Age
You must be under 65 when you first apply. Children under 9 are supported through the NDIS early childhood approach.
Working out whether you qualify for government-funded support can feel confusing. This plain-English guide explains the eligibility criteria for both the NDIS and aged care — and our Adelaide team can help you find the right path.
The NDIS funds support for people under 65 with a permanent and significant disability. My Aged Care is the entry point for older Australians who need help with daily life. Knowing which system to apply for is the first step — and the only way to know for sure is to apply or be assessed. We can help you with both.
The NDIS provides funding to people with a permanent and significant disability. To apply, you generally need to meet all of the following criteria.
You must be under 65 when you first apply. Children under 9 are supported through the NDIS early childhood approach.
You must be an Australian citizen, a permanent resident, or a Protected Special Category Visa holder — and live in Australia.
You must have a disability caused by a permanent impairment — intellectual, cognitive, neurological, sensory, physical or psychosocial.
You usually need disability-specific support to complete everyday activities.
You need some support now to reduce your future needs, or to help your family build the skills to support you.
My Aged Care is the main entry point for government-funded aged care. You’re generally eligible if the following apply. Note: on 1 November 2025, Support at Home replaced Home Care Packages; CHSP continues as entry-level support until at least mid-2027.
You are generally 65 or older — or 50 or older for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
You’ve noticed everyday tasks are getting harder, or you need a little help to stay safe and independent at home.
Your eligibility and funding are decided through a free assessment, organised via My Aged Care’s Single Assessment System.
Depending on your needs: entry-level help (CHSP), in-home support through Support at Home, or residential aged care.
Whichever path is right for you, we’ll be alongside you from your first question to your first day of support.
We know this can seem overwhelming. Our expert Adelaide team has helped hundreds of people understand these systems and get the support they need.
Tell us a little about your situation and our Adelaide team will help you understand your options — whether that’s the NDIS, aged care, or working out which one applies.