Top 4 Tips to Maximise NDIS Funding

Did you know that around 25% of secured funding goes unspent?

Since the National Disability Insurance Scheme started in 2013, it has been implemented to make it fairer for Australian's with a disability to access funding.

However, confusion still remains around the NDIS specifically around who’s eligible, what types of things can be paid for, and how you secure funding.

That's why we've done the research on some of the most important things you need to know to get the most from the NDIS program and secure funding:

1. Are you eligible
To be eligible for the NDIS, you need to reside in an approved geographical area in Australia - you can view the NDIS map here.

You also need to meet the eligibility criteria, which includes:

• Aged between 7 to 65 years (for under 7 years of age, click here)
• Live in Australia
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Special Category Visa holder
• Have a permanent or significant disability or need support to reduce your likelihood of support down the track
• You usually need disability-specific supports to complete daily life activities

If you’re not sure whether you or a family member qualify for the NDIS, you can call the National Disability Insurance Agency on 1800 800 110 or visit the website here.

2. Do your research
The NDIS covers a wide range of disability support, services, and equipment.

It provides funding to help you do things that improve your quality of life, make you more independent, and achieve your goals. This could be to help you find a job, find a place to live, join in community activities and more.

To find out all of the supports funded by the NDIS, read more here.

3. Be up to date
Just because your NDIS funding lasts until you are 65, it doesn’t mean your plan has to stay the same for the whole time.

You might find that your goals have changed, or perhaps you become less reliant on a service or support.

With that in mind, it’s a good idea to review your plan at least once a year.

4. Your NDIS plan 
A core component of the process is your NDIS plan, which is developed at a planning meeting. This plan is about you and your goals, and it sets out the support you’ll receive in relation to your overall goals.

It's a good idea to think abut your goals before you meet with your NDIS planner, so you get the right funding for the services you want. 

You also don't want to be leaving 25% of funding on the table, as we mentioned at the start of this article....

There's a great checklist to help with your NDIS planning here.