Applying for NDIS Funding With an Autism (ASD) Level 1 Diagnosis
We have put together steps to help you apply for NDIS funding with an Autism (ASD) Level 1 diagnosis, including tips on where to get more information and links to help you navigate the NDIS and autism supports.
Applying for the NDIS with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Level 1 diagnosis will usually require additional reports and supporting documentation to show the impact of your child’s disability on daily life and participation. This is because ASD Level 1 is listed under NDIS Conditions – List B, which generally requires further assessment of functional capacity.
The approval of an NDIS Access Request for ASD Level 1 often depends on demonstrating that the applicant’s autism significantly impacts functional capacity for everyday activities and/or their social or economic participation.
The steps below will also depend on the participant’s age:
- Children 9 years and under will generally go through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) pathway.
- Children and adults over 9 years are generally supported via the LAC/NDIA pathway (steps are listed below).
Children Under 9
There is a different access pathway for children under the age of 9. This involves engaging with an ECEI (Early Childhood Early Intervention) partner, who can assist you to access supports and understand the early childhood approach.
This is known as the ECEI pathway. You can read more about the NDIS early childhood approach here.
You can also connect with your local early childhood partner and get more information here.
For early intervention requirements, the NDIS will need evidence from your GP or treating specialist confirming your child’s permanent impairment and that they require early intervention. Generally, the evidence should be from the last 12 months.
Note: The early childhood age range changed from 7 to 9 years of age in July 2023. Read more here.
Children Over 9 and Adults
When applying to the NDIS (for yourself or on behalf of your child), there are a few key steps to follow. The team at Plan Hero can help walk you through the process.
- 1. Provide evidence of disability
- 2. Complete the NDIS Access Request Form
- 3. Complete the Supporting Evidence Form
- 4. Submit your information to the NDIS
1. Provide Evidence of Disability
The type of evidence required depends on the disability and whether further documentation is needed for the access request.
- NDIA: Types of disability evidence
- Plan Hero: What evidence is needed?
- You can also start an access request over the phone by calling 1800 800 110. The NDIS can send forms for you to complete and return.
2. Complete the NDIS Access Request Form
Click here to download the NDIS Access Request Form.
- Section 1 is completed by the applicant (or parent/guardian/nominee).
- Section 2 is completed by a treating health professional.
- You can also request the form by calling 1800 800 110.
3. Complete the Supporting Evidence Form
If your condition falls under List B, C or D, you may be required to provide additional evidence to support your application. This is the main step that differs for ASD Level 1, as you will generally need evidence showing how the disability impacts functional capacity.
Click here to download the Supporting Evidence Form.
This form is typically completed by a relevant professional (for example, allied health practitioners). You can also include additional evidence to strengthen your application, such as:
- Diagnosis and treatment information from relevant therapy supports
- Functional assessments related to disability (evidence of how the permanent impairment impacts everyday activities)
- Activities the person cannot complete in key domains (and the type/frequency of assistance required)
- Impact of the disability on daily life, for example:
- case notes from service providers
- a carer statement / impact statement
- a self-report or journal
4. Submit Your Information to the NDIS
Once the Access Request Form is completed, signed and dated, send the form and supporting documents via one of the following options:
- Email: NAT@ndis.gov.au
- Mail: GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601 (email is best if possible)
- Visit a local NDIS office: find your local office here
Important: Keep a copy of everything you send.
What Happens Next?
Your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or an NDIA planner will usually contact you within around 21 days (by phone and/or in writing) to let you know the outcome.
If your application is approved, the next step is typically an NDIS planning meeting. The NDIS may also request additional evidence before finalising a plan. If your application is not approved, you should receive a reason for the decision.
If you do not agree with the outcome, you can request further information or appeal the decision. Read more here.
In the meantime, it can help to start keeping records that show the impact of support needs and the benefits of supports. This may be useful later during planning.
- Keep a journal noting impacts at home, school and in social settings (including difficult days, incidents, and how they are managed).
- Note the benefits of any current supports.
- Keep copies of therapist notes and reports.
Sources
NDIA – Providing evidence of your disability
NDIA – Do you need early intervention?
NDIA – How do you apply for the NDIS?
NDIA – What is an access request form?
NDIA – Early Childhood Approach
