditions:

• Eligible applicants must be between 7 and 65 years old.
• Guidance from a local area coordinator can help navigate the application process.
• Children under 7 years can be assessed with the assistance of an early childhood partner to determine suitability for NDIS support.
• Individuals must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or holders of a Protected Special Category Visa.
• Residency in Australia is required for eligibility.

2. Disability Requirements

An individual’s eligibility is assessed based on disability-related criteria, including:

• Permanent impairments caused by birth conditions, disease, injury, or accident.
• Impairments must be expected to last long-term without significant improvement.
• Disability must substantially impact mobility, communication, learning, self-care, social interactions, and community participation.
• The impairment must affect an individual’s ability to work, study, or engage socially.
• Lifelong support is typically required for those with permanent disabilities.
• Diagnosis of conditions listed under List A or List B may confirm eligibility.

3. Early Intervention Requirements

NDIS prioritises early intervention, reducing the long-term need for extensive support:

• If current assistance can minimise future challenges, early intervention funding may be granted.
• Families requiring support to develop skills for caregiving may also meet eligibility criteria.

4. List A and List B Conditions

The NDIS provides guidance on medical conditions likely to result in lifelong impairment. Examples include:

• Intellectual disabilities
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (including autism and Asperger’s syndrome)
• Permanent physical impairments such as hemiparesis or severe emphysema

This list is not exhaustive; other conditions may also qualify for support.

Types of NDIS Support

The NDIS funds various support categories tailored to individual needs:

Core Supports

These assist with daily living activities, including:

• Household tasks
• Consumable items
• Transport services
• Social and community participation

Capital Supports

Funding for assistive technologies, home modifications, and vehicle adjustments, including:

• Equipment
• Specialist Disability Accommodation

Capacity Building Supports

Supports aimed at increasing independence and skills, including:

• Employment-related assistance
• Therapy support
• Carer training
• Coordination services

Disability-Related Health Supports

Specialised health assistance based on an individual’s needs, including:

• Nurse-delegated tasks
• Medical management services

Informal Supports

Acknowledging the importance of family and carer contributions, the NDIS encourages:

• Strengthening family caregiving capacity
• Building sustainable informal support networks

Conclusion

The NDIS remains a cornerstone of disability support in Australia, providing essential services and funding. NDIS Eligibility Criteria is determined by age, residency, disability status, and early intervention needs.

If you or someone you know meets these requirements, contacting the NDIS or consulting healthcare experts is recommended to initiate the application process.