MyCareFinders — My Care Finders, Australia's NDIS provider directory
NDIS basics

What is the NDIS, really?

The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is the Australian Government scheme that funds supports for people with a permanent and significant disability. It is run by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). If you are eligible, you get a plan with funding for supports that are "reasonable and necessary" for your disability. It is not means-tested, and you choose who provides your supports.

Last reviewed 2 October 2026 · Source: National Disability Insurance Scheme (ndis.gov.au), NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission

The key things to know

  • Who it is for

    People under 65 when they apply, who live in Australia as a citizen, permanent resident or protected special category visa holder, and have a permanent disability that substantially affects everyday life. Young children have a separate early childhood pathway.

  • What it pays for

    Supports linked to your disability that help with daily life, independence, community participation and work — for example support workers, therapy, equipment and some home changes. It does not pay for everyday living costs everyone has.

  • Who runs it

    The NDIA decides access and approves plans. A separate body, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, regulates providers and handles complaints.

  • Your choice

    Your funding is yours. You choose which providers you use and can change providers if things are not working.

How getting into the NDIS works

  1. 1

    Check if you might be eligible

    Use the eligibility information on ndis.gov.au, or call the NDIA on 1800 800 110.

  2. 2

    Apply (an "access request")

    You provide evidence about your disability and how it affects your life, usually from your doctor or allied health professionals.

  3. 3

    Planning

    If you are accepted, you talk with the NDIA or a local area coordinator about your goals and support needs.

  4. 4

    Your plan is approved

    The plan sets out your funding and how it is managed (by the NDIA, a plan manager or yourself).

  5. 5

    Find providers and start supports

    You choose providers and agree on what they will deliver. Your plan is reviewed over time.

Maya · AI guide

Still have a question about the NDIS?

Ask Maya, our AI guide, in your own words. She explains things in plain English and points you to official sources. Maya is AI and gives general information, not advice.

Ask Maya a question

Frequently asked questions

Does the NDIS cost me anything?

There is no fee to apply or to be a participant, and the NDIS is not means-tested. Your funding pays providers for the supports in your plan.

Is the NDIS the same as the Disability Support Pension?

No. The Disability Support Pension is an income payment from Services Australia. The NDIS funds disability supports and services. Some people get both.

What if I am over 65?

You generally need to be under 65 when you first apply. People over 65 are usually supported through the aged care system instead.

Can I change providers once I am on the NDIS?

Yes. Your funding stays with you. Check the notice period in your service agreement, then arrange your new provider.

Keep exploring

General information only, not legal, financial or NDIS planning advice. MyCareFinders is run by Local Knowledge Pty Ltd, which also operates MyMoney, a registered NDIS plan manager.

NDIS explained — all topics