You are eligible for the NDIS if you are under 65 years old and live in Australia as a citizen or permanent resident. You must also have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to take part in everyday life. Children under 9 may also get help through early intervention pathways.
TL;DR: Check Your NDIS Eligibility Today
The NDIS is a way for people with a disability to get the support they need to live independently. To join, you must meet certain rules about your age, where you live, and your disability. We help people in Westmead, Parramatta, and Canberra understand these rules every day.
The government is currently making the system fairer with a new planning framework starting in 2026. This will make it easier to see what support you need. If you are unsure if you qualify, we can help you look at your options and gather the right evidence.
The Age Requirements For New Applicants
You must be between 7 and 65 years old to apply for the NDIS for the first time. If you are already in the scheme when you turn 65, you can choose to stay. However, you cannot start a new application once you have reached your 65th birthday.
For children under 9 years old, the rules are slightly different. These children can access help through the early childhood approach. This ensures that young children in Western Sydney get help as soon as possible to improve their future.
Residence Rules For NDIS Participants
To get NDIS funding, you must live in Australia. You must also be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa. This ensures the funding goes to people who call Australia their permanent home.
Our team works across many suburbs like Granville and Harris Park to help residents understand these rules. If you move house within Australia, your funding usually stays with you. This gives you the freedom to live where you choose while keeping your support coordination services active.
Meeting The Disability Requirements
Your disability must be caused by an impairment that is likely to be permanent. This means the disability will be with you for the rest of your life. It could be a physical, intellectual, cognitive, or sensory impairment. It also includes psychosocial disabilities related to mental health.
The disability must substantially reduce your ability to do daily tasks. This includes things like moving around, communicating with others, or looking after yourself. The NDIS looks at how your disability affects your health and wellbeing before they approve your application.
How Early Intervention Can Help
If your disability is not permanent, you might still qualify through early intervention. This is for people who will benefit from getting help early to stop their condition from getting worse. It is often used for young children with developmental delays.
Early intervention is about building your skills now so you need less help in the future. In Canberra and Sydney, we see many families use this to help their children reach milestones. It can also help your family learn the best ways to support you at home.
The Importance Of Functional Capacity
Functional capacity is a term the NDIS uses to describe what you can and cannot do. They want to see that your disability affects your social or work life. They look at how much help you need to take part in your local community in Parramatta.
We often suggest getting an occupational therapy report to show your functional capacity. These experts can write a detailed letter explaining your daily struggles. This evidence is very important for the NDIS to make a fair decision about your eligibility.
New Assessment Rules Starting In 2026
From mid-2026, the NDIS will use a new way to assess your support needs. This is called the Support Needs Assessment. Instead of just looking at your medical diagnosis, they will focus more on what help you need for daily life.
This change aims to make the system simpler and more consistent for everyone. Trained assessors will meet with you to talk about your goals and your routine. This is a big step towards making the NDIS a fairer system for all Australians with a disability.
How To Start Your NDIS Application
Starting your application involves filling out an Access Request Form. You will need to provide proof of your age, your residence, and your disability. It is helpful to have your doctor or a specialist help you with the medical parts of the form.
You can visit an NDIS office in Westmead or Parramatta to get these forms. You can also work with a local partner to guide you through the process. We are here to support you in gathering your evidence so your application has the best chance of success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get NDIS if I have a job?
Yes, having a job does not stop you from getting NDIS support. In fact, the NDIS often provides funding to help you keep your job or find a new one that suits your abilities.
What if my NDIS application is rejected?
If the NDIS says no, you can ask them to review the decision. You have three months to ask for a "request for review." You can also provide more evidence if you think they missed something important.
Does the NDIS cover temporary injuries?
No, the NDIS is only for permanent disabilities. If you have a temporary injury like a broken leg, you should use the standard health system or Medicare for your recovery.
How much does it cost to apply for the NDIS?
It does not cost any money to submit an NDIS application. However, you might have to pay your doctor or a specialist to write the reports that you need for evidence.
Can I apply for the NDIS on behalf of my child?
Yes, parents or legal guardians can apply for children. For children under 9, you should talk to an early childhood partner who can help you with the specific early intervention steps.
