Understanding the NDIS

Everything you need to know about the National Disability Insurance Scheme — and how FlexCare can help you make the most of your plan.

Person reviewing an NDIS plan with a support coordinator
NDIS RegisteredFlexCare Provider
What Is the NDIS?

Australia's national disability support scheme

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government program that funds disability supports for eligible Australians under 65 who have a permanent and significant disability.

The NDIS provides participants with an individualised funding plan — money allocated across different support categories to help you achieve your goals, live more independently and participate in your community.

FlexCare Support Australia is a registered NDIS provider, meaning we meet the quality and safeguarding standards required to deliver supports directly from your NDIS plan.

Am I Eligible?

NDIS eligibility criteria

To access the NDIS, you generally need to meet the following requirements.

Age

You are under 65 years of age at the time of your NDIS access request.

Residency

You are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.

Disability Requirement

You have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to take part in everyday activities.

Early Intervention

You are a child under 7 with developmental delay, or an individual where early supports would reduce future needs.

Psychosocial Disability

Your primary disability is a mental health condition that is permanent and significantly impacts daily functioning.

Evidence of Disability

You can provide evidence from medical, allied health or specialist professionals supporting your access request.

Not sure if you're eligible? Talk to our team — we can guide you through the access process.

The NDIS Journey

How your NDIS plan works

From first access to ongoing support — here's how the NDIS process unfolds.

Access Request

You (or someone on your behalf) submit an access request to the NDIA with evidence of your disability. The NDIA assesses eligibility — this can take several weeks.

Planning Meeting

Once approved, you meet with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to discuss your goals and the supports you need. Bring evidence and prepare your goals in advance.

NDIS Plan Approved

Your plan is approved with funding allocated across support categories. You can then choose registered providers like FlexCare to deliver your supports.

Choose Your Provider

You choose a provider (or multiple providers) that match your needs and values. With FlexCare, we walk through your plan and explain exactly how we can help.

Supports Begin

Your supports commence and are delivered according to your plan. Your provider claims directly from your plan budget for services delivered.

Plan Review

Plans are typically reviewed annually (or earlier if your needs change significantly). This is your opportunity to adjust goals and funding levels for the next period.

NDIS Budget Categories

How your NDIS funding is structured

NDIS plans are divided into three main support budget categories. FlexCare delivers supports across Core and Capacity Building budgets.

Core Supports

Funding for everyday activities and disability-related needs. The most flexible budget category.

  • Daily personal activities & hygiene
  • Community participation & social access
  • Transport assistance
  • Consumables & assistive products

Capacity Building

Funding to build your skills and independence over time. Targeted to specific support categories.

  • Life skills & independence programs
  • Social & communication skills
  • Support coordination linkage
  • Improved daily living

Capital Supports

Funding for significant one-off purchases such as assistive technology or home modifications.

  • Assistive technology devices
  • Home modifications
  • Specialist disability accommodation
  • Vehicle modifications
Plan Management

Three ways to manage your NDIS plan

FlexCare works with participants across all three plan management types.

NDIA-Managed

The NDIA manages your plan and pays your registered providers directly on your behalf. You can only use registered providers like FlexCare.

Agency Managed

Plan-Managed

A registered plan manager handles your invoices and financial reporting. You can use both registered and unregistered providers with greater choice.

Plan Managed

Self-Managed

You manage your own funds, pay providers directly and keep records. Maximum flexibility and choice over who you engage as a provider.

Self Managed
How FlexCare Helps

Making the most of your NDIS plan

Navigating the NDIS can feel overwhelming. We're here to simplify it — and to make sure your funding works as hard as possible for you.

Plan Walkthrough

We'll go through your NDIS plan with you, explain each budget category and show you exactly how our supports align with your funded goals.

Service Agreements

We provide clear, plain-English service agreements outlining exactly what supports will be delivered, when and at what cost — no hidden fees.

Transparent Reporting

We provide detailed progress notes and reports so you, your support coordinator and your plan manager always know how your funding is being used.

Plan Review Support

When your plan review comes around, we provide evidence of goals achieved and supports delivered to help you advocate for the right level of funding.

Coordinator Collaboration

We work closely with your support coordinator to make sure all your providers are connected and your plan is implemented effectively.

Ongoing Support

Our team is always available to answer questions about your plan, adjust your schedule or help you navigate changes to your supports.

We're here to help

Have questions about your NDIS plan?

Our team can walk you through your plan, explain your options and help you access the supports you're entitled to.