What is NDIS?
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a national program administered by the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) that provides funding for reasonable and necessary supports to Australians with significant and permanent disability. NDIS participants receive an individualised plan outlining their goals and funding allocations across different support categories.
All NDIS services at Steps2Life are delivered in accordance with NDIS Practice Standards, the NDIS Code of Conduct, and current NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.
Who it Supports
The NDIS supports children, adolescents, and adults living with significant and permanent disability, including neurodevelopmental conditions (such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and intellectual disability), neurological and physical conditions (such as cerebral palsy and acquired brain injury), sensory conditions, and psychosocial disabilities. Steps2Life works with participants across all these areas, delivering allied health therapy aligned with individual plans and approved funding categories.
Who is Eligible?
- Eligibility criteria
To be eligible for the NDIS, an individual must have a permanent and significant disability that substantially affects their ability to take part in everyday activities, or be a child with developmental delay requiring early intervention support. Eligibility is assessed by the NDIA based on supporting evidence from treating professionals, including allied health and medical reports.
- Age requirements
NDIS access requests are generally made for individuals under 65 years of age. Children with developmental concerns may access the NDIS Early Childhood Approach without a formal diagnosis, while older participants already receiving NDIS supports before turning 65 may continue to do so.
- Residency requirements
Applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa, and must be living in Australia at the time of their access request.
NDIS Funding Types
- Self-Managed
Self-managed participants handle their own invoicing and payments, giving them the flexibility to access both registered and unregistered providers, including Steps2Life.
- Plan-Managed
A plan manager handles invoicing and payments on the participant’s behalf, while still allowing access to registered and unregistered providers. This option reduces administrative burden while retaining flexibility of provider choice.
- NDIA-Managed
Also known as Agency-managed, funding is paid directly by the NDIA to providers. Participants using this management type can only access registered NDIS providers. Steps2Life is a registered NDIS provider, so we can support participants under any management type.
How Steps2life Can Help
- Help you understand your plan, identify which supports apply to your funding categories, and develop a therapy plan aligned with your goals
- Provide functional capacity assessments and other documentation to support plan reviews and access requests
- Services are available in-clinic, through mobile visits to home and school, and via telehealth
Frequently Asked Questions
To access NDIS funding, individuals must meet eligibility criteria set by the National Disability Insurance Agency. This generally involves completing an access request and providing supporting documentation.
You can apply by contacting the NDIA and submitting an Access Request Form along with relevant medical or allied health evidence. Once eligibility is confirmed, a planning meeting is arranged to discuss goals and support needs.
Participants may change providers depending on their funding management type and service agreements. It is important to review notice periods and agreement terms before making changes.
A plan review involves discussing current supports, progress toward goals, and any changes in circumstances. Updated assessments or reports may be required to inform funding decisions.
Participants should monitor their budget and discuss any concerns with their support coordinator or plan manager. Service adjustments may be required to remain within approved funding limits.
Book an appointment
If you are considering allied health services, our team can help guide you through the booking process. We are happy to discuss availability, service options, and access pathways before getting started.
