NDIS Funding

What is the NDIS?

The NDIS or National Disability Insurance Scheme, is Australia’s first national scheme for people with disability. The NDIS is managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

It moves away from the previous system of providing block funding to agencies and community organisations, to give funding directly to people with a disability.

The NDIS aims to:
• Support the independence and social and economic participation of people with disability.
• Provide reasonable and necessary support, including early intervention support.
• Enable people with disability to exercise their choice and control in the pursuit of their goals and in the planning and delivery of their support.

The NDIS provides people with a disability, funding to access the support and services they need to live and enjoy their life.

Who is eligible for the NDIS?

To be eligible to apply to the NDIS, you must meet the eligibility criteria for age, residency and disability.

The NDIS website has an eligibility checklist (link opens in a new window) to assist people with whether they meet this criteria.

How can I access the NDIS?

There are a number of ways to apply for access to the NDIS. Anyone who thinks they are eligible for the NDIS can:

• Complete an Access Request Form and submit the document to the NDIA along with all supporting evidence. To get an Access Request Form you can contact the NDIA by phone on 1800 800 110, email at NAT@ndis.gov.au or online at https://www.ndis.gov.au/how-apply-ndis/what-access-request-form (link opens in a new window)
• You can also make a verbal access request by calling the NDIA on 1800 800 110.

More information on this process can be found on https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying-access-ndis (link opens in a new window)

Your local NDIA office or Local Area Coordinators (LAC) can also assist with information and support on how to access the NDIS. To find your local office visit https://www.ndis.gov.au/contact/locations (link opens in a new window)

Will NDIS funding cover a Guide Dog?

A Guide Dog qualifies as a mobility aid and it is possible to be funded for a Guide Dog through the NDIS.

As with all funded support in a participant’s plan, the NDIA has to consider whether the support meets all the reasonable and necessary criteria before funding.

More information about on the type of support funded go to https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis (link opens in a new window)

It is important to discuss with your LAC or NDIA planner, at every stage if you are interested in or have applied for a Guide Dog so they can assist you with the appropriate steps and advice.

What evidence do I need to provide?

The NDIA will need evidence in writing that you have completed an assessment from an NDIS participant assistance animal provider – such as Guide Dogs WA.

If you need help or advice on this process, please feel free to contact us on (08) 9311 8102 or info@guidedogswa.com.au for a confidential discussion.

Can I still get a Guide Dog if I can’t access the NDIS?

Regardless of NDIS funding eligibility, you may still be able to access support through Guide Dogs WA. Find out more information on the Guide Dog application and assessment process.

If you require further information about accessing services from Guide Dogs WA or funding support, please complete the form below and one of our team will contact you shortly.