Your Guide to the NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme can feel overwhelming at first. We're here to help you understand how it works, whether you're eligible, and how to make the most of your funding.
What Is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government initiative that provides funding and support to people living with a permanent and significant disability. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, the NDIS gives you an individualised plan and budget — so you can choose the supports that are right for you and your goals.
- Funded by the Australian Government
- Supports people aged under 65 at time of access
- Provides individualised funding plans
- You choose your own providers and supports
- Plans are reviewed regularly as your needs change
Am I Eligible?
To access the NDIS, you generally need to meet the following criteria:
Age
You must be under 65 years of age when you first apply for the NDIS.
Residency
You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
Disability
You must have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to take part in everyday activities.
Early Intervention
You may also be eligible if early support would reduce your future needs or help a child with developmental delay.
How Does the NDIS Work?
Getting started with the NDIS involves a few key steps. Here's what to expect:
Check Your Eligibility
Contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or visit ndis.gov.au to check if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Submit an Access Request
Complete an Access Request Form with supporting evidence from your treating health professionals about your disability.
Planning Meeting
Once approved, you'll have a planning meeting with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to discuss your goals and support needs.
Receive Your Plan
Your NDIS plan is created with a funding budget across support categories tailored to your goals and circumstances.
Choose Your Providers
With your plan in place, you choose the registered providers — like Pryde Platinum — to deliver your supports.
Plan Review
Your plan is reviewed regularly (usually annually) to ensure it continues to meet your needs as your life changes.
Understanding Your NDIS Funding
NDIS plans are divided into three support budget categories:
Core Supports
Funding for everyday activities and supports — including daily living assistance, community access, consumables, and transport. This is the most flexible budget category.
- Daily personal care
- Community participation
- Transport assistance
- Consumables and equipment
Capacity Building
Funding to help you build skills and independence over time — including support coordination, therapy, employment support, and improved daily living skills.
- Support coordination
- Therapy services
- Employment support
- Life skills development
Capital Supports
Funding for higher-cost assistive technology, home modifications, and Supported Independent Living (SIL) arrangements.
- Assistive technology
- Home modifications
- Supported Independent Living
- Specialist disability accommodation
How Pryde Platinum Can Help
Navigating the NDIS doesn't have to be stressful. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Plan Management
We handle the financial administration of your NDIS plan — processing invoices, tracking budgets, and ensuring you get maximum value from your funding.
Support Coordination
We help you understand your plan, connect with the right providers, and coordinate your supports so everything works together seamlessly.
Service Delivery
As a registered NDIS provider, we deliver a wide range of funded supports — from daily living and community access to SIL and therapy coordination.
Plan Reviews
We advocate for you at plan reviews, helping you articulate your goals and ensure your plan reflects your current and future support needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. You have the right to choose and change your providers at any time. If you're unhappy with your current provider or want to switch to Pryde Platinum, simply give notice as outlined in your service agreement and contact us to get started.
You can request an internal review of your plan if you believe it doesn't meet your needs. You can also request a review at any time if your circumstances change significantly. Our team can help you prepare for a review.
Plan management means a registered plan manager (like Pryde Platinum) handles the financial side of your NDIS plan — paying providers, tracking your budget, and sending you monthly statements. It gives you more choice and less paperwork.
In most cases, the NDIS does not fund family members or close relatives to provide supports. However, there are some exceptions in certain circumstances. Speak with your NDIS planner or contact us for guidance.
The process can take several weeks to a few months depending on your circumstances and the complexity of your application. Having strong supporting evidence from your health professionals can help speed up the process.
Ready to Start Your NDIS Journey?
Whether you're applying for the first time or looking for a better provider, Pryde Platinum is here to help. Get in touch with our friendly team today.