i.
Option one
Self-managed
You pay providers directly and claim the money back from the NDIA. Full control, more paperwork.
- +Any provider, registered or not
- +You handle invoices and claims
A plain English guide
The National Disability Insurance Scheme funds the supports you need to live the life you want. Here is how it works, in plain language.
A national scheme. A budget for the supports you need. Run by the Australian Government.
The NDIS stands for the National Disability Insurance Scheme. It is a national programme run by the Australian Government. The scheme funds reasonable and necessary supports for people who live with a permanent and significant disability.
The NDIS does not replace Medicare or aged care. It pays for things like personal care, community access, equipment, and skill-building that sit outside the usual health system.
Each participant gets a plan with a budget, and that plan covers the supports agreed in your planning meeting.
There are three things the NDIA checks before they approve access. Most participants meet them in a single application.
Run the official eligibility checkLive in Australia
As a citizen, permanent resident, or Protected Special Category Visa holder.
Under 65 when you first apply
Already on the NDIS at 65? You can choose to stay.
Permanent disability that affects daily life
Or eligible for early intervention. Evidence comes from your treating health professional.
Not sure? Ring the NDIS.
1800 800 110Every NDIS plan is managed in one of three ways. Bright Companion works with all three, so the choice is yours.
Option one
You pay providers directly and claim the money back from the NDIA. Full control, more paperwork.
Option two
A plan manager pays your invoices and tracks the spend. Choice without the bookkeeping.
Option three
The NDIA pays your registered providers directly. Simplest setup, registered providers only.
Tell us which suits you and we will set the invoicing up to match.
Use the access checker or call the NDIS.
Send through your medical evidence and forms.
Talk through your goals, daily life, and the supports you want.
Once approved, you can start using your funded supports.
Already have a plan?
The journey is shorter. Send a referral and we will book a free meet and greet within one business day.
Straight links to the official sources. We have read them, so you don't have to read them blind.
Bring your goals and your plan. We will work out what fits and what to skip. No pressure, no quotes until you are ready.