NDIS 101: Understanding the Basics of Your Plan & Funding 

What is the NDIS? 

The NDIS is Australia’s national program designed to provide people with permanent and significant disabilities the support they need to live independently and achieve their goals. 

The NDIS offers individualised funding for a range of disability services that enhance quality of life, personal development, and participation in the community. Instead of a one-size-fits-all model, the NDIS is built around your unique needs, goals, and aspirations. 

Did you know? You have choice and control over how your NDIS funding is used, allowing you to decide who delivers your services and how you reach your goals. 

Who is Eligible for the NDIS? 

You may be eligible for NDIS funding if you: 

• Are aged between 9 and 65 years. 

• Are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa. 

• Have a permanent and significant disability that impacts your ability to participate in everyday activities. 

If you’re unsure whether you qualify, it’s worth reaching out to the NDIS, or a registered provider like Avivo for guidance. 

What Your NDIS Plan Includes 

Your NDIS plan is tailored to your individual needs and goals. It includes three main parts: 

Your Goals 

These are the things you want to achieve with your plan whether that’s learning new skills, improving your independence, increasing social participation, or working towards employment. 

Support Categories 

Your funding (determined during the NDIS application process) is divided into different categories to help ensure you receive the right supports. We’ll dive into these more below. 

Budget Management

You can choose how your plan is managed: 

• Self-managed – You manage your own funds. 

• Plan-managed – A Plan Manager helps you manage payments and invoices. 

• Agency-managed – The NDIS handles payments directly with providers. 

Each method has its pros and cons, and you can even combine them to suit different parts of your plan. 

Understanding these basics ensures you can make confident decisions about your care. 

Understanding Your NDIS Funding Categories 

NDIS funding is split into three key categories: 

1. Core Supports 

This category covers everyday activities that help you live more independently and participate in the community. Examples include: 

• Assistance with personal care (e.g., showering, dressing) 

• Household tasks (e.g., cleaning, shopping) 

• Transport to appointments or social activities 

• Community and social participation programs 

2. Capacity Building Supports 

Capacity Building funding helps you build skills and independence so you can reach your goals. Supports might include: 

• Therapy services like occupational therapy, physiotherapy, or psychology 

• Life skills programs (e.g., budgeting, cooking) 

• Employment supports to help you find and keep a job 

• Support coordination to help you connect with the right services 

3. Capital Supports 

This covers larger, one-off purchases or investments in assistive technology and modifications. Examples include: 

• Wheelchairs or mobility equipment 

• Home modifications like installing rails or ramps 

• Vehicle modifications 

Important: Everyday living expenses like rent, groceries, and utility bills are not covered by the NDIS unless they are directly related to your disability support needs. 

How to Access the NDIS: Step-by-Step 

If you think you might be eligible, here’s how you can get started: 

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility 

Use the NDIS Access Checklist online or chat to a registered NDIS provider like Avivo for guidance. 

Step 2: Make an Access Request 

Contact the NDIS by phone (1800 800 110) or submit an Access Request Form along with supporting documents from your healthcare professionals. 

Step 3: Provide Evidence 

Submit evidence that shows how your disability impacts your daily life. 

Step 4: Planning Meeting 

If your application is approved, you’ll meet with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to create your individualised plan. 

Step 5: Start Using Your Supports 

Once you receive your plan, you can choose your providers and start accessing services to achieve your goals. 

Choosing the Right NDIS Provider 

Choosing a provider is one of the most important parts of your NDIS journey. The right provider will respect your choices, support your goals, and adapt with you as your needs change. 

When selecting a provider, consider: 

• Are they a registered NDIS provider? 

• Do they offer flexible, person-centred support? 

• Are they local and connected to your community? 

• Can they adapt to your needs over time? 

At Avivo, we’re proud to offer disability services that are flexible, community-focused, and built around your life, not the other way around. 

How Avivo Can Help with Your NDIS Journey 

At Avivo, we know that navigating the NDIS can sometimes feel like a big task, but you don’t have to do it alone. 

We’re here to make the NDIS simple, and tailored to you. Our services include: 

• Support Coordination to help you navigate your plan 

• Daily living supports 

• Community participation programs 

• Therapy and allied health connections 

Most importantly, we listen. Your journey is yours and we’re here to walk alongside you. 

Understanding the basics of the NDIS gives you the power to shape the life you want. Whether you’re looking for daily support, new opportunities, or simply the freedom to live your life on your own terms, the NDIS is here to help, and so are we. 

Read more about our NDIS services here.