Declined for NDIS support? Exploring other disability services…

Receiving a decision that you’re not eligible for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can leave you feeling disappointed and wondering what to do next.  

If this has happened to you or your loved one, it’s important to know that a declined NDIS application does not necessarily mean the end of the road for receiving formal disability services to assist your family. 

Understand the decision 

If the NDIS decides you are not eligible, they will send you a written explanation outlining the reasons. This decision is made by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), which administers the scheme. 

Eligibility decisions are generally based on: 

• age requirements (under 65 at time of application); 

• residency requirements; 

• whether the disability is permanent; 

• whether it substantially reduces functional capacity; and 

• whether NDIS support is likely to be required for life. 

Read more about eligibility requirements on the NDIS website (external link). 

If you’re still unsure about the outcome, the NDIA encourages you to contact them (external link) and have a conversation about the decision and the reasons behind it. 

Can you appeal an NDIS decision? 

Th good news is, yes! If you don’t agree with the decision, you can request an internal review. 

Internal review

An internal review means a different NDIA staff member, who wasn’t involved in the original decision, will have a look and decide if the decision was right.  

The NDIA encourages you to request an internal review within three months of receiving your decision letter.¹ 

To help the NDIA complete their review, you can provide: 

• information about what decision or disability services you were expecting; 

• information about why you think a different decision should be made; 

• any information you’ve already provided that you’d like the NDIA to reconsider; and 

• any new evidence, such as medical or therapy reports. 

External review 

If you’re still unhappy with the outcome of the internal review, you can try applying for an external review through the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). 

Full details about requesting an ART review are available on the NDIS website (external link). 

Other support pathways to consider 

If you’re not eligible for the NDIS – or while waiting for a review – there may be other disability service supports that you can access in your community. 

Depending on your age and circumstances, options may include: 

1. Self-funded care with Avivo 

As an independent, not-for-profit community service provider, Avivo can support you with disability services support under self-funded care plans.  

If you can afford to pay privately for disability services support, or want to begin services immediately instead of waiting, self-funded care gives you full flexibility and control. You choose the services you want and pay as you go. 
 

Read more about self-funded support with Avivo including how to get started. 

2. Local Area Coordinators (LAC) 

A local area coordinator (LAC) is an organisation contracted by the NDIA to help with access, planning and community connection. 

You can ask your local area coordinator about the supports available in your community, even if you’re not eligible for an NDIS plan.  

Local area coordinators have strong connections in community and can help you connect with supports in your local area including community groups, recreational activities such as sporting clubs, performing arts groups and other social networks.² 

Read more about local area coordinators on the NDIS website (external link). 

3. Aged care funding  

If your loved one meets the age requirements and is finding it harder to do the things they used to – such as managing household tasks, personal care, or recovering after a health setback – aged care services through the My Aged Care portal might be the right path for you. 

My Aged Care is the Australian Government’s gateway to aged care services for people 65 and over (or 50+ for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people). 

Read more about My Aged Care supports and eligibility on the NDIS website (external link).

4. State or Territory disability services 

Some state-based programs continue to offer disability supports outside of the NDIS. 

5. Community and mainstream services 

You may be able to access support through: 

• public health services; 

• community mental health programs; 

• allied health services; or 

• local community organisations. 

Don’t give up

While a declined application can feel disheartening, it doesn’t mean disability services are unavailable to you. You may have grounds to request a review – particularly if additional evidence can clarify the functional impact of your loved one’s disability. 

And even if the NDIS is not the right pathway, there are other services designed to help people maintain independence, wellbeing and connection. 

Understanding your options is the first step forward. 

You don’t have to navigate this alone  

Our team is here to listen and help you navigate the different options so you can make the best decisions for your family.  

If you’d like clarity on the next steps or want someone to talk through your situation with, get in touch with our team today.