If you’ve ever wondered who is eligible for NDIS, you’re not alone. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides essential funding for Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. To access this support, applicants must meet the specific eligibility criteria set by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
At Axial Plan Management, we help participants understand these rules and prepare applications that meet NDIA standards.
Key Eligibility Criteria
To be approved, you must satisfy all of the following conditions.
1. Age Requirement
You must be between 7 and 65 years old at the time of application. People under 7 can access assistance through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) approach.
2. Residency Status
Applicants must be:
- An Australian citizen, or
- A permanent resident, or
- A Protected Special Category Visa holder.
If you’re unsure about residency requirements, review our guide for more detail.
3. Disability Requirement
Your disability must be permanent and significantly affect your ability to:
- Work or study
- Engage socially or in the community
- Manage everyday personal activities
Conditions may be physical, intellectual, cognitive, neurological, sensory, or psychosocial.
4. Early Intervention Access
You may also qualify if early intervention could lessen the future impact of your disability.
What the NDIS Considers
The NDIS assesses:
- Medical reports from health professionals
- Functional assessments showing the impact on daily life
- Support history, including both formal and informal help
Organising these documents is crucial. Our article on budget planning explains how evidence ties into funding.
How to Apply Once Eligible
Once you confirm who is eligible for NDIS, the next step is the access request process.
Step 1: Gather Evidence
Collect proof of identity, professional health reports, and written examples of daily challenges.
Step 2: Obtain the Access Form
Request it via phone, in person, or online from the NDIS. Some sections will need input from a qualified practitioner.
Step 3: Submit the Application
You can send it by email, post, or in person. A coordinator can help ensure everything is accurate and complete.
Common Myths
Misunderstandings about who is eligible for NDIS are common:
- Myth: Only visible disabilities qualify.
Truth: Many invisible conditions meet the criteria. - Myth: Income affects eligibility.
Truth: The NDIS is not means-tested. - Myth: Age is not a factor.
Truth: You must be between 7 and 65 years old.
Why Eligibility Checks Matter
Submitting an application without meeting the core requirements wastes time and delays access to support. Confirming eligibility first ensures you can focus on preparing strong evidence.
Avoid pitfalls by reviewing our tips for preventing mistakes in applications.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Provide specific examples of how your disability affects your life.
- Include clear supporting documents from professionals.
- Keep records of all correspondence.
- Seek help from an experienced manager to ensure your submission is thorough.
- Submit complete evidence to avoid delays.
FAQs – Who Is Eligible for NDIS
What age do you have to be?
Between 7 and 65.
Do I need to be an Australian citizen?
Yes, or a permanent resident, or a Protected Special Category Visa holder.
Can I get NDIS for mental health?
Yes, if the condition is permanent and significantly affects daily activities.
Does income affect eligibility?
No, income is not considered in eligibility decisions.
Conclusion
Understanding who is eligible for NDIS is the first step toward gaining the funding and support you deserve. Meeting the requirements for age, residency, and disability ensures your application can progress without unnecessary obstacles.
Axial Plan Management is committed to helping participants navigate the NDIS with confidence and clarity.
When you’re ready to confirm eligibility or start the application process, connect with us through the contact us page and take the first step toward securing your NDIS funding.