Your Most Asked NDIS Questions – Answered

At Parability Support, we know that understanding and navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Whether you're just getting started, already approved, or reviewing your plan, there's a lot to get your head around.

To help, we’ve put together clear answers to five of the most searched questions about the NDIS in Australia. These are the questions we hear every day—and chances are, you’ve asked some of them too. Read on for practical, no-fuss guidance.

Most Asked NDIS Questions:

1. How can the NDIS help me reach my goals?

The NDIS isn’t just about funding—it’s about empowering people with disability to live life on their own terms. The scheme is built around your individual goals, which are set during your planning meeting. These might include improving your independence, learning new skills, joining community activities or finding work.

Depending on what you want to achieve, your NDIS plan can include supports such as:

• Help with daily living activities like cooking or personal care

• Social and community participation support

• Therapy or skill-building programs

• Assistance with finding and maintaining employment

• Support coordination to help you use your plan effectively

By focusing on your goals, the NDIS helps create a personalised roadmap for the life you want to lead. At Parability Support, we work closely with participants to ensure their supports are not just funded, but aligned with their vision for the future.

2. How do I apply for the NDIS?

Applying for the NDIS involves a few key steps. It starts with checking your eligibility and gathering the right documentation to support your request.

Here’s a step-by-step overview:

1. Check eligibility: You must be under 65, live in Australia and have a permanent and significant disability.

2. Submit an Access Request: This can be done by calling the NDIS or completing the form online. You'll need supporting documents from your GP, specialist or allied health professionals.

3. Have a planning meeting: If approved, you’ll meet with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIA planner to talk about your goals and the supports you need.

4. Receive your plan: Your NDIS plan outlines your funding and how it can be used.

   
   

It can take some time, and it’s okay to ask for help. At Parability Support, we’re happy to assist individuals and families with preparing access requests or getting ready for a planning meeting.

3. What does the NDIS fund?

The NDIS funds supports that are considered “reasonable and necessary” to help you live a more independent and fulfilling life. These are not one-size-fits-all. Your funding is based on your personal situation and goals.

Funding is generally grouped into three areas:

• Core Supports: These help with everyday activities such as personal care, domestic help, social participation and transport.

• Capacity Building: These supports focus on developing skills and independence. They may include therapy, support coordination, or programs to build life skills.

• Capital Supports: This category covers more significant investments like assistive technology, home modifications or mobility equipment.

  
  

The NDIS won’t cover general living expenses like groceries or rent, but it will fund supports that help reduce the impact of your disability on daily life. If you're unsure about how your funding can be used, our team at Parability Support can explain your options in plain language.

4. How can I manage my NDIS plan?

Managing your plan well is key to getting the most out of your funding. You have three main choices when it comes to plan management:

• NDIA-managed: The NDIA handles payments to providers directly, but you can only use NDIS-registered providers.

• Plan-managed: A registered plan manager (chosen by you) looks after the financial side of your plan, including paying invoices, budgeting and reporting. You can use both registered and non-registered providers.

• Self-managed: You’re responsible for managing your own budget, paying invoices and keeping records. This option gives you the most flexibility but also the most responsibility.

  
  

Plan management is a personal choice, and it’s okay to change your preference later. Many participants find that working with a plan manager or support coordinator makes things easier. At Parability Support, we offer plan implementation and coordination services to help you make the most of your funding with less stress.

5. How do I choose the right NDIS provider?

Choosing the right provider is one of the most important decisions you’ll make with your NDIS plan. A good provider doesn’t just offer a service—they partner with you to achieve your goals.

Here’s what to consider when choosing a provider:

• Are they registered with the NDIS? While you can use unregistered providers (depending on how your plan is managed), registered providers follow NDIS quality and safeguard standards.

• Do they understand your goals? The best providers take time to listen, ask questions and build a support plan around what you want.

• Are they reliable and responsive? You deserve timely, respectful and consistent support.

• Do they offer flexibility? Your needs may change over time, and your provider should be willing to adapt.

  
  

At Parability Support, we’re proud to deliver participant-first services that are inclusive, responsive and goal-driven. From community participation to in-home support and coordination of supports, we tailor everything we do to the person in front of us.

Ready to Get the Right Support for Your NDIS Journey?

Whether you’re new to the NDIS, managing a current plan, or looking for a more supportive provider, Parability Support is here for you. Our team is committed to making the NDIS easier to understand and easier to use, and we’re always ready to answer the Most Asked NDIS Questions to help you feel confident and informed.

Let us walk alongside you—every step of the way.

📞 Contact us today to learn how we can help support your goals and simplify your NDIS experience.