Understanding the NDIS
Understanding the NDIS, made simpler
The NDIS can involve new terms, processes and decisions. This guide provides a simple overview of how the NDIS works, what an NDIS plan may involve and where you can find more information when you need it.
In this guide
- What the NDIS is
- How the NDIS journey can work
- What your plan may include
- How funding can be managed
- Where to find official information
The basics
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support to eligible Australians with permanent and significant disability. It's designed to help people pursue their goals, participate in their community and access supports that are reasonable and necessary in relation to their disability.
NDIS stands for
National Disability Insurance Scheme
How it works
A simple view of the NDIS journey
Step 1
Check eligibility
Learn about the NDIS access requirements and whether you may be eligible.
Step 2
Apply
If appropriate, an access request can be made and supporting information may be required.
Step 3
Planning
If you become an NDIS participant, your goals and support needs help inform your plan.
Step 4
Use and review your plan
Understand your funded supports, choose how to use them and prepare for future plan changes or reviews.
Everyone's NDIS journey is different — the steps above are a general guide rather than a fixed or identical process for every participant.
Your plan
Understanding what may be in your NDIS plan
Every NDIS plan is different. Depending on your individual circumstances, your plan may include some or all of the following.
Your goals
The things you want to work towards in everyday life, independence, community participation or other areas important to you.
Funded supports
Supports included in your plan that relate to your individual circumstances and approved funding.
Budgets
Funding may be organised into different support categories or budgets.
Using your plan
Your plan can help guide which providers and supports you choose within the conditions of your funding.
Managing your plan
Different ways NDIS funding can be managed
NDIA-managed
The NDIA manages your funding directly, and the providers you use generally need to be NDIS registered.
Plan-managed
A plan manager handles the financial side of your plan on your behalf, which can offer more flexibility in the providers you choose.
Self-managed
You manage your own funding and payments directly, giving you more direct control over your supports.
Some participants may use more than one management option across their plan. Read more about managing your plan on the official NDIS website (opens in a new tab).
Questions to consider
Questions that can help you understand your plan
- What goals are included in my plan?
- What supports are funded?
- How is my funding managed?
- Are there conditions around how particular funding can be used?
- When should I seek clarification about my plan?
- Who can help me understand my options?
Providence & the NDIS
A registered NDIS provider
Providence is a registered NDIS provider. We work alongside participants to understand their goals, explore appropriate supports and make informed choices about the support they receive.
Provider Reg. 4-3LLK-2191
How Providence can help
Support for your next step
If you would like help understanding your plan, preparing for an NDIS conversation or exploring suitable supports, Providence can work alongside you based on your individual circumstances.
Support Coordination
A guide who helps you understand your plan and connect with the right providers.
Learn more about Support Coordination
NDIS Application Assistance
Help applying for the NDIS, so the process reflects what you need.
Learn more about NDIS Application Assistance
NDIS Plan Review Assistance
Support to make sure your next NDIS plan reflects your current needs.
Learn more about NDIS Plan Review Assistance
Official NDIS information
Looking for official NDIS information?
NDIS information, processes and guidance can change. For current information about eligibility, applying, planning and managing your NDIS plan, visit the official NDIS website.
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Need help understanding your NDIS plan?
Talk with Providence about your circumstances, your goals and the support you're looking for.