Understanding NDIS Jargon: Breaking Down Key Terms

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming, especially with the amount of jargon and technical terms used. Whether you’re a new participant, a carer, or simply looking for clarity, understanding these terms can help you make informed decisions about your plan and supports. In this blog, we break down common NDIS terminology and what it means for you.



Common NDIS Terms Explained

1. National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

The NDIS is a national system that provides support to Australians with disabilities, their families, and their carers. It funds a range of services to help participants achieve their goals, increase their independence, and participate in the community.



2. National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA)

The NDIA is the government agency responsible for implementing and managing the NDIS. It makes decisions about eligibility, funding allocations, and plan approvals.



3. Reasonable & Necessary Supports

A key principle of the NDIS, reasonable and necessary supports are those that help participants achieve their goals, increase independence, and participate in the community. To be funded, a support must:

• Be directly related to the participant’s disability.
• Represent value for money.
• It should not be covered by other government services (like Medicare or education).
• Be likely to provide benefits to the participant.

🔹 Example: A wheelchair for improved mobility or occupational therapy sessions to build life skills.



4. Core, Capital & Capacity Building Supports

NDIS funding is divided into three main categories:

• Core Supports: Everyday essentials like personal care, transport, and social inclusion activities.
• Capital Supports: High-cost items such as assistive technology and home modifications.
• Capacity Building Supports: Services that improve independence, such as therapy, skills training, and employment support.

🔹 Example: Speech therapy (Capacity Building), a mobility scooter (Capital), or in-home support (Core).

5. Plan Management

This refers to how your NDIS funds are managed. There are three options:

• Self-Managed: You handle payments and budgeting yourself.
• Plan-Managed: A registered Plan Manager manages your funds, pays invoices, and helps you track spending.
• NDIA-Managed: The NDIA pays providers directly, but you are limited to NDIS-registered providers.

🔹 Example: If you want more flexibility in choosing providers, Plan Management gives you access to both NDIS-registered and non-registered providers.

6. Support Coordination

A Support Coordinator helps participants understand and implement their plan by:

• Connecting them with service providers.
• Helping them navigate the NDIS system.
• Ensure that their support aligns with their needs and goals.

🔹 Example: If you’re unsure where to start after receiving your NDIS plan, a Support Coordinator can help you find the right services.



7. Service Agreement

A Service Agreement is a formal contract between an NDIS participant and a service provider that outlines the support to be delivered and the costs and responsibilities of both parties.

🔹 Example: Before starting therapy, a participant and their occupational therapist sign an NDIS Service Agreement detailing session frequency and costs.



8. Service Booking

A Service Booking is made through the NDIS portal, allocating funding to a specific provider for agreed-upon services. This ensures the provider is paid for the services they deliver.

🔹 Example: A participant books funding for weekly physiotherapy sessions through the NDIS portal.



9. Local Area Coordinators (LACs)

LACs work for NDIS partner organisations and help participants access the NDIS, develop their plan, and connect with local services.



🔹 Example: Your LAC may assist in preparing for your plan review or linking you to community programs.

10. Plan Reviews

Each NDIS participant undergoes a plan review to ensure their funding continues to meet their needs. This can be:

• Scheduled Review: Typically occurs annually.
• Unscheduled Review: Can be requested if circumstances change.
• Change of Circumstances Review: If a participant’s situation has significantly changed (e.g., increased support needs), they can request a plan reassessment.

🔹 Example: If your disability support needs increase, you may request a review to adjust your funding.