What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is Australia's system for providing support to people with permanent and significant disabilities. For children, this often includes funding for therapy services like Occupational Therapy and Speech Pathology.
Who is Eligible?
To access the NDIS, your child generally needs to:
- Be under 65 years old
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
- Have a permanent disability that significantly affects their daily life
- Require support to participate in everyday activities
For children under 7, there's also the Early Childhood Approach, which provides early intervention support while eligibility is being assessed.
How to Apply
Step 1: Make an Access Request
Contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or complete an Access Request Form online.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
You'll need supporting documentation such as:
- Medical reports from doctors or paediatricians
- Assessment reports from therapists
- Information about how the disability impacts daily life
Step 3: Wait for a Decision
The NDIS will assess your application and let you know if your child is eligible.
Step 4: Planning Meeting
Once approved, you'll have a planning meeting to discuss your child's goals and the supports they need.
Understanding Your Plan
Your NDIS plan will include funding across different categories:
Core Supports
Funding for everyday activities and therapy services.
Capacity Building
Funding to help your child build independence and skills.
Capital Supports
Funding for equipment or assistive technology.
Plan Management Options
Note: Hop & Learn Therapy is not a registered NDIS provider and works with self-managed and plan-managed participants only.
Plan Managed
A plan manager handles payments and paperwork. You can use registered and non-registered providers.
Self-Managed
You manage your own funding and payments. Most flexibility, but more responsibility.
Tips for Getting the Most From Your Plan
- Come prepared to your planning meeting with clear goals
- Keep records of therapy sessions and progress
- Review your plan regularly—you can request a review if circumstances change
- Ask questions—your support coordinator or therapist can help
How Hop & Learn Can Help
We are not a registered NDIS provider. We work with self-managed and plan-managed participants, and our team can help you:
- Understand how to use your funding for therapy
- Prepare documentation for plan reviews
- Track progress towards your child's NDIS goals
Have questions? Reach out to our friendly admin team—we're here to help make the process easier.
