ndis AUTISM toolkit
Applying for the NDIS
Our top tips and resources to help guide you on how to apply for NDIS funding with autism
Who is eligible to apply?
There are 4 main criteria that must meet in order to be eligible to apply for the NDIS:
A diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Levels 2 & 3 falls under NDIS List A disability criteria, where a diagnosis of Level 1 ASD falls under NDIS List B disability criteria. The application process will differ depending on your child’s diagnosis.
To understand more about the NDIS eligibility criteria, and what options are available if you do not meet these CLICK HERE
Who can help me apply?
The journey of applying for the NDIS can be a difficult and tumultuous time, especially for parents, carers and guardians who are solely focused on getting supports their child needs.
The following organisations and advocacy groups offer support for those applying to the NDIS with autism, however this list is not exhaustive and the waitlists can at times be longer so please reach out to each organisation for further assistance
Autism Specific Support
We’ve gathered a list of resources for some of the most common organisations that specifically assist people with their application to the NDIS. The common disabilities include:
Autism Spectrum Australia
Autism Spectrum Australia (better known as Aspect) is a not-for-profit organisation that aims to provide people on the autism spectrum with the opportunity to realise their strengths. Aspect also provides support to those one the autism spectrum, including support for those looking to apply for the NDIS.
You can contact Aspect directly for help applying for or gathering information for your application to the NDIS.
Autism Awareness
Autism Awareness is an organisation that simply aims to empower families with a loved one on the autism spectrum. They supply an in-depth guide to applying for the NDIS, including resources on access and eligibility, planning and support, and managing your NDIS plan. They are available for direct contact for those needing more support.
Amaze
Amaze is an advocacy organisation that aims to help shape a better future for those on the autism spectrum. They actively support prospective participants applying for the NDIS and are available via phone on 1300 308 699, email at info@amaze.org.au or webchat on their site.
Other supports available
There are a number of other great organisations out there who provide additional resources along your NDIS journey (just like Plan Hero). For more information, have a look at our recommended sites:
Raising Children Network
AEIOU
MyCareSpace
How do I apply for my child under 9?
Children under 9 access the NDIS via the Early Childhood Pathway
What is the Early Childhood Pathway/Approach?
The early childhood approach helps children younger than 6 with developmental delay or children younger than 9 with disability and their families to access local community and determine whether NDIS supports when needed.
To access the Early Childhood Pathway would will need to connect with your local early childhood provider
How do I connect with my local early childhood provider?
You can find your local early childhood provider via the NDIS website – CLICK HERE to search using your postcode and find the closest early childhood partner
What supports can my local early childhood provider connect us with?
Your early childhood partner will talk with you about what supports you and your child/partner can receive, this might include connections with:
– Mainstream and community services
– Practical information relevant to your child’s development
– Other families
– Early supports and therapies
– Applying to the NDIS
How do I apply to the NDIS if I am accessing the Early childhood pathway?
If you decide to apply to the NDIS on your child’s behalf, chat to your early childhood partner, as they can assist you in putting together the information and evidence to help work out if your child is eligible.
To find out more about the Early Childhood Pathway CLICK HERE
How do I apply for my child or adults over 9?
The process of applying to the NDIS will depend on your ASD diagnosis. You can connect with a Local Area Coordinator or NDIS partner to figure out the next steps
What is a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIS Partner?
Your LAC can assist you in finding appropriate community & local supports, and let you know what information you will need to complete your NDIS application. If your application is accepted they will also assist you with creating and implementing your NDIS plan.
How do I connect with my Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIS Partner?
You can find your local area coordinator or NDIS partner via the NDIS website – CLICK HERE to search using your postcode
How do I apply with a Level 1 ASD diagnosis?
You will require additional supporting evidence and documentation to provide evidence that an applicant’s Autism significantly impairs their functional capacity for everyday activities and their social or economic participation.
CLICK HERE for our step by step guide on how to apply with Autism Level 1 diagnosis.
How do I apply if with a Level 2 or 3 ASD diagnosis?
As this diagnosis meets the List A diagnosis criteria for the NDIS, you may not require additional evidence as long as you have complete the NDIS Application form as required.
CLICK HERE for the 3 steps to follow to apply to the NDIS
Next Steps
Planning Meeting Preparation
- What is an NDIS Planning Meeting?
- Top 10 tips to prepare for your planning meeting
- What evidence do I need?
- Setting Goals for your plan
- Writing a Carer’s Statement
- What is NDIS plan management?
Using your funds
- How do I read my plan?
- Understanding my NDIS Plan
- I have my plan, what next?
- Finding Supports
- Setting up Service Agreements
HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?