I’m an Autistic Adult – Can I Get NDIS Funding?

Autism also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. It has various influences on individuals, the manner in which they think, communicate, feel and how they relate with the world around them. That is why they say autism is like a spectrum, one cannot have two people feeling the same way about autism.

In the event that you are an autistic adult residing in Australia, perhaps you are asking yourself whether you can access support under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or not. Left out on your own as one of 1 in 100 Australians on the spectrum, you are not the only one as many are supported by NDIS.

What Kind of NDIS Support Is Available for Autistic Adults?

NDIS funds people with disabilities to enable them to get the appropriate support and services. This covers the people with autism among the adults with regards to the amount of support required.

Nevertheless, this is not automatic since not all the diagnosed may qualify. The eligibility to NDIS is established on the level of support required by individuals in everyday activities. You may be eligible to receive it, in case you were found to have Level 2 autism (with substantial support needs) or Level 3 ones (with very substantial support needs).

When you are not sure of the level you are in, a health professional can advise. Find out more about the levels of ASD to have a better idea what they imply.

How the NDIS Defines Disability

In Australia, the NDIS applies the definition of disability of the 2018 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers (SDAC) produced by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Based on this definition, a disability is:

Any restriction, limitation or impairment that causes difficulty to a person in performing his or her daily activities and has been present or is expected to be present, at least six months.

It is a significant definition within the context of NDIS eligibility, particularly, when you have NDIS eligibility and you are on the autism spectrum.

General NDIS Eligibility Criteria

As an individual, in order to receive NDIS funding that you will have to fulfill the following condition:

• Be below 65 years of age
• It is an Australian citizen, permanent resident or a Protected Special Category visa holder
• The fact is that I am living in Australia.
• Be permanently disabled- a disability which is not curable
• Suffer a serious impairment (one which impacts your day-to-day activities)
• Receive continuous assistance to yourself or family

If you’re not sure whether you meet all the criteria, you can complete the NDIS eligibility checklist to get a better idea.

What Happens If I’m Eligible?

Under the condition that you meet all the requirements you will go through the following steps:

Step 1: Make an NDIS application

You may use an online or a paper application.

Step 2: Present Evidence

You should also have documents of a qualified health professional that can clarify your diagnosis, functional effects and requirement of support.

Step 3: Provide Your Details

After fulfilling all the required documents, the NDIS will get to work on your application and inform you of the result.

And in case you need assistance throughout the process, you can have someone in the family, friend, or any support person help you. You may also reach your local NDIS office and seek guidance.

What If My Application Is Approved?

When your application is successful they will make a match with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC). They will collaborate to develop a customised support plan which is depending on your goals and needs. Your plan can cover some or all of the following: therapies, support in everyday living, assistive technology or assistance in gaining access to work or study.

When your plan is prepared, you will be able to decide how to spend your funding. At Support Network we can help you to get the right services and the support of the right workers to help you reach your goals.

What If I’m Still Waiting or Don’t Have NDIS Funding?

You can be able to get support despite being in the waiting list or having not been approved yet. Other sites will enable you to meet freelance support workers and pay privately. This way you do not need to wait before getting the help you require.

How Support Network Can Help

At Support Network, we understand that navigating autism and NDIS can be overwhelming. Our team is here to guide you through every step – from understanding your eligibility to helping you apply, build a plan, and connect with the right support workers.

Even if you’re just getting started or unsure where to begin, we’re ready to support you.