The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a transformative program designed to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve their goals, participate in the community, and improve their quality of life. However, for families new to the NDIS, understanding the application process, funding categories, and plan management can feel overwhelming. The NDIS website is a valuable resource for families seeking more information about the NDIS. 

This guide provides a clear, detailed roadmap to help families navigate the NDIS with confidence and clarity. At Bloom Healthcare, we’ve supported many families through this process, ensuring they access the services they need to succeed. 

What Is the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and How Does It Work? 

The NDIS is an Australian government initiative that provides funding for reasonable and necessary support to people with permanent and significant disabilities. Key principles include: 

• Individualised Support: Participants’ plans are tailored to their unique needs and goals. 

• Choice and Control: Participants can choose how their funding is used and which providers they work with. 

• Capacity Building: The NDIS focuses on building skills and independence to improve long-term outcomes. 

The NDIS provides various disability supports, including those for individuals with psychosocial disability. 

The scheme is administered by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), which oversees eligibility, planning, and funding processes. 

Understanding NDIS Eligibility Criteria for Permanent and Significant Disability 

To qualify for the NDIS, individuals must meet specific criteria: 

1. Age: Applicants must be under 65 years old when applying. 

2. Residency: Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa. 

3. Disability or Developmental Delay: 

• • The disability must be permanent (lifelong) and significantly impact the person’s ability to participate in everyday activities. 

• • For children under six, developmental delays that require early intervention may also qualify. 

Key Consideration: Eligibility focuses on the functional impact of the disability rather than the diagnosis alone. For example, two people with cerebral palsy may have vastly different needs, depending on how the condition affects their daily lives. Understanding and accessing disability support services is crucial to ensure that each individual’s unique needs are met effectively. 

Eligibility focuses on the functional impact of the disability rather than the diagnosis alone

How to Apply for NDIS Funding 

Applying for the NDIS involves several steps: 

1. Making an Access Request: Contact the NDIA by phone (1800 800 110) or email to request an Access Request Form (ARF). Families with young children can also contact an Early Childhood Partner for assistance. 

2. Providing Supporting Evidence: Collect documents that demonstrate the nature and impact of the disability. This may include: 

• • Medical reports or letters from specialists. 

• • Therapy assessments, such as those from speech pathologists or occupational therapists. 

• • Functional capacity assessments detailing how the disability affects daily activities. 

3. Submitting the Application: Submit the completed ARF and supporting documents. The NDIA may request additional information or arrange an independent assessment if necessary. 

4. Outcome Notification: Once the NDIA reviews the application, they will notify you of the decision. If eligibility is confirmed, creating a personalised NDIS plan is the next step. 

Understanding the necessary steps for accessing NDIS support and the resources available to assist applicants is crucial for a smooth application process. 

Preparing for Your First NDIS Planning Meeting 

The planning meeting is a pivotal step in which you work with an NDIA planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to develop a personalised plan. This is your opportunity to outline goals and advocate for the support your loved one needs. 

Steps to Prepare: 

• Set Clear Goals: Think about what you or your loved one wants to achieve. Examples include improving mobility, learning new skills, or participating in community activities. 

• List Current Supports: Document the help you currently receive, both formal (e.g., therapies) and informal (e.g., family assistance). 

• Identify Challenges: Be prepared to discuss areas where additional support is needed, such as communication, self-care, or transportation. 

• Bring Evidence: Any supporting documents, such as assessments or medical reports, can strengthen your case. 

• Understand Support Coordination: Recognisze the role of support coordination in facilitating access to necessary resources and implementing the NDIS plan effectively. 

Bloom Healthcare can help families prepare for planning meetings, ensuring they articulate their needs effectively. 

Understanding NDIS Plans and Funding Categories 

Every NDIS plan is broken into three primary funding categories: 

1. Core Supports: 

• Assists with everyday activities, such as personal care, domestic help, and transportation. 

• Funding in this category is flexible and can be used across various supports. 

2. Capital Supports: 

• Covers assistive technology (e.g., wheelchairs, hearing aids) and home modifications (e.g., ramps, bathroom alterations). 

• Requires specific approval based on detailed recommendations from allied health professionals. 

3. Capacity Building Supports: 

• Focuses on skill development and independence, including therapies (e.g., speech pathology, occupational therapy), employment supports, and social participation programs. 

If NDIS support goes wrong, you can report complaints and seek assistance from the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. 

At Bloom Healthcare, our services align with capacity-building funding, empowering participants to achieve their goals through tailored therapy plans. 

At Bloom Healthcare, our services align with capacity-building funding, empowering participants to achieve their goals through tailored therapy plans

How to Choose Service Providers That Meet Your Needs 

Choosing the right provider is essential for achieving positive outcomes. Consider the following: 

• NDIS Registration: Ensure the provider is registered if your plan is NDIA-managed. 

• Expertise: Look for providers experienced in addressing the specific challenges and goals of the participant. 

• Flexibility: Check if services are offered in-home, in the community, or via telehealth. 

At Bloom Healthcare, we pride ourselves on being an NDIS-registered provider with a multidisciplinary team offering personalised allied health services. 

Managing and Reviewing Your NDIS Plan 

Once your plan is approved, effective management ensures you get the most out of your funding. You can choose one of three management options: 

1. Self-Managed: You handle payments, budgeting, and record-keeping independently. 

2. Plan-Managed: A registered plan manager assists with financial administration. 

3. NDIA-Managed: The NDIA pays providers directly. 

Plan Reviews:
Plans are reviewed annually to assess progress and adjust support. If circumstances change (e.g., health decline, new goals), you can request a Change-of-Circumstances Review anytime. 

What to Do if Your Needs Change 

Life is unpredictable, and the NDIS recognises that participants’ needs may evolve. If you experience: 

• A significant health event. 

• A new diagnosis. 

• Changes in living arrangements or goals. 

You can request a plan review by submitting evidence (e.g., updated assessments) to the NDIA. 

Bloom Healthcare assists families in documenting these changes and advocating for necessary adjustments. 

Bloom Healthcare assists families in documenting these changes and advocating for necessary adjustments. 

The Role of Support Coordination, Support Coordinators, and Plan Managers 

Support Coordinators: Help participants connect with service providers, explore funding options, and navigate the NDIS system. 

Plan Managers: Handle the financial administration of your plan, ensuring invoices are paid and budgets tracked. 

Not all plans automatically include funding for these roles, so discuss your needs during the planning process. Delivering disability support services involves collaboration between the Commonwealth and state and territory governments, ensuring shared responsibilities and effective service provision. 

Navigating the NDIS Portal and Tools 

The MyPlace portal is an essential tool for NDIS participants. Accessible via MyGov, it allows you to: 

• View your NDIS plan. 

• Track spending and manage budgets. 

• Request service bookings. 

The NDIA offers guidance materials for families new to the portal, and providers like Bloom Healthcare can help participants effectively navigate its features.  

Challenges Families May Face and How to Overcome Them 

Common challenges include: 

• Understanding Funding: Seek clarification from your LAC or support coordinator. 

• Accessing Services: Consider telehealth or alternative options if providers are unavailable. 

• Delays in Reviews: Submit complete and thorough evidence to minimise processing times. 

• Appealing NDIS Decisions: If dissatisfied with the internal review decision by the NDIA, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) within 28 days. This process is accessible and may offer alternative resolutions before a tribunal hearing. 

Bloom Healthcare supports families overcoming these challenges by providing clear advice and reliable services. 

Bloom Healthcare supports families overcoming these challenges by providing clear advice and reliable services. 

The NDIS and Early Childhood Approach 

The Early Childhood Approach provides specialised early intervention services for children under six. Families work with Early Childhood Partners to access short-term support or apply for long-term NDIS funding. 

Our early intervention team at Bloom Healthcare offers Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Behavioural Support and other Services tailored to young children’s developmental needs. 

The NDIS offers people with disabilities a pathway to greater independence and participation, but understanding the process is key to maximising it. Each step requires careful navigation, from eligibility and planning to accessing services and managing plans. 

At Bloom Healthcare, we are committed to guiding families through the NDIS journey with expertise and care, ensuring participants achieve their goals and thrive in their communities.