How Does the NDIS Work?
The NDIS funds disability supports for Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. Here is how it works — from your first eligibility check to getting the most out of your plan.
Last reviewed: July 2026
The NDIS in five steps
Most people start with eligibility. Already a participant? Jump to managing your plan.
Check your eligibility
You may be eligible if you have a permanent and significant disability, are under 65 when you apply, and live in Australia as a citizen or permanent resident.
Check eligibility →Submit an Access Request
You will need supporting evidence from your treating professionals. The NDIA assesses your request and confirms whether you qualify.
Access Request form →Prepare for your planning meeting
Bring your goals, daily routines and current supports. A clear picture of your needs leads to a stronger plan.
Planning tips →Choose how to manage your plan
Self-managed, plan-managed or NDIA-managed — each has trade-offs. More than 66% of participants choose plan management.
See your options →Plan review and reassessment
Your plan is reviewed every 12–24 months. Prepare evidence of what your current plan has and has not covered to support a strong outcome at review.
Plan review guide →Three ways to manage your plan
You can mix and match — for example, plan-manage your therapies but self-manage your transport. There is no single right answer.
Lowest admin, least flexibility
The NDIA pays providers on your behalf. You can only use NDIS-registered providers.
- No paperwork for you
- Registered providers only
- NDIA pricing applies
All providers, no extra cost
A plan manager pays your invoices and tracks your budget. Funded separately — does not reduce your plan.
- Any provider, registered or not
- No cost to you
- Real-time budget tracking
Maximum control, more admin
You pay providers directly and claim back from the NDIA. Maximum flexibility — including non-registered providers.
- Most freedom and choice
- You hold the records
- You handle the claims
How long does the NDIS process take?
From your first enquiry to having an active plan, the NDIS involves several stages. Knowing what to expect at each reduces uncertainty — and helps you prepare the right evidence at the right time.
Access decision: up to 21 days
The NDIA is required to make an access decision within 21 days of receiving a complete application. In practice, it often takes longer if supporting evidence is incomplete or additional information is requested. Strong evidence from treating professionals submitted upfront is the single biggest factor in a faster decision.
Planning meeting: 2–6 weeks after access
Once you are approved as an NDIS participant, the NDIA or your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) will contact you to schedule a planning meeting. Wait times vary by region. Preparing your goals, current supports, and daily routine before the meeting leads to a more comprehensive plan.
Plan approval: 1–4 weeks after meeting
Your NDIS plan is typically approved and activated within a few weeks of your planning meeting. You will receive a copy through the myNDIS portal. From this point you can begin engaging providers and setting up your chosen plan management arrangement.
First payment: within days of your first invoice
Once your plan is active and your plan manager is in place, providers submit invoices directly to your plan manager. Most registered plan managers process payments within 2–5 business days. The faster your plan manager processes claims, the better your relationships with support workers and service providers.
Why 66% of participants choose plan management
It is free, it removes paperwork, and it opens up a wider pool of providers — all without touching your therapy or support worker budgets.
- Free~$104.45/month funded by the NDIA separately, does not reduce your other supports
- Any providerUse registered or unregistered providers, including sole traders
- No invoicingProviders send invoices directly to your plan manager, not you
- Budget visibilityReal-time tracking via a portal or app
- Error protectionPlan managers catch overbilling before it is claimed
- Review supportSpending data helps build your case at plan renewal
Common questions, plainly answered.
If your question is not here, talk to our team or browse the blog.
Is plan management free?
Yes. The NDIA funds "Improved Life Choices" in your plan separately — approximately $104.45/month. It does not reduce your therapy, support worker or equipment budgets by a dollar.
How long does NDIS approval take?
The NDIA aims to make an access decision within 21 days of a complete application, though it often takes longer if evidence is incomplete. Once approved, expect 2–6 weeks for a planning meeting and a further 1–4 weeks for your plan to be activated. Allow 2–4 months from initial application to your first active plan as a working estimate.
Can I switch plan managers?
Yes, at any time with no penalty. Give written notice (most require 14–30 days), sign a new service agreement, and your new plan manager takes over. See our guide on how to switch plan managers.
Do I need a support coordinator and a plan manager?
They do different things. A support coordinator helps you find and connect with providers. A plan manager pays your bills and tracks your budget. Many participants have both — funded separately in the plan.
What is "reasonable and necessary"?
The NDIA's test for whether a support gets funded. It must relate to your disability, represent value for money, and help you pursue your goals.
Ready to find an NDIS plan manager?
Answer five quick questions and we will match you with the right registered plan manager — free, independent, no obligation.