What is the NDIS?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supports people with disability by making sure they get the right supports and services.

If you don’t know a lot about the NDIS check out our video. It features young people with disability talking about the NDIS.

Can you join the NDIS?

There is a law that says who can join the NDIS and how to join. Here’s what you need to know:

Where you live matters

You can only join the NDIS when it comes to your area. Some areas already have the NDIS while others will get the NDIS soon.

You can visit the NDIS website to check when the NDIS is coming to your area.

There are different ways to join the NDIS

Some people will have to apply to join the NDIS but other people won’t. This is because some people get certain kinds of disability supports already.

This means it can be confusing to work out whether or not you need to apply to join the NDIS.

You can call the NDIS to find out if you need to apply. If you are under 18 your parents will need to call.

To join the NDIS the law says you must:

  • Be under 65
  • Be an Australian citizen OR permanent resident OR hold a Protected Special Category visa
  • Have a permanent disability that affects your ability to do some things like:

    - Get around
    - Communicate
    - Look after yourself
    - Go to school OR 
    - Work

If you have any questions about joining the NDIS you can contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or click here. 

Remember, you can also contact YDAS if you need any help with the process.

* This information is for young people aged 12 – 25.

Download our infographic below.

how to join the ndis