NDIS Information
Understanding the National Disability Insurance Scheme can be confusing. Here's what you need to know about accessing support for mental health conditions.
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is Australia's way of providing support to people with disability. It provides funding for services and supports that help people live more independently and participate in their community.
If you're eligible for the NDIS, you'll receive an individualised plan with funding for supports tailored to your specific needs and goals. You have choice and control over how that funding is used.
The NDIS is administered by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), a government agency.
Mental Health & the NDIS
What is Psychosocial Disability?
Psychosocial disability refers to disability arising from mental health conditions. It's not the mental health condition itself, but the impact that condition has on your daily life.
The NDIS recognises that some people with mental health conditions experience significant functional impairment that affects their ability to participate in everyday activities. This is what psychosocial disability means.
Not everyone with a mental health condition will have a psychosocial disability. The key factor is the impact on your daily functioning, not the diagnosis itself.
NDIS is Different from Mental Health Treatment
The NDIS funds disability supports, not mental health treatment. Things like psychiatrist visits, counselling, and hospital care are covered by the health system (Medicare, PHN programs, etc.), not the NDIS. The two systems work together.
Am I Eligible for the NDIS?
To access the NDIS, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements.
Age
You must be under 65 years old when you first apply for the NDIS. If you're already a participant, you can continue after turning 65.
Residency
You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
Disability
You must have a permanent and significant disability that affects your ability to participate in everyday activities.
Need for Support
You need to demonstrate that you require support from people or equipment to do everyday things.
For Psychosocial Disability Specifically
Accessing the NDIS with a psychosocial disability can be more complex than for some other disabilities. You'll typically need:
- Evidence that your mental health condition is permanent (or likely to be permanent)
- Evidence of significant functional impairment in daily life
- Reports from treating professionals (psychiatrist, psychologist, GP) explaining the impact
- Evidence that you've tried other supports and still need help
How to Apply for the NDIS
Check Eligibility
Complete the NDIS eligibility checker online, or call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 to discuss your situation.
Make an Access Request
Contact the NDIA to make an access request. You can do this by calling 1800 800 110, using the online form, or visiting a local NDIS office.
Gather Evidence
Collect supporting evidence from your doctors and other health professionals. This should explain your diagnosis and how it affects your daily life.
Access Decision
The NDIA will review your application and evidence, then make a decision about whether you meet the eligibility criteria.
Planning Meeting
If you're found eligible, you'll have a planning meeting to discuss your goals and the supports you need. This becomes your NDIS plan.
Common Questions
The NDIS doesn't have a list of covered conditions. What matters is the impact your condition has on your daily life. Conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, and PTSD can all result in psychosocial disability, but the key factor is demonstrating significant and permanent functional impairment.
The NDIS is designed to be flexible. Your plan is reviewed regularly, and if your needs change (either increasing or decreasing), your plan can be adjusted. Recovery is the goal. The NDIS supports your journey toward greater independence.
The NDIA aims to make access decisions within 21 days of receiving a completed application with all required evidence. However, if more information is needed, this can extend the timeline. Planning meetings are then scheduled after access is granted.
Yes! Choice and control is a core principle of the NDIS. You can choose which registered providers you want to work with for your supports. You can also change providers if you're not happy.
If your application is not approved, you have the right to request a review of the decision. You can also provide additional evidence to support your case. Consider seeking help from an NDIS advocate or support coordinator if you're having difficulty with the process.
Helpful Links
Need Help Understanding the NDIS?
We are happy to answer your questions about the NDIS and how our services can support your mental health recovery journey.