The NDIS uses a lot of terms and acronyms that can be confusing if you're new to it. This guide explains some of the most common ones in plain English.
NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme. It is an Australian government scheme that provides funding to eligible people with disability to access supports and services.
NDIA
The National Disability Insurance Agency. This is the government agency that administers the NDIS.
Participant
A person who is eligible for and has been accepted into the NDIS. Participants receive an NDIS plan that sets out their funded supports.
NDIS Plan
A written document that sets out a participant's goals and the supports funded by the NDIS. Plans are typically reviewed every 12 months.
Planner
An NDIA representative who works with a participant to develop their NDIS plan. The planning discussion is where goals and supports are discussed.
Choice and Control
A key principle of the NDIS. It means participants have the right to make decisions about their own lives, including their supports and goals.
Core Supports
A category of NDIS funding that covers everyday activities, such as assistance with daily living, transport, consumables and social participation.
Capital Supports
A category of NDIS funding for higher-cost items, such as assistive technology and home modifications.
Capacity Building Supports
A category of NDIS funding designed to help build skills and independence over time, such as improved living arrangements, finding and keeping a job, and improved relationships.
Plan Management
How an NDIS plan's funding is managed. There are three main options: NDIA-managed (agency-managed), plan-managed and self-managed.
Plan Manager
A professional who handles the financial administration of an NDIS plan on behalf of a participant, including paying providers and tracking the budget.
Registered Provider
A provider that is registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. NDIA-managed participants can only use registered providers.
Support Coordinator
A person who helps a participant understand and implement their NDIS plan, connect with providers and build their capacity to manage their own supports.
Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
A local organisation that works with the NDIA to help people access the NDIS and develop their plans. LACs are often the first point of contact for people entering the NDIS.
Review
A scheduled or requested reassessment of a participant's NDIS plan. Plans are typically reviewed every 12 months, but a review can be requested earlier if circumstances change.
Official Sources
For the most current and detailed definitions, visit the official NDIS website at ndis.gov.au.
This guide is for general information only and does not constitute advice about your individual circumstances. Terms and definitions may change. Always check the official NDIS website for the most current information.