How to Apply for the NDIS
Applying can feel like a lot to take in, but the process officially breaks down into 5 clear steps. Here's exactly what each one involves, straight from the official guidelines.
On this page
The 5-Step Application Process
Connect With a Partner
Find out if there's a partner near you using the official office finder, or call 1800 800 110 if you're not sure who to contact. If there's no partner in your local area, you'll be connected with someone directly instead.
A meeting can happen in person, over the phone, or virtually. During it, expect to talk through your life, your disability, your needs, the eligibility requirements, the application process itself, and the evidence you'll need to provide.
Tip: a support person, a family member, friend, support coordinator, or recovery coach, can attend any meeting with you.
Gather Your Evidence
Information and evidence from a treating health professional needs to be included in the application. An appointment specifically to discuss what evidence is needed is often a sensible next move.
Complete Your Application
There are two paths here:
- With a partner: they can help complete the application directly, carrying across information already discussed in the first meeting.
- By yourself: the Access Request Form can be filled out independently.
Submit Your Application
A partner can submit the completed application directly. If submitting independently, there are 3 ways to do it:
- Through the online service hub
- By mail to NDIA, GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601
- In person, at a local office
Wait for the Decision
A response is provided within 21 days once the application and all supporting evidence has been submitted. Whether the disability requirements, the early intervention requirements, or both have been met will be confirmed, along with an impairment notice.
If the outcome isn't eligible: a letter explaining the reasoning is sent, and a review of that decision can be requested if it doesn't seem right. There's no limit on how many times an application can be made, reapplying is always an option if circumstances change and stronger evidence becomes available.
Continue Learning
This guide is part of our full "Understanding the NDIS" series:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a decision?
A response is provided within 21 days once the application and all supporting evidence has been submitted.
Can I apply without a partner's help?
Yes. An Access Request Form can be completed and submitted independently, without going through a partner.
What evidence do I need?
Information and evidence from a treating health professional forms a core part of the application, this is typically gathered through an appointment specifically to discuss what's needed.
Can I bring someone with me to meetings?
Yes. A support person, family member, friend, support coordinator, or recovery coach can attend any meeting.
How do I submit my application?
Three options exist: through the online service hub, by mail to NDIA, GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601, or in person at a local office. A partner, if involved, can also submit it directly.
What happens if I'm found not eligible?
A letter explaining the reasoning is sent, a review of the decision can be requested, and there's no limit on how many times an application can be made again in future.
Can I apply again if I was rejected before?
Yes, there's no limit on the number of applications that can be made. Reapplying is a reasonable option if circumstances change and stronger evidence becomes available.