What is the NDIS & How Does It Work?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is one of the most significant social reforms in Australian history, designed to empower people with disability by giving them choice and control over the services and supports they need. But if you’re new to the NDIS, all the jargon and processes can feel overwhelming.
This blog will break it down clearly — what the NDIS is, who it's for, and how it actually works, so you can feel confident navigating it for yourself or someone you care about.
Understanding the NDIS: What It Actually Is
The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) is a government-funded program that provides financial support to Australians living with a permanent and significant disability. Its purpose is to help participants lead more independent lives by funding access to supports and services that improve their day-to-day wellbeing and long-term outcomes.
It’s Not Welfare — It’s Empowerment
Unlike traditional welfare programs, the NDIS is designed to be participant-led. That means eligible people get to choose their own providers, set their own goals, and tailor their supports based on what’s important to them.
Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, NDIS plans are highly individualised, giving people more control over how, when, and where their supports are delivered.
Who Can Access the NDIS?
To access the NDIS, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Be under the age of 65 when you apply
Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
Have a permanent and significant disability that impacts your ability to do everyday things
If you're unsure whether you or a loved one is eligible, the NDIS Access Checklist on the official NDIS website is a great place to start.
How the NDIS Works: A Step-by-Step Breakdown
Understanding how the NDIS actually works can be the difference between frustration and freedom. Here's what the process typically looks like:
Step 1: Accessing the Scheme
Once eligibility is confirmed, you’ll become an NDIS participant. From here, your journey begins.
Step 2: Planning Meeting
You’ll have a planning meeting with an NDIS Local Area Coordinator (LAC), Early Childhood Partner, or NDIS Planner. In this meeting, you’ll discuss:
Your current supports
Your goals
What supports or services you need to live more independently
This information helps the planner build your NDIS Plan.
Step 3: Receiving Your NDIS Plan
Your personalised NDIS plan will outline:
Your goals (both short and long-term)
The types of funding you’ve been allocated
How your plan will be managed (e.g. self-managed, plan-managed, or NDIA-managed)
Once you receive your plan, you’re free to begin using it — with help from a Support Coordinator or Plan Manager if needed.
What Does the NDIS Fund?
The NDIS funds "reasonable and necessary supports" related to your disability that help you:
Achieve your goals
Increase your independence
Participate in community or work life
Improve health and wellbeing
Common Supports the NDIS Covers:
Allied health services (e.g. physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychology)
Daily personal activities and supports
Home modifications
Mobility equipment and assistive technology
Transport assistance
Employment-related supports
Support coordination or plan management
It's important to note that the NDIS doesn’t cover daily living costs unrelated to your disability, such as rent, groceries, or entertainment.
Who Delivers These Supports?
NDIS supports are delivered by registered or unregistered providers across Australia. As a participant, you get to choose the providers who best match your needs, values, and lifestyle.
About ProCare Solution
At ProCare Solution, we provide compassionate, personalised NDIS support services designed to help you get the most out of your plan. From Support Coordination to daily assistance, our team is here to walk the journey with you — ensuring you feel supported, not just serviced.
How is an NDIS Plan Managed?
You have three options for how your NDIS funds are managed:
1. Self-Managed
You handle the financials — including paying providers, tracking budgets, and keeping receipts.
2. Plan-Managed
A registered Plan Manager (like ProCare Solution) takes care of payments and reporting, giving you choice and control without the admin stress.
3. NDIA-Managed
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) pays providers directly. You can only use registered providers with this option.
Many participants choose Plan Management because it offers flexibility without the paperwork.
Why the NDIS Exists: A Rights-Based Approach
Before the NDIS, disability supports in Australia were inconsistent and underfunded. The NDIS was created to fix that — shifting the model from charity to rights. It’s based on the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, recognising that people with disability have the same right to choice, opportunity, and dignity as everyone else.
What If I Don’t Agree With My Plan?
If you’re unhappy with your plan, funding amount, or decisions made by the NDIA, you can request a review. You also have the right to appeal decisions to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
Your journey with the NDIS should feel fair and transparent. Organisations like ProCare Solution can help you understand and navigate the review process, ensuring you get the support you deserve.
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of the NDIS
The NDIS is more than just a funding scheme — it’s a movement towards inclusion, independence, and opportunity. While the process can feel confusing at first, the key is to focus on your goals, ask for help when you need it, and work with trusted providers who genuinely care.
At ProCare Solution, we’re committed to helping you navigate the NDIS with confidence, clarity, and compassion. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to get more from your current plan, our team is here to support your journey every step of the way.
Key Summary
The NDIS is a government-funded program that supports Australians with significant, permanent disabilities.
It’s designed to give participants control, choice, and access to services that improve independence and quality of life.
Supports are tailored through an individualised plan based on your goals and needs.
Funding is available for services like therapy, daily assistance, assistive tech, and support coordination.
Plans can be managed by you, a plan manager, or the NDIA.
If you're unsure where to begin, speaking with a provider like ProCare Solution can help make the process simpler and more empowering.
Need Help Navigating the NDIS?
Reach out to our friendly team at ProCare Solution to get started or get more from your current plan. We’re here to make the NDIS work for you — not the other way around.
Call us today or contact us through the website to connect with a team that listens, supports, and delivers.
