Can I Get NDIS Funding and Centrelink?

If you’re receiving Centrelink payments and wondering whether you’re also eligible for NDIS funding (or vice versa), you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions we hear, especially from people navigating disability supports for the first time.

The good news? Yes, in many cases, you can receive both Centrelink and NDIS support at the same time.

But they are very different systems, and understanding how they work together can help you get the most out of both. In this blog we delve into the logistics of getting Centrelink and NDIS support.

The Difference Between Centrelink and the NDIS

Before we dive into eligibility, let’s get clear on what each system is:

• Centrelink is run by Services Australia and provides financial payments and income support to Australians. They payments include the Disability Support Pension (DSP), Carer Payment, Carer Allowance, Youth Allowance, and JobSeeker.
• The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) provides funding for reasonable and necessary supports for people with a permanent and significant disability. This includes things like support workers, therapy, assistive technology, and help with daily tasks.

Centrelink supports your income. The NDIS supports your disability needs.

Because they serve different purposes, receiving one doesn’t automatically qualify (or disqualify) you from the other. And, many people are eligible for both.

Can I Get the NDIS if I’m Already on Centrelink?

Yes. Many NDIS participants are already receiving Centrelink payments, especially the Disability Support Pension (DSP) or Carer Allowance.

But being on Centrelink doesn’t automatically mean you’ll get NDIS funding. You still need to meet the NDIS access requirements.

Here’s what the NDIS looks for:

• You’re aged under 65 when applying
• You’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
• You have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to do everyday tasks
• You require support from someone else, or special equipment, or need ongoing assistance to reduce the impact of your disability

So, while Centrelink may already recognise your disability through the DSP, you’ll still need to submit an NDIS access request and provide medical evidence showing your functional impairments.

Can I Get Centrelink If I Already Have NDIS Funding?

Also yes. If you’re receiving NDIS funding, you may also be eligible for Centrelink payments. This depends on your circumstances.

Some of the most common Centrelink payments that NDIS participants receive include:

• Disability Support Pension (DSP) – if your condition is permanent, fully diagnosed, and meets the impairment tables
• Carer Payment or Carer Allowance – if someone provides daily care for you (or you provide care for someone else)
• Youth Allowance, JobSeeker, Age Pension – depending on your age, work capacity, and income

Just keep in mind that NDIS funding is not counted as income for Centrelink purposes, which is a big plus. So receiving an NDIS package won’t reduce your Centrelink payments.

However, some funded supports in your NDIS plan may affect what Centrelink will pay for, especially if you get Carer Allowance. For example, if your NDIS plan pays for a support worker to assist with tasks a carer used to do, Centrelink may reassess your carer’s eligibility.

Can I get Centrelink if I Care For an NDIS Participant?

If you’re a carer for someone who receives NDIS support, you may be eligible for:

• Carer Payment (a fortnightly income support payment if you can’t work full-time)
• Carer Allowance (a supplement to help with the costs of caring)
• Carer Supplement (an annual payment to eligible carers)

The person you care for doesn’t have to be on the NDIS for you to receive Centrelink carer payments, but if they are, you may be asked to show that your care role is still active (especially if they’ve started receiving paid supports through the NDIS).

Navigating Centrelink and The NDIS

he simple truth is this: you can receive both Centrelink and NDIS funding at the same time. However, one doesn’t automatically qualify you for the other. Each program has its own eligibility criteria, assessment process, and purpose.

That’s why, if you believe you’re eligible, it’s absolutely worth applying for both. Together, they can provide the financial support and daily assistance you need to live more independently.

If you’re unsure where to begin, reaching out to a Support Coordinator, Local Area Coordinator (LAC), or a disability advocate can be a great first step. They can help you understand your options, prepare your applications, and guide you through the process with clarity and care.

Need Help Navigating the NDIS or Centrelink?

Whether you’re just getting started, unsure what you’re eligible for, or need help putting together an application, we’re here to help.

Contact our friendly team today to get personalised support.