What is the NDIS and NDIA?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides support for Australians with disability, their families, and carers, enabling them to access the services they need. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is responsible for implementing the NDIS and ensuring that people with disability receive the necessary support.
Are you eligible for the NDIS?
To be eligible for the NDIS, you must meet specific criteria. You may still qualify even if you are not currently receiving any services. To start the process, contact the NDIA at 1800 800 100 and express your interest in accessing the scheme.
Your first meeting with an NDIS Planner
This meeting is an opportunity to discuss the supports you need for your daily life, what you currently receive, and your future goals and aspirations.
Accessing NDIS supports
Once you have your NDIS plan, you can select the services and supports you wish to use. If your plan includes funding for support coordination, your Support Coordinator will help you manage these choices. If not, a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) provided by the NDIA will assist you. You can also seek guidance from us at any stage!
Plan reviews with NDIA
As your plan period concludes, it’s important to review what’s been effective, reflect on any changes in your goals, and adjust your supports and equipment as necessary.
NDIS FAQs
How do I contact the NDIA?
The NDIA can be contacted on 1800 800 110 between 8am and 8pm from Monday to Friday.
They will be able to help with any questions you may have, including registration details, arranging for a nominee to be recorded as an additional contact, and eligibility for NDIS funding.
Our top tip: The 1800 number has a very high call volume and delay times on phone can be very long (up to one hour). To avoid long delays, we find the best time to phone is between 8am and 9am, or after 5pm.
What is a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)?
An LAC acts as a ‘partner’ to the NDIA and handles planning meetings, generally for those with less complex needs. Although they may identify as NDIA Planners, their official title is LAC.
What is NDIS Support Coordination?
Support Coordination is a funded support intended for participants with complex needs, helping them understand and manage their NDIS budgets. Support Coordinators facilitate service engagement and help participants make informed choices to find suitable providers.
What is Plan Management?
Plan Management is a funded service to help participants manage their NDIS funds. It involves monitoring budgets, managing claims, disbursing funds to providers, and providing financial statements to participants. It also includes advice on optimally using NDIS funding to enhance participants' financial management skills.
What do all the acronyms mean?
For those new to disability support terminology, such as NDIA, NDIS, and LAC, this resource can be helpful: Understanding Disability Support Acronyms.
Get In Touch
Get in touch
Find out what services you can access in your area or check out your nearest CPL centre.