Getting Started
NDIS Eligibility Guide
Find out who qualifies for the NDIS and how to take your first steps. We explain the rules in plain English — no jargon, no confusion.
Last updated: 29 April 2026
NDIS at a Glance
610,000+
Australians supported by the NDIS
Under 65
Age requirement to access the scheme
21 days
Typical wait for access decision
Participant figure: NDIS.gov.au/about-us · Eligibility rules: NDIS.gov.au/am-i-eligible
Who Qualifies for NDIS Support?
Understanding NDIS eligibility can seem tricky, but the main rules are quite simple. The National Disability Insurance Scheme — managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) — is designed for Australians under 65 who have a permanent and significant disability that affects their everyday life. Here are the three key things you need to know.
The Three Main NDIS Eligibility Rules
1. Age Requirement
You must be aged between 7 and 65 when you first apply for the NDIS. If you are under 7, you may be supported through an early childhood partner instead. If you are over 65, different aged care supports may apply.
2. Residency Requirement
You must live in Australia and be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa. You also need to live in an area where the NDIS is available — which now covers all of Victoria, including Melbourne and regional areas.
3. Disability Requirement
You must have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to do everyday activities. This could be a physical, intellectual, sensory, cognitive, or psychosocial disability. The NDIS also supports people who need early intervention to reduce future support needs.
What Conditions Does the NDIS Cover?
The NDIS doesn't have a fixed list of conditions. Instead, it looks at how your disability affects your daily life. Common conditions supported include:
- Intellectual disability and developmental delay
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Cerebral palsy and physical disabilities
- Spinal cord injury and acquired brain injury
- Multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions
- Psychosocial disability (mental health conditions)
- Vision and hearing impairments
How to Apply for the NDIS
Applying for the NDIS is called making an Access Request. Here's the basic process:
- Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or visit ndis.gov.au to start your application.
- Complete the Access Request Form with your personal details.
- Gather supporting evidence from your doctors and specialists.
- Submit your application and wait for a decision (usually within 21 days).
- If approved, you'll be contacted to arrange your first planning meeting.
For the latest access request forms and evidence guidelines, visit the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
Need Help with Your NDIS Application?
Gathering the right evidence and filling out forms can feel overwhelming. Our team in Melbourne can help you understand what you need and guide you through the process. We've helped many families navigate NDIS eligibility — and we'd love to help you too.