What Is the NDIS? A Guide for Queensland.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (the NDIS) is the Australian government's funding scheme for people with permanent and significant disability. It funds reasonable and necessary supports to help you live as independently as possible and work towards your goals. This guide explains how the NDIS works in plain language.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for the NDIS you must:
- Be under 65 years of age when you first apply
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident or Protected Special Category Visa holder
- Have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to take part in everyday activities
The NDIS covers a wide range of physical, intellectual, cognitive, neurological, sensory and psychosocial disabilities. Eligibility is determined by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
What can the NDIS fund?
The NDIS funds 'reasonable and necessary' supports across three budget categories:
Core Supports
Everyday supports such as personal care, in-home assistance, community access and transport.
Capacity Building
Supports that help you build independence and skills, including support coordination, allied health therapy and employment support.
Capital Supports
Assistive technology, home modifications and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).
Getting started with the NDIS.
- Step 1
Check eligibility at ndis.gov.au or call the NDIS on 1800 800 110.
- Step 2
Submit an Access Request Form with evidence of your disability from your treating doctor or specialist.
- Step 3
If approved, you'll have a planning meeting with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to develop your plan.
- Step 4
Receive your approved NDIS plan with funding across the relevant support categories.
- Step 5
Choose your service providers and begin receiving support.
Choosing an NDIS provider in Queensland.
You have the right to choose your own NDIS providers. When comparing providers, consider:
- Are they a registered NDIS provider? (Registered providers have been audited against the NDIS Practice Standards.)
- Do they have experience with your specific disability or support needs?
- Can they provide consistent workers, not a different person every shift?
- How do they handle complaints and incidents?
- Do they communicate clearly with you and your support coordinator?
First Priority Care is a registered NDIS provider in Queensland (ID: 4-J8DTEN1). We'd be happy to answer any questions about whether our services are the right fit for you. Get in touch →
Frequently asked questions: About the NDIS.
Let's build a care plan that works for you.
Speak with our care team about your NDIS plan, your goals, and how we can help.