✅ Free check
Could the NDIS be an option for your family?
Six quick questions about age, residency, disability and daily life. Anonymous, takes about a minute, and nothing is stored.
What this check covers
The questions loosely follow the NDIA's access criteria: age, residency, whether the disability is likely to be permanent, and how much it affects everyday life. You'll get a plain-English read on whether an access request looks worth making, and what to do next.
Under 9? Don't wait for a diagnosis
Children under 9 can start early supports through an early childhood partner while assessments are still underway. Early help now often means less support needed later.
⚠️ Guide only.Eligibility is decided by the NDIA through a formal access request (ndis.gov.au or 1800 800 110). This check doesn't collect or store your answers.
How old is the person needing support?
The four things the NDIA looks at
Every access decision comes down to the same checklist. Age: the request must be made before turning 65. Residency: Australian citizen, permanent resident or Protected SCV holder, living here. Disability: an impairment that is permanent or likely to be, whether intellectual, cognitive, neurological, sensory, physical or psychosocial. Impact:it substantially reduces the person's ability to do everyday things - communicating, getting around, self-care, learning, socialising or managing life - without support.
There's also a second doorway: early intervention. If getting support now would reduce how much support a person needs later, that alone can qualify them - this is the main pathway for young children with developmental delay.
If the answer is "apply" - do this next
Call the NDIA on 1800 800 110 and ask for an access request, or ask your GP to help you start one. Then gather the evidence that does the heavy lifting: reports that describe what daily life actually looks like, not just the diagnosis. The clearer the functional picture, the smoother the decision. If access is granted, you'll work with a planner to build a first plan - and that's the moment tools like our budget planner become useful.
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for the NDIS?+
In broad terms: people under 65 when they apply, who are Australian citizens, permanent residents or Protected SCV holders, and who have a permanent disability that substantially reduces their ability to take part in everyday activities. Children under 9 with developmental delay can access early supports through an early childhood partner without a formal diagnosis.
How do I apply for the NDIS?+
You make an access request to the NDIA: call 1800 800 110, or complete the access request form with help from your GP or local area coordinator. You'll need evidence from treating professionals describing the disability, why it's permanent, and how it affects daily life. Applying is free.
What evidence helps an NDIS application?+
Reports from the professionals who know the person best: GP, paediatrician, psychologist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist or specialist. The strongest evidence describes the functional impact - what the person can and can't do without support - rather than just naming a diagnosis.
My child is under 9 - do we need a diagnosis first?+
No. The early childhood approach lets children under 9 get early supports through an early childhood partner while assessment is still underway. If you're concerned about your child's development, you don't have to wait for a formal diagnosis to start.
We already have an NDIS plan - can you help us use it?+
That's exactly what we do. The Happy Human Hub supports children, teens and young adults across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie with respite stays, activity programs, community access and assisted transport. Plan-managed and self-managed participants are welcome.
Whatever the answer, you're not on your own
Whether you're just starting the NDIS journey or already have a plan, we're happy to talk it through. Call (02) 4965 8554 - a friendly chat, no pressure.