Current information about accessing mental health services through NDIS, including recent policy changes and advocacy strategies for families.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for people with psychosocial disabilities - disabilities that arise from mental health conditions and significantly impact daily functioning. However, not everyone with a mental health condition experiences psychosocial disability, making understanding of eligibility criteria crucial for families seeking support.
Psychosocial disability refers to the functional impacts of mental health conditions rather than the conditions themselves. The NDIS funds supports for people whose mental health conditions create significant difficulties with everyday tasks, social participation, or independent living. This distinction is important because the NDIS focuses on functional impairment rather than diagnosis alone.
Recent legislative changes have created new frameworks for accessing NDIS supports. The National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Act 2024, which commenced on October 3, 2024, introduced new definitions of "NDIS support" and updated criteria for reasonable and necessary supports.
Fixed budgets and funding periods have been introduced to address budget sustainability concerns. From October 2024, new plans have fixed budgets and stricter approval processes for additional funding, which may impact families who previously relied on frequent plan reviews or flexible funding arrangements.
Changes to therapy classifications have affected art and music therapy, with reduced funding rates and increased focus on group sessions rather than individual therapy. However, after community feedback, the NDIA is reviewing these changes with findings expected by March 2025.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy continues to be funded for children with autism, despite some misinformation suggesting blanket restrictions. ABA and Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) therapy remain classified as NDIS supports under the transitional rules, provided they meet all reasonable and necessary criteria.
Eligibility assessment focuses on functional impact rather than diagnosis alone. Children must demonstrate that their mental health condition creates significant difficulties with daily activities, social participation, or development. Supporting evidence from healthcare professionals, schools, and family members helps establish eligibility.
Mental Health Community Support Services (MHCSS) provide assistance with the NDIS access process. These services help families gather supporting evidence, complete access request forms, liaise with healthcare providers, and navigate the application process at no cost to families.
Early childhood supports have been enhanced through recent policy changes, with the NDIA implementing an "early childhood approach" specifically for children under seven. This includes clearer guidelines for developmental delay criteria and new early connections guidelines to support families.
Capacity Building supports include psychology, social work, behavior support, and therapeutic interventions designed to build skills and independence. From June 30, 2025, all therapy services will be claimed under Capacity Building rather than Core funding, affecting how supports are accessed and managed.
Core supports may include assistance with daily activities, transport, and consumables, depending on individual needs and plan goals. However, changes to Disability-Related Health Supports mean some services previously available under Core funding will be reclassified.
Capital supports can include assistive technology, home modifications, and vehicle modifications that support independence and participation in community activities.
Families have rights to request specific plan management arrangements, seek reviews of decisions, and appeal NDIS determinations. Understanding these rights is crucial for ensuring children receive appropriate supports for their mental health needs.
Support coordination can help families navigate the NDIS system, connect with appropriate providers, and maximize plan utilization. Many families find support coordination particularly valuable during initial NDIS participation or when significant changes occur.
Advocacy support is available through various organizations and can include assistance with access applications, plan reviews, and appeals processes. Some NDIS providers offer advocacy support as part of their service offerings.
No GP referral is required to access psychology or social work services through NDIS funding. Participants or their support coordinators can make referrals directly to registered NDIS providers who offer mental health supports.
Shared care approaches work best, with providers collaborating with support coordinators, other team members, and families to ensure comprehensive support. This integrated approach helps maximize outcomes while avoiding service duplication.
Provider experience with the NDIS system can significantly impact service quality and plan utilization. Families should seek providers who understand NDIS processes and can help navigate system requirements effectively.
New early intervention pathways are being developed to improve access for children with mental health needs. These pathways aim to provide earlier support and prevent conditions from becoming more severe.
Assessment and budgeting reforms are planned, with the NDIA working with the disability community to design and implement changes that better meet participant needs. These reforms may impact how mental health supports are assessed and funded in the future.
Impairment notices will be provided to all new participants from January 1, 2025, and to existing participants when they transition to new plans. These notices will clarify whether participants meet disability or early intervention pathways.
Planning for transitions is important as children age and their needs change. Families should work with support coordinators and providers to ensure plans remain relevant and supports continue to meet evolving mental health needs.
We can help you understand NDIS eligibility and access appropriate mental health supports for your child. Let us guide you through the process.
