NDIS Information Guide
The NDIS can feel overwhelming at first. We've put together this plain-English guide to help participants and families understand how it works, what you're entitled to, and how to make the most of your plan.
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is an Australian Government initiative that provides funding and support to people with permanent and significant disabilities. It's designed to give participants choice and control over the supports they receive — helping them live more independently, pursue their goals, and participate fully in their communities.
Unlike previous disability support systems, the NDIS is individualised — meaning your funding is based on your specific needs and goals, not a one-size-fits-all approach. You choose the providers you want to work with, and you decide how your funding is used within your plan.
The NDIS is managed by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) and is available across all states and territories in Australia. If you're in the Moreton Bay or Somerset Regions, True North Trusted Supports is here to help you navigate it.
What can a support worker help with?
Support workers play a hands-on role in your day-to-day life. They're there to assist you with the things that matter most — from personal care at home to getting out and about in the community. Here's a look at the kinds of support our team can provide.
Personal Care & Daily Living
- Bathing, showering, and personal hygiene
- Dressing and grooming assistance
- Toileting and continence support
- Meal preparation and eating assistance
- Medication prompting and administration
In-Home Support
- Household cleaning and tidying
- Laundry and ironing
- Meal planning and cooking
- Grocery shopping assistance
- Home organisation and safety
Community Access & Social Participation
- Attending community events and activities
- Visiting friends and family
- Shopping, errands, and appointments
- Sporting and recreational activities
- Volunteering and social inclusion
Health & Complex Support
- Complex bowel and continence care
- Wound care and dressing changes
- Medication management
- Health monitoring and chronic disease support
- High-intensity personal care needs
Building Skills & Independence
- Developing daily living routines
- Building confidence in the community
- Practising communication and social skills
- Supporting goal-setting and progress
- Encouraging choice and self-determination
Innovative & Creative Participation
- Peer mentoring and leadership opportunities
- Technology-assisted participation
- Tailored community engagement plans
- Creative and arts-based activities
- Exploring new interests and experiences
Not sure what's covered in your plan? Every participant's NDIS plan is different. Our team can help you understand what supports you're funded for and how to make the most of your plan. Give us a call — we're happy to help.
How to access the NDIS
Getting started with the NDIS involves a few key steps. Here's what to expect from the process.
Check your eligibility
To access the NDIS, you need to be under 65 years of age, an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and have a permanent disability that significantly affects your daily life. The NDIS website has an eligibility checker to help you get started.
Submit an access request
Contact the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or visit myplace.ndis.gov.au to submit an Access Request Form. You'll need to provide evidence of your disability from a treating health professional. The NDIS will assess your request and let you know the outcome.
Attend your planning meeting
Once approved, you'll be invited to a planning meeting with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC). This is your opportunity to talk about your goals, your daily life, and the supports you need. Being prepared with a list of your goals and current supports can make a big difference.
Receive your NDIS plan
After your planning meeting, you'll receive your NDIS plan. This document outlines your goals and the funding allocated across different support categories. Take the time to read it carefully — if something doesn't look right, you can request a review.
Choose your providers
With your plan in place, you can start choosing the registered NDIS providers who will deliver your supports. You're in control — you can choose providers that best match your needs, values, and goals. This is where True North Trusted Supports can step in.
Start your supports
Once you've chosen your providers and signed a Service Agreement, your supports can begin. Your plan is reviewed regularly — usually every 12 months — to make sure it continues to meet your needs as your life and goals evolve.
Understanding your NDIS funding
NDIS funding is divided into three broad categories. Understanding what each category covers helps you make the most of your plan.
Core Supports
Funding for everyday activities and supports — things like personal care, community participation, and consumables. Core funding is generally the most flexible category and can often be used across different support types within the category.
Capacity Building
Funding to help you build skills and independence over time. This includes supports like Support Coordination, improved daily living, employment support, and social participation programs. Capacity Building funding is tied to specific support categories.
Capital Supports
Funding for higher-cost items like assistive technology, home modifications, and Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). Capital funding is allocated for specific items and cannot be used for other purposes.
Tip: Your NDIS plan will show the funding allocated to each category. If you're unsure what your funding covers or how to use it, a Support Coordinator can help you understand your plan and connect you with the right providers.
How True North can help
Once you have your NDIS plan, True North Trusted Supports can deliver a range of registered supports to help you achieve your goals. We work with you to understand your plan, explain your options, and make sure you're getting the most out of your funding.
Whether you're new to the NDIS or you've had a plan for years, we're happy to have a no-pressure conversation about how we can support you. No jargon, no complicated processes — just a genuine chat about what you need.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some of the questions we hear most often. If yours isn't here, just give us a call — we're happy to help.
Useful NDIS resources
Still have questions?
We're always happy to have a chat. Whether you're just starting out with the NDIS or you've had a plan for years, reach out and we'll do our best to help.