Get In Touch

NDIS Eligibility & Funding Guide

Not sure what your NDIS plan can cover or how to get started? This guide breaks it down.

Get In Touch

What You’ll Learn Here

Understanding the NDIS can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to work out what supports you can access and what steps come next. This page is here to help you feel clearer and more confident whether you’re applying for the NDIS, waiting for your first plan, or already using funding. Here’s what we’ll walk through step by step:

Am I eligible for the NDIS?

Learn More

Determining NDIS Funding

Learn More

Understanding Funding

Learn More

How Providers Help

Learn More

Who can access the NDIS?

Eligibility depends on age, residency, and disability or early intervention requirements.

To access the NDIS, you generally need to:

  • Be under 65 when you apply
  • Live in Australia and be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a protected special category visa
    If you’re not sure, that’s completely normal.

Many people just need help understanding what evidence the NDIS expects and which pathway is the best fit. To get more detail information, we suggest using the official NDIS eligibility guide. Click the link below to view more.

Determining NDIS Funding

The criteria the NDIS uses to decide what can (and can’t) be funded is known as the “Reasonable and necessary” test.

NDIS funding is designed for supports and services that relate to disability support needs, with the aim of helping participants work towards their goals. What is considered reasonable and necessary can vary from person to person and is assessed by the NDIS based on individual circumstances.

Read more about official NDIS guidelines below.

Read More 
NDIS Dementia Support Newcastle and Central Coast
Understanding your NDIS Funding Support Services Newcastle NSW

Understanding your NDIS funding budgets

Most plans include funding across a few key budget areas.

Not every NDIS plan includes funding in all three support budgets. A few key things to note are:

  • Once again, funding varies by plan; and not every plan includes all three support budgets.
  • Your specific plan funding may differ from someone in a similar situation.
  • The support funded in your plan will depend on your individual circumstances, once again noting that not every plan includes all three support budgets.

Need assistance with understanding your plan?

What Kinds Of Support Might Be Funded?

Funding depends on your goals, needs, and what’s written into your plan.

Our team can assist the participant to use the relevant plan to access and coordinate services that the participant is looking for. Our main goal is to help participants live independently and feel at home.

Explore Our Services
  • Supported Independent Living (SIL)
  • Short Term Accommodation (Respite)
  • Medium Term Accommodation
  • Community Access
  • In-home Care

FAQ’s Participants Have About Our Custom NDIS Support Services

What does “reasonable and necessary” mean?

The supports must relate to disability and help the participant with things like independence, social and economic participation, and wellbeing, and the NDIA assesses supports against its reasonable-and-necessary criteria/guidance.

What is the process for joining Supported Independent Living (SIL)?

The process starts with an initial consultation to understand your needs and preferences. We’ll then work with you, your family, and your support coordinator to identify suitable SIL accommodation options. Once a match is found, we’ll guide you through transitioning smoothly into your new home.

Can I bring my own belongings and personalise my space?

Absolutely! Your space should feel like home. You’re encouraged to bring personal belongings, decorations, and any items that make you comfortable.

How much choice and control do I have over my daily routine?

We believe in participant-led care. You have full control over your daily routine, including meal times, activities, social engagements, and personal care. Our role is to support your choices while ensuring your well-being.

How do I know what support I can use my funding for?

A practical way is to check whether the support fits the NDIA’s reasonable and necessary criteria and aligns with the participants plan goals and budget category. If the participant is unsure, the participant’s LAC/NDIS partner, support coordinator, or plan manager can help the participant confirm what’s appropriate before the participant books a service.

What are the main support budgets in my plan?

Most plans are split into three main budgets: Core Supports, Capacity Building, and Capital Supports. If the participants plan is in the NDIA’s newer system, the participant may see an additional Recurring budget.

How do I apply for the NDIS?

The participant can apply by completing the NDIS Access Request Form and submitting it with the participants supporting information. If the participant sends an application directly, the NDIA will generally connect the participant with an NDIS partner in the area who can assist the participant.

What evidence does the NDIS usually ask for?

The NDIS requires evidence of the participants disability and how it impacts the daily life, usually provided by a treating health professional. The NDIA outlines what “good evidence” looks like and what they may request to make an access decision.

Can I transition from in-home support to SIL in the future?

Yes! If your needs evolve, we can help you transition from in-home support to Supported Independent Living. Our team will guide you through the process and ensure a smooth move that aligns with your goals and NDIS plan.

How do you support independence while providing care?

Our approach is all about empowering you to live as independently as possible. We provide support where needed while encouraging you to develop life skills, make decisions, and maintain control over your day-to-day life.

Can Custom Care & Accommodation help me check my NDIS plan?

Yes, Custom Care & Accommodation states they can review the participants NDIS plan, discuss suitable services, and guide the participant to the best fit.

Talk To Our Team