NDIS information
Understanding the NDIS
A plain-language guide to help families and carers navigate NDIS funding and access allied health supports.
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government program that provides funding to people with a permanent and significant disability. It helps participants access the supports and services they need to live more independently and reach their goals.
The NDIS is managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). Participants receive an individual plan that outlines their goals and the funding available to achieve them.
Need help navigating the NDIS? The NDIA helpline is available on 1800 800 110 (Monday–Friday, 8am–8pm). You can also visit ndis.gov.au.
Who is eligible for the NDIS?
To access the NDIS, you must meet certain criteria. Here's what you need to know:
Early Intervention Support
If you're under 7 and have a developmental delay or disability, you may be eligible for early intervention supports through the NDIS. Early support can make a significant difference in a child's development and outcomes.
Understanding your NDIS plan
Your NDIS plan is personalised to your goals and needs. It outlines the funding available and the supports you can access.
Plan types
NDIS plans can be managed in different ways: self-managed (you manage the funds), plan-managed (a plan manager handles administration), or agency-managed (the NDIA manages it). Each option offers different levels of flexibility and support.
Plan review
Your plan is reviewed annually or when your circumstances change. Regular reviews ensure your plan continues to meet your goals and that you're getting the most from your funding.
Changing your plan
If your needs change or you're not happy with your current plan, you can request a plan review or appeal. The NDIA is committed to supporting you to achieve your goals.
Plan flexibility
NDIS plans are flexible. You can change providers, adjust your supports, and move funding between categories to better suit your needs and preferences.
How NDIS funding works
Your NDIS plan includes funding across different support categories. Allied health services like those provided by United Care Network typically fall under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living.
Self-managed
You manage your own NDIS funds and pay providers directly. This gives you the most flexibility to choose any registered or unregistered provider.
Plan-managed
A plan manager handles your invoices and payments on your behalf. You still choose your providers, but the plan manager takes care of the financial administration.
United Care Network works with self-managed and plan-managed participants. If your funding is agency-managed, please contact us to discuss your options.
NDIS support budget categories
Your NDIS plan allocates funding across different support categories. Here are the main categories that typically cover allied health services:
Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living
CB Daily ActivityCovers assessments, therapy, and skill-building supports from allied health professionals including behaviour support, psychology, occupational therapy, and speech therapy.
- Speech and language therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Behaviour support
- Psychology and counselling
- Physiotherapy and exercise physiology
Capacity Building — Support Coordination
CB Support CoordinationCovers key worker and support coordination services to help you implement your plan and connect with providers.
- Support coordination
- Key worker services
- Plan implementation support
- Provider connection and liaison
Core Supports — Assistance with Daily Life
Core Daily ActivitiesMay cover support worker services that assist with daily living tasks and community participation.
- Support worker services
- Community participation support
- Daily living assistance
- Social and community access
Behaviour support through the NDIS
Behaviour support is a specialised service that helps people develop strategies to manage behaviours of concern and improve their quality of life.
What is behaviour support?
Behaviour support is a personalised service delivered by trained Behaviour Support Practitioners. It involves developing a Behaviour Support Plan that outlines strategies to address behaviours of concern and promote positive behaviours.
The goal is not to punish or suppress behaviour, but to understand the underlying causes and teach new, more effective ways of communicating and coping.
Who might benefit from behaviour support?
Restrictive practices
The NDIS is committed to reducing and eliminating restrictive practices. Behaviour support should always focus on positive, evidence-based strategies that respect the person's rights and dignity. If you have concerns about restrictive practices, please contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
The behaviour support process
Assessment
A Behaviour Support Practitioner conducts a comprehensive assessment to understand the person's strengths, needs, and the factors contributing to behaviours of concern.
Plan development
Based on the assessment, a personalised Behaviour Support Plan is developed. This outlines strategies, environmental modifications, and communication approaches.
Implementation
The plan is implemented across all settings (home, school, community). Training is provided to family members, carers, and support workers.
Monitoring and review
Progress is monitored regularly. The plan is reviewed and adjusted based on outcomes and changing needs.
Allied health services through the NDIS
Allied health professionals can help you develop skills, manage symptoms, and improve your independence and quality of life.
Speech and Language Therapy
Speech pathologists help with communication, swallowing, and language development. Services are tailored to individual needs and goals.
Can help with:
- Speech and language development
- Communication strategies
- Swallowing difficulties
- Voice and fluency issues
- Social communication skills
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists help people develop skills for daily living, work, and leisure. They focus on independence and participation.
Can help with:
- Daily living skills
- Fine motor development
- Sensory processing
- Work and school readiness
- Environmental modifications
Behaviour Support
Behaviour Support Practitioners help develop strategies to manage behaviours of concern and promote positive behaviours.
Can help with:
- Behaviour management strategies
- Positive behaviour support
- Social skills development
- Emotional regulation
- Family coaching and support
Psychology
Psychologists provide assessment, therapy, and support for mental health, emotional wellbeing, and psychological development.
Can help with:
- Mental health support
- Emotional regulation
- Anxiety and stress management
- Trauma-informed care
- Cognitive development
How to access NDIS supports
Check your eligibility
To access the NDIS you must be under 65, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and have a permanent disability that significantly affects your daily life.
Apply to the NDIS
Contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110 or visit ndis.gov.au to start your access request. You'll need supporting evidence from a treating health professional.
Receive your plan
Once approved, you'll receive an NDIS plan outlining your goals and funding. A Local Area Coordinator (LAC) can help you understand and implement your plan.
Choose your providers
With your plan in place, you can choose allied health providers. United Care Network works with self-managed and plan-managed participants across Melbourne.
Start your supports
Contact us to discuss your goals and how our mobile services can help. We'll come to your home, school, or community setting — wherever works best for you.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to get started?
Whether you're new to the NDIS or looking to change providers, we're here to help. Get in touch or make a referral today.