Not eligible for NDIS? Here’s what you can do
Going through the complex and exhausting application process, only to find out you’re not eligible for the NDIS, can feel like a huge setback. However, this is not the end of your journey towards getting the support you need.
If you’re not eligible for NDIS funding, you could consider other government and state programs that offer support, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or aged care services. If you want to review the NDIA’s decision, gather additional evidence and seek help from a Local Area Coordinator.
At Maple, we have ample experience with the intricacies of applying for NDIS funding in Australia and the nuances that surround eligibility. If you were not successful in your application we’re here to help you explore other options and ensure you still have access to valuable disability support services.
Why am I not eligible for NDIS funding?
First of all, let’s explore the reasons why your application found you to not be eligible for National Disability Insurance Scheme funding. Some common reasons include:
- Residency requirements – To be eligible for the NDIS, you must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa. If you aren’t then you will not be considered for the scheme.
- Age criteria – The NDIS is only available to people aged under 65. If you are 65 or older you could access other services such as the Commonwealth Home Support Programme or aged care services. Additionally, there are other services available for children and young people.
- Disability or condition – To qualify, you must have a permanent and significant disability or impairment that affects your ability to perform everyday tasks.
- Not applicable for early intervention – If the NDIS determines that your medical condition does not require early intervention (services that aim to reduce future support needs), this may affect eligibility.
- Lack of evidence – If you haven’t provided enough medical or functional evidence to demonstrate the impact of your disability, your application might be declined. It’s important to submit comprehensive reports from health professionals that outline how your disability affects your daily life.
- Accessing other support systems – If you’re already receiving support from another system, such as a health or mental health system, you might not be eligible for NDIS funding, as the NDIS aims to complement, not replace, other government programs.
If you’re unsure why your application was declined or would like to improve your eligibility, consider speaking with an NDIS planner, Local Area Coordinator (LAC). You can also appeal the decision or request a review if you believe you do need the criteria. Reach out to our professional team at Maple, who have ample experience with the intricacies of NDIS applications. You can also take our simple eligibility quiz to get an idea of whether you may be eligible.
[NDIS Funding and Eligibility]
What can I do if I’m not eligible for the NDIS?
If you are not eligible for NDIS funding, fear not, this isn’t the end of the road on your support journey. Thankfully, there are still several other options to help you get the support you need.
Australian Commonwealth Government Services
These include health, education, housing, and community programs that can help with your needs.
- Aged care support – If you are over 65, (or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) you may qualify for the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP) or aged care services, which can provide help with daily activities, home care, and other supports for older people.
- Disability Employment Services – DES helps people with disability find and maintain employment. They can offer training, resume writing, job placements, and workplace modifications.
- Carer Gateway – Offers support and resources for carers of people with disability and provides carer payments, respite services, counselling, and online resources.
- Better Access Initiative – Provides subsidised mental health services, such as counselling and psychological therapy, for people with disability who may also experience mental illness.
- National Companion Card Scheme – Allows carers of people with severe or profound disabilities to attend activities and events for free when accompanying the person they care for.
State and Territory-Based Services
- State disability services
Many states and territories offer disability support services provided outside the NDIS. Each state and territory offers tailored disability support programs, often through their Department of Health or Human services. Services include housing support, respite care, therapy and community participation programs. For example:
- Victoria: Disability Support Services (Department of Families, Fairness, and Housing).
- New South Wales: Ageing, Disability, and Home Care (ADHC).
- Queensland: Disability Services and Supports through the Department of Seniors, Disability Services, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships.
- Taxi subsidy schemes
Many states also offer tax subsidies for people with disabilities to assist with transport costs. Eligibility and coverage may vary by region. Examples include:
- Concessions and financial support
Many state governments offer concessions for utilities, public transport, and vehicle registration for people with disabilities. In addition, some states provide specific financial assistance programs to help with the cost of assistive technology or modifications to the home or vehicle.
- Respite care
States often fund respite care services for people with disabilities and their families, offering short-term care solutions to provide breaks for primary caregivers.
- Community participation programs
State governments fund programs aimed at increasing the social and community involvement of people with disabilities through clubs, sports, and community support groups. Your local council or community centre might offer programs, workshops, and resources for people with disabilities, such as social groups, recreational activities, or local transport assistance.
- Housing and accommodation support
Many states provide programs that offer supported accommodation, housing assistance and tenancy support for people with disabilities to live independently. For example:
Other options for people living with disabilities
- Community and non-profit services – Many community organisations, charities, and non-profits offer disability support services, such as respite care, mental health support, or assistive technology, often at low or no cost.
- Advocacy and support groups – Disability advocacy organisations can help you understand your rights, navigate available services, and appeal NDIS decisions if necessary. They can also connect you with other funding sources and support networks.
- Medicare and other government schemes – Some disability-related services, such as allied health (e.g., occupational therapy, physiotherapy) or mental health support, may be available through Medicare or other government programs, such as the Mental Health Care Plan.
Can I request an NDIS application review?
If your NDIS application was declined, it’s a good idea to review the decision and identify areas for improvement. Start by carefully reading the reasons provided by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) for your ineligibility and gather additional evidence if needed. This might include medical reports, functional assessments, and letters from healthcare professionals that clearly show how your disability affects your daily life.
Ensure your application outlines the support you need to achieve your goals and how the NDIS can help improve your independence or participation in the community. You can request an internal review within 3 months if you believe the decision was incorrect or incomplete.
If the internal review doesn’t change the outcome, you have the option to appeal the decision through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (ATT). Additionally, working with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC), support coordinator, or disability advocate can be helpful in navigating the review process and strengthening your application. Keep in mind that if your circumstances or support needs change, you can reapply or request a new assessment with updated information.
Feel free to contact our team today to find out more about what to do if you are not eligible for NDIS funding.
