Understanding if you are eligible for government support can be confusing. The Australian Government has two main systems for funding support:
The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme): For people under 65 with a permanent and significant disability.
My Aged Care: For people over 65 (or 50 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) who need support with daily life.
It’s important to know which system you should apply for. This guide will help you understand the general criteria for both.
The NDIS provides funding to people with a permanent and significant disability to help them live an ordinary life. To apply for the NDIS, you must meet the following criteria:
You must be under 65 when you first apply.
You must be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
You must have a disability that is likely to be permanent (lifelong).
You must need support because your disability:
The only way to know if you are eligible is to apply. The NDIS has a free eligibility checklist you can use as a guide before you start.
The My Aged Care system is the main entry point for government-funded aged care services, including in-home support (like CHSP or a Home Care Package) and Residential Aged Care homes.
You are generally 65 years or older (or 50 years or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people).
You have noticed a change in what you can do or need:
To find out what services you are eligible for, you must have an assessment. This is organised for free through the My Aged Care website.
We know this can seem overwhelming. Our expert Adelaide team has helped hundreds of people understand these systems and get the support they need.
You don't have to do this alone. Contact us for a free, no-obligation chat about your situation, and we will point you in the right direction.
