What is the NDIS?
Understanding the NDIS
More than funding. A new way of living.
The NDIS was established to change the way Australians with disability are supported. Instead of a one-size-fits-all system, the NDIS gives you choice and control over the supports you receive.
Your NDIS plan is personalised to your goals. Whether you want to live more independently, learn new skills, join community activities, or find employment - your plan funds the supports that help you get there.
As an NDIS registered provider, Access Solutions Care helps participants across Victoria understand their plans, connect with the right supports, and build lives they love.
Key principles of the NDIS
-
Choice and control
You decide which providers you use and how your funding is spent.
-
Goal-focused
Your plan is built around your personal goals, not your diagnosis.
-
Community inclusion
Funding supports you to participate fully in community life.
-
Capacity building
Funding is designed to build your skills and independence over time.
Your NDIS Journey
From eligibility to independence.
The NDIS journey follows a clear path. Here is what to expect at each stage.
Get in touchCheck eligibility
The NDIS is available to Australians under 65 with a permanent and significant disability that affects how you do everyday activities.
Access request
Contact the NDIA to request access. You will need to provide evidence of your disability and how it impacts your daily life.
Planning meeting
Meet with an NDIS planner or LAC to discuss your goals, needs, and current supports. This shapes your personalised NDIS plan.
Plan approval
Your plan is approved with funding across three budget categories: Core, Capacity Building, and Capital Supports.
Implement your plan
You receive your plan and start connecting with registered providers. This is where Support Coordination can help.
Review & adjust
Plans are reviewed annually. You and your provider assess progress, set new goals, and adjust funding for the year ahead.
NDIS Funding Categories
How your funding is structured.
NDIS plans are divided into three budget categories. Understanding them helps you make the most of your funding.
Core Supports
Daily activities, consumables, transport, and assistance with social and community participation. Most flexible budget category.
Capacity Building
Support Coordination, improved living arrangements, increased social and community participation, skills development, and health and wellbeing.
Capital Supports
Assistive technology, equipment, home modifications, and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). Higher-cost, long-term items.
Pro tip: Flexible spending
Core Supports funding is the most flexible. You can move funding between Core categories to suit your changing needs. Capacity Building and Capital funds are more restricted to their specific purpose.
NDIS Myths vs Facts
Separating myth from fact.
There is a lot of misinformation about the NDIS. Here are the most common myths and the real facts behind them.
Myth
The NDIS only covers medical care
Fact
The NDIS funds supports that help you with everyday life, independence, and community participation - not medical treatment. Things like support workers, therapy, equipment, home modifications, and social activities are all covered.
Myth
The NDIS is managed by the government
Fact
The NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) administers the scheme, but you choose your own providers. You have full choice and control over who supports you and how your funding is used.
Myth
You lose your other government payments
Fact
NDIS funding is not income. It does not affect your Centrelink payments, Disability Support Pension, or other government benefits. NDIS support is additional to these.
Myth
Once approved, the funding never changes
Fact
NDIS plans are reviewed annually. Your funding can increase, decrease, or change based on your evolving goals, needs, and circumstances.
Need help understanding the NDIS?
Whether you are applying for the first time or reviewing your existing plan, we can help you navigate every step and connect with the right supports.
FAQ
Common NDIS questions.
You may be eligible if you are under 65, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and have a permanent and significant disability that affects your ability to take part in everyday activities. The NDIA assesses eligibility based on evidence provided by your healthcare professional.
Funding is individualised based on your goals, needs, and circumstances. There is no set amount - your plan is designed around what is reasonable and necessary to help you achieve your goals and live independently.
Yes. The NDIS gives you choice and control over your supports. You can select any registered NDIS provider that meets your needs. You can also change providers if you are not satisfied.
The NDIS supports people under 65 with disability. My Aged Care supports older Australians (65+) with aged care needs. If you are over 65 with a disability, you may access the aged care system instead.
Most NDIS plans run for 12 months. After that, you have a plan review to assess your progress, update your goals, and adjust your funding for the next period.
Yes. You can choose to be plan-managed (a plan manager handles financials), agency-managed (NDIA manages), or self-managed (you manage everything yourself). A mix of options is also possible.
Ready to begin your NDIS journey
We are here to help you Understand the NDIS.
Whether you are new to the NDIS or looking for a better provider, start a conversation with us today. No obligation, just clear advice.