FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is NDIS?
The NDIS is Australia’s frst national scheme for people with disability.It moves away from the previous system of providing block funding to agenciesand community organisations, to give funding directly to people with adisability.
NDIS - What does it mean?
N – National
The NDIS is available across Australia.
D – Disability
The NDIS provides support to eligible people with intellectual, physical, sensory,cognitive and psychosocial disability. Early intervention supports can also beprovided for eligible people with disability or children with developmental delay.
I – Insurance
The NDIS gives Australians peace of mind that if they, their child or loved one isborn with, or acquires a permanent and signifcant disability, they will get the support they need.
S – Scheme
The NDIS is designed to help people get the support they need so their skills
and independence improve over time. The NDIS is not a welfare system.
What does the NDIS do?
The NDIS provides reasonable and necessary funding to people with a permanent and signifcant disability to access the supports and services they need to live and enjoy their life. Every NDIS participant has an individual plan that lists their goals and funding. NDIS participants use their funding to purchase supports and services to help them achieve their goals. Everyone has different goals. Goals might include things like volunteering, getting and keeping a job, making friends or participating in a local community activity. NDIS participants and their nominee or third party decision makers control the support they receive, when they receive it and who provides it.
The NDIS cannot fund a support that is:
• The responsibility of another government system or community service
• Not related to a person’s disability
How does the NDIS support families and carers?
Although the NDIS primarily supports people with permanent and signifcant disability, their NDIS-funded supports and services may also have a direct or indirect beneft for families and carers. Families and carers provide help and support that could otherwise be provided by formal services or paid support workers.
They are often one of the greatest advocates for people with disabilities, providing practical and emotional support to help them live their best life.
In addition to the government-funded programs available to support carers, you might use funding in your plan to facilitate respite. For more information on respite, visit ndis.gov.au.
Your LAC, ECEI Coordinator or the NDIA can also give you information about supports available to you underother government-funded programs, including counselling and carer support groups in your community.
Is the NDIS linked to the Disability Support Pension?
No.
The Disability Support Pension (DSP) is separate to the NDIS. If you are receiving the DSP, this does not mean you are automatically eligible for the NDIS. You will still need to check your eligibility and apply for the NDIS. Similarly, if you receive NDIS funding, it will not impact any income support you receive, such as the DSP or Carer Allowance.
Does the NDIS replace other government and community services?
No.
Other government and community services continue to be responsible for providing assistance to all Australians and ensuring their services are inclusive and accessible for people with disability. Your LAC or ECEI Coordinator may be able to tell you what is available in your area and help you access them. Other government services include local councils, hospitals, libraries, health centres, public transport or schools.
Community services and activities could include community groups, sporting clubs and charities within your local community. Businesses also have an important role to play in providing a welcoming and accessible environment for everyone, this includes cafes, workplaces and shopping centres.