How Long Does the NDIS Application Process Take? A Complete Timeline Guide

Understanding the NDIS application timeline helps you plan and manage expectations during this important journey. The process involves several stages, each with specific timeframes that can affect your overall experience.

Complete NDIS Application Timeline

The NDIS application process typically takes 3-6 months from start to finish. This timeframe varies based on your individual circumstances and how quickly you provide required information.

Your journey includes three main stages:

• Eligibility assessment

• Planning meeting

• Plan approval

Each stage has different requirements and timeframes set by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).

Eligibility Decision Timeframes

The NDIA has 21 days to decide your eligibility once they receive your complete application. This includes reviewing your identity documents and disability evidence.

If the NDIA needs more information, they will contact you within this 21-day period. You then have at least 90 days to provide the additional information they request.

After receiving your additional information, the NDIA has 14 days to make their final eligibility decision.

Current performance data shows only 9% of eligibility decisions meet the 21-day target, while 13% meet the 14-day target after receiving additional information.

NDIS Planning Meeting Process and Duration

Once approved for the NDIS, you will receive a phone call to arrange your planning meeting. The NDIA aims to schedule this within 7 days of your eligibility decision.

Planning Meeting Duration

Your planning meeting typically lasts 1-2 hours. The exact duration depends on your specific circumstances and support needs.

During this meeting, you will discuss:

• Your current supports and providers

• Daily living activities and challenges

• Safety and accommodation needs

• Goals you want to pursue

• How you prefer to manage your funding

• Types of support you need

Meeting Format Options

You can choose to have your planning meeting:

• Over the phone

• Video call

• Face-to-face

Many planning meetings now happen over the phone. Make sure you have good reception and a quiet space if choosing this option.

Bring any relevant reports or assessments to support your discussion. Send these to your planner beforehand if possible.

NDIS Plan Approval Timeline

After your planning meeting, the NDIA aims to approve your plan within specific timeframes:

• Adults and children 9 years and older: 56 days

• Children under 9 years: 90 days

Current performance shows 86% of general plans meet the 56-day target, while 99% of plans for children under 9 meet their target.

Your approved plan becomes available on the NDIS myplace portal within 24 hours of approval. You will also receive a printed copy by mail or in person.

What the NDIS Considers When Approving Your Plan

The NDIA evaluates all supports against reasonable and necessary criteria before including them in your plan.

Reasonable and Necessary Requirements

Each support must meet all these criteria:

• Relates to your disability: The support directly addresses your disability-related needs

• Helps achieve your goals: Supports assist you in pursuing goals outlined in your plan

• Facilitates participation: Helps you join social, work, or study activities by reducing disability barriers

• Represents value for money: Costs and benefits are reasonable compared to alternatives

• Likely to be effective: Evidence shows the support works for people with similar needs

• Considers informal supports: Takes into account what family and community reasonably provide

• Is an NDIS support: Falls within NDIS funding categories

Decision-Making Process

The NDIA bases decisions on the NDIS Act and operational guidelines. They consider:

• Information from your planning meeting

• Evidence from treating professionals

• Your lived experience and personal goals

• Current good practice for your type of disability

• How supports work together to reduce other needs

Your planner weighs multiple types of evidence when making funding decisions. Recent evidence from qualified professionals carries significant weight.

Tips for a Smoother Process

Start gathering documents early in your application process. Collect:

• Medical reports from treating professionals

• Assessment reports

• Evidence of how your disability affects daily life

• Information about current supports

Contact your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) if you need help with your application. They can guide you through the process and answer questions.

If you experience delays beyond the stated timeframes, contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110 to follow up on your application status.

The NDIS application process requires patience, but understanding these timeframes helps you track progress and know when to follow up. Focus on providing complete, accurate information at each stage to avoid delays and ensure you receive appropriate supports for your needs.