Your NDIS Application

Starting your application

“When you’re applying and collecting all the documents, make sure you put everything. If you think it’s too much, don’t! The more you put, the easier it is for them to assess you. I wrote a four page personal account about how disability affects me daily, because the NDIS people aren’t necessarily medical professionals… this will help them understand” – Anthony (they/them), lives with Tourette’s

What you need to know

What you need to know:

  • An application to receive NDIS supports is known as an access request.
  • Before you can receive support from the NDIS, you need to lodge a formal application and be approved by the NDIA.
  • This process can seem lengthy and complicated, but there are ways to get through it.
  • Much of the language used in the next section reflects the language used on the NDIS application form. You might find some of this language confronting. If this raises any issues for you, you can

There are several ways to make an Access Request:

  • You can make an Access Request by calling 1800 800 110

Alternatively, you can download an Access Request Form here and return the completed form  by email to NAT@ndis.gov.au, or by post to GPO Box 700, Canberra, ACT 2601

Submitting your application and waiting for a response

“Once my application to the NDIS was submitted, I had a lot of stress and anxiety around what was happening. Things just seemed to move very slowly. In terms of coping with that stress, I think it’s really important to have a good support network. I have close friends I talked to a lot as I was going through the process and vented anxieties and frustrations around that” – Finn, he/him, lives with Cerebral Palsy  

Barriers and Challenges

  • Sometimes, when you apply for NDIS access or contact the NDIS, you might have to wait a long time for a response.
  • If you are waiting a long time to hear back from the NDIS, it isn’t personal and doesn’t mean your request will be rejected.
  • The Federal Government will introduce a Participant Service Guarantee, that is expected to reduce waiting times. Changes will occur soon.
  • You can always contact the NDIS again and ask if there is any update on your request.
  • If you are struggling or need someone to talk to, please see our Self Care Section and Useful Links.