Who is Eligible for NDIS

You can join the NDIS if you are under 65 and live in Australia. You also need to have a disability that is likely to stay with you. In 2026, the NDIS uses a new talk called a Support Needs Assessment to see if you fit. We help people across Melbourne and Victoria check these rules every day.

The NDIS Eligibility Checklist

The NDIS is for people who need help with things like moving, talking, or self-care. Most people apply before they turn 65. If you have a child under 9, they can get help through the early childhood approach. This help is there even if they do not have a full diagnosis yet.

Applying in 2026 looks a bit different than it used to. The NDIS now uses the PACE system. This means they look more at your daily life in Victoria than just a doctor's note. We see many families in Hume and Whittlesea navigate this new path. It starts with a simple check of your age and where you live.

Are You the Right Age?

You must be under 65 years old on the day you apply. This is the main rule for everyone in Australia. If you are older than 65, you usually apply for My Aged Care.

If you are already in the NDIS and you turn 65, you can stay. You don't have to leave the scheme. Many of our clients in Craigieburn keep their NDIS plan for years as they get older. This lets them keep their favorite support workers.

Do You Live in Victoria?

To get NDIS, you must live in Australia. You also need to be a citizen or have a permanent visa. This ensures the funds go to people who live here for the long term.

It doesn't matter if you live in a Melbourne flat or a farm in rural Victoria. The rules stay the same. We work with people from Broadmeadows to the Yarra Valley to get their paperwork ready. If you move house within Victoria, your NDIS follows you.

What is a Permanent Disability?

The NDIS is for disabilities that are "permanent and significant." Permanent means it is likely to stay with you for life. Significant means it really stops you from doing everyday tasks.

This might be a physical disability, like needing a wheelchair. It could be a learning disability or a mental health condition. If your disability makes it hard to shower, cook, or go to work, you meet this rule. We help you explain these struggles to the NDIS in plain words.

Support for Kids Under 9 Years Old

Children have a special way into the NDIS. If a child is under 9 and has a delay in their growth, they can get help. This is part of the early childhood approach.

For kids under 6, you don't even need a final diagnosis. If they are falling behind in school or play, the NDIS can step in early. Families in Essendon and Keilor use this to build daily living and life skills for their little ones. Early help often means they need less help later on.

The New 2026 Support Needs Assessment (SNA)

The NDIS changed things in 2026. They now use the Support Needs Assessment or SNA. This is not a test. It is a long talk with a trained NDIS person. They want to know what your "average day" looks like in Melbourne.

They will ask about your house, your friends, and your goals. They use this talk to figure out your budget. We often go with our clients to these meetings so they feel safe. You can learn more about how support coordination works with these new SNA rules.

Proving Your Disability

You still need some proof from a professional. This might be your GP or a local therapist in Victoria. They need to write about what you can't do because of your disability.

In 2026, the NDIS tries to make this less about "medical jargon." They care more about your "functional capacity." This is just a fancy way of saying "how you get through the day." You can see the official NDIS guidelines for a full list of what they look for.

Mental Health and the NDIS

Yes, you can get NDIS for mental health. This is called a psychosocial disability. To be eligible, the condition must be permanent. It must also stop you from doing things like shopping or seeing friends.

Many people in Victoria find this part of the NDIS hard to navigate. We help by connecting you with a psychosocial recovery coach. They help you build a life that feels good again. They are experts in the Melbourne mental health system.

What if Your Application is Rejected?

It is common for the NDIS to say "no" the first time. If this happens, don't give up. You can ask for an internal review. This means a new person looks at your case.

You have 3 months to ask for this review. Often, you just need to provide a better story about your daily life. We've seen many people in Victoria get approved on the second try. We can help you look at your letters to see what is missing.

How to Get Started in Victoria

The first step is to call the NDIS or find a Local Area Coordinator (LAC). They have offices in most Melbourne suburbs. They will give you the "Access Request Form" to start.

You can also call us at Made To Help. We know the Victorian system from the inside out. We can talk you through the rules before you even fill out a form. Getting the right start makes the whole journey much easier.

Common Questions About Joining

Can I apply if I have a job in Melbourne?

Yes. Your bank account doesn't matter to the NDIS. It is not like Centrelink. Even if you work full-time, you can get help if your disability makes life hard.

Do I have to pay for the assessment?

No. The NDIS Support Needs Assessment is free. You don't have to pay the person who talks to you. If you need a special doctor's report, the NDIS can sometimes help pay for that too.

How long does it take to get an answer?

Usually, it takes a few months. The NDIS has to check your residency and your medical notes. In 2026, the new PACE system is making things move a bit faster in Victoria.

Can I choose my own doctors for the proof?

Yes. You should use the doctors who know you best. A GP in your local Melbourne suburb is a great place to start. They can explain your history better than a stranger.

What if I live in a group home?

You are still eligible. The NDIS helps people in all kinds of housing. We help many people in shared living get the right funding for their needs.