NDIS
A guide to the NDIS from Cardinal Care, covering what the scheme is, who is eligible and how to get started.
What is NDIS?
The NDIS, or National Disability Insurance Scheme, is an Australian government initiative that provides personalised support to people with disability. It is run by the National Disability Insurance Agency, or NDIA. The scheme builds a tailored plan for each participant, and that plan can fund therapy, transport, daily supports and home modifications. Eligibility comes down to age, citizenship, disability severity and where you live. NDIS funding is not means-tested and each plan is built around your goals. Cardinal Care helps you understand it all and put your plan to work across Brisbane and Hobart.
The Right Choice to Independence
Personalised Care.
Every support we deliver is shaped around you. Your goals, your strengths and your day-to-day life lead the way.
Quality-Driven Approach.
Our top-tier standards mean you get the best of care, guided by current evidence-based practice and led by qualified clinicians.
Community Connection.
We build genuine local connections and understand the communities we serve. You feel included, supported and like you belong.
Find Out If You’re Eligible
- You must be under 65 years of age when you apply.
- You should be an Australian citizen, a Permanent Visa holder or a protected Special Category Visa holder.
- You must live in an area where the NDIS is available, including Brisbane, south-east Queensland and Tasmania.
- If you do not meet the disability requirements but need early intervention support, you may still be eligible.
Useful Information and Topics on the NDIS
How do I claim consumables with the NDIS?
Consumables are everyday items you use because of your disability, like continence aids or low cost assistive technology. They are funded under the Core Supports budget in the Consumables category. You buy the item, then claim back through the NDIS portal if your plan is self-managed, through your plan manager if it is plan-managed, or directly from the provider if your plan is agency-managed.
What is PACE, the new NDIS portal?
PACE is the upgraded NDIS computer system that the NDIA has rolled out. It replaces the older system and changes how participants, providers and plan managers interact with the NDIS. With PACE, your plan has named providers, and only providers you list, or “endorse,” can claim for stated support categories.
How do I endorse Cardinal Care on PACE?
To endorse us as your provider on PACE, contact your NDIA planner or Local Area Coordinator and let them know you want Cardinal Care added as a “my provider” for the relevant supports. We can walk you through the request if you would like a hand. Once endorsed, we can claim against your plan directly.
When did the NDIS start?
The NDIS began as a trial in 2013 and rolled out across Australia in stages from 2016. It now supports hundreds of thousands of Australians with disability through a single, national scheme.
Who is an NDIS Plan Manager?
A plan manager is a registered provider who handles the financial side of your NDIS plan for you. They pay your invoices, track your budget and keep records, while you focus on choosing supports. Plan management is funded by the NDIS as a separate line in your plan, so it does not eat into your other supports.