NDIS

How to apply for NDIS for your non-verbal/speech delayed child

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to support Australians living with a permanent and significant disability. It provides funding for essential supports and services that help people build skills, gain independence, and improve quality of life.

Applying for the NDIS can feel daunting, but understanding each step makes the process much simpler. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate your application with confidence.

How to apply for support:

See if you qualify

Before you apply, it’s important to check whether you meet the NDIS entry requirements.

You may be eligible if:

You’re under 65 years old at the time of applying.
You have a permanent and significant disability that affects your daily life — this may be physical, intellectual, sensory, or psychological.
You live in Australia and are either a citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.

If you’re unsure, you can always contact the NDIS or your local area coordinator (LAC) to confirm your eligibility.

Prepare your supporting information

Once you’ve checked your eligibility, gather documents that will help prove your identity, residency and disability.

You’ll generally need:

Proof of who you are – such as a birth certificate, passport, driver’s licence or Medicare card.
Proof of where you live – like a utility bill, rental agreement or any official letter with your address.
Evidence of your disability – including reports from doctors, specialists, or therapists that describe your condition and how it impacts your daily life.

Having these ready will make your application smoother and faster.

Send in your application

To officially apply, you’ll need to complete and submit an NDIS Access Request Form.
There are several ways to do this:

Call 1800 800 110 to request the form over the phone.
Visit an NDIA office to collect and hand in the form in person.
Email your form and documents to enquiries@ndis.gov.au.
Post your application to NDIS, PO Box 700, Canberra, ACT 2601.

Attend a planning meeting

If your access request is accepted, you’ll be invited to meet with an NDIS planner or LAC.
This meeting is your chance to talk about what kind of help you need and what goals you’d like to achieve.

You’ll discuss things like:

Your short-term and long-term goals
The supports you already have
The types of funding and assistance that would help you most

Your planner will use this information to design your personalised NDIS plan.

Review your NDIS plan

After your meeting, you’ll receive your official NDIS plan. It is a document outlining your goals, supports and approved funding.

Your plan may include:

Daily living support – help with personal care, cleaning or transport
Skill-building support – services that build confidence, independence or social skills
One-off support – funding for equipment, home modifications or assistive technology

Your planner or LAC will explain how to manage your plan and use your funding effectively.

Put your plan into action

Now it’s time to start using your plan and accessing the support available to you.

Here’s how to get started:

Find providers: Research and choose NDIS-registered providers who suit your goals and preferences.
Manage your funding: You can manage your funds yourself, work with a Plan Manager, or let the NDIA handle it for you.
Start your supports: Begin receiving the services and therapies you need to reach your goals and live more independently.

Supporting Families Together

We partner with healthcare professionals to make the NDIS process smoother for our clients. Below are some doctors we recommend for your NDIS application.