Applying for NDIS support with Autism

The first step in your NDIS journey is the initial application process. Getting yourself familiar with the types of support you may require, how to apply with all the right documentation and recognising the support team that can help you are all critical to the success of your application.

To apply for NDIS support with autism you will need to complete the access request form with the help of your healthcare team, attaching any evidence and assessments of your diagnosis while including information about how your disability impacts your daily life. You must have an official ASD diagnosis.

At Maple, we have ample experience guiding our valued clients through the application process and setting them up for a holistic and gratifying NDIS journey. We’re here to support you to live your life to the fullest.

What support is available for autism?

We are fortunate to live in a country that has a lot of support for those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Government, community and non profit organisations offer services and financial support to enhance the well-being, development and participation in society for people with Autism.

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

The National Disability Insurance Scheme provides a range of supports for people living with autism to enhance their quality of life, independence, and community participation. NDIS support is tailored to the unique needs of each participant and based on a person centred and holistic approach. Some of the key aspects include:

Early intervention services tailored to specific needs of young people dealing with an autism diagnosis.
Assistance with daily living, household tasks, and personal care
Helping you to participate within the community with group outings, shopping, banking or other activities.
Assistance with plan management for those who choose not to self-manage.
Accessible and adapted housing options within close proximity to amenities.
Development of life skills to enable independent living.
Travel and transportation services for appointments or pleasure to connect you where you need to go.

Special education programs are offered in many schools across the country to support students with autism.
Teachers aides offer additional support in the classroom to assist with learning and social interactions.
Individualised education plans (IEPs) can be tailored to address the unique learning needs of students with autism.
Supported employment programs to assist applicants with autism in gaining and maintaining employment.
Job coaching offers support to develop workplace skills and facilitate successful employment.

As well as the NDIS which is specifically designed for people living with disabilities, the Australian government also has other initiatives that might be helpful to you.

Medicare guarantees all citizens access to a wide range of health services. The Chronic Disease Management Plan, the Better Access to Mental Health Plan and Helping Children with Autism (HCWA) are all plans under Medicare designed to support people with autism.
Centrelink can offer a range of payment options for people with autism as well as their parents or carers. These include Carer Allowance, Carer Payment (children), Child disability assistance payment, carer supplement, disability support pension and the Health care card.

How do I apply for the NDIS with Autism?

In order to apply for NDIS funding with an Autism diagnosis, there are a few important steps to follow:

Access Request Form

The first thing you will need to do is complete an access request form. This will ask you to provide information about your age, residency, and your disability. If you are unsure about how to fill out the form you can contact the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) on 1800 800 110 and they can assist you in completing the form over the phone.

Supporting Documentation

You will need your treating health professional to fill out section 2 of the form. If you already have all the existing reports and assessments you can attach these to the form as evidence of your diagnosis.

Submit application

Once you have completed the form and gathered all of the supporting documentation needed, you can then submit these to the NDIS either by email at NAT@ndis.gov.au or via post at GPO Box 700, Canberra, ACT 2601.

If you meet the NDIS autism eligibility, our team at Maple Community Services is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need throughout the application process. We can assist you in gathering all of the necessary information for your application, and can even connect you with a Local Area Coordinator who can provide you with additional support.

Additionally, if you require assistance with managing your funding once you have been approved, we can introduce you to a Plan Manager who can help you to oversee all of your funding and make sure you.

Learn more about Autism NDIS Eligibility