New to the NDIS? Start here.
The NDIS can feel like a lot of new words and paperwork at first. This page explains the basics in plain English: what the scheme is, who it’s for, and how to take the first step. And if anything is unclear, you can always just ask us.
The basics
What is the NDIS?
The NDIS is the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Australia’s way of funding supports for people with a permanent and significant disability. Instead of one-size-fits-all services, each participant receives an individual plan built around their own goals and needs.
The scheme funds supports that are reasonable and necessary: things that help you pursue your goals, take part in everyday life and build independence. That might mean help at home, nursing care, learning new skills or getting out into your community.
Importantly, you choose your providers. The scheme itself is run by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA), and registered providers like Angel Assistance Care are audited against the NDIS Practice Standards, an independent check on the quality and safety of the supports we deliver.
Eligibility
Who can access the NDIS?
Eligibility is decided by the NDIA, not by providers, but as a general guide, the NDIS may be for you if the following apply:
- You’re generally under 65 when you first apply
- You’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident or Protected Special Category Visa holder
- You have a permanent and significant disability that affects your ability to take part in everyday activities
- Early-intervention pathways also exist (including for young children) where getting support now may reduce your needs later
To apply, contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110 or visit ndis.gov.au.
We can’t determine whether you’re eligible. Only the NDIA can do that. What we can do is talk things through with you in plain English, so you feel confident about your next step. We’re happy to chat, no plan required.
Your plan, your way
How funding is managed
Every NDIS plan is managed in one of three ways, or a mix of them. Each option changes who pays the invoices, not the quality of your supports.
NDIA-managed
Also called agency-managed. The NDIA pays your providers directly, so there are no invoices for you to handle. With this option you use registered NDIS providers, and the NDIA keeps track of your budget for you.
Plan-managed
A plan manager (funded through your plan) pays invoices on your behalf and helps you keep track of your budget. You get support with the paperwork while keeping a wide choice of providers.
Self-managed
You (or your nominee) manage the funding yourself: paying providers, keeping records and claiming from the NDIA. It involves the most admin, and gives you the most flexibility over who supports you.
As a registered provider we can support you under any of these. Whichever way your plan is managed, you’re welcome at Angel Assistance Care.
Getting started
Starting with Angel Assistance Care
Once you have a plan (or even while you’re still finding your feet), getting started with us is simple.
Say hello
Call, email or send us a referral, from you, a family member, a support coordinator or an LAC. We’ll respond promptly.
Meet & plan
We meet you (and anyone you’d like involved) at a time and place that suits. We listen to your goals and shape your supports together.
Your supports begin
With a clear service agreement in place, we match you with the right people and your supports start when you’re ready.
We review together
We check in regularly and adjust your supports as your goals and needs change. Your feedback shapes everything we do.
Good to know
Questions we hear often
Do I need an NDIS plan before contacting you?
No. You don’t need a plan, or even to have applied, before you talk to us. We’re happy to have a no-obligation chat, explain how things work in plain English and point you in the right direction. Whenever you’re ready, just get in touch.
Which areas do you service?
We support NDIS participants across Melton, Melbourne’s western suburbs and Greater Melbourne, Victoria. If you’re not sure whether we cover your suburb, ask us. If we can’t help, we’ll say so honestly.
Can you support participants with complex or high-intensity needs?
Yes. Angel Assistance Care is a nurse-led provider, founded and directed by Registered Nurses, and complex care is a big part of why we exist. You can read more about what that covers on our High-Intensity & Complex Care page.
Can I change providers?
Yes. Choice and control sit at the heart of the NDIS. You choose who supports you, and you can change providers if your current arrangement isn’t working. Check the notice period in your existing service agreement, and if you’d like to explore moving to us, we’ll make the change as smooth as we can.
Do you work with support coordinators and LACs?
Yes. We welcome referrals from support coordinators, Local Area Coordinators and other professionals, and we’re glad to work alongside them for as long as you’re supported by us. The quickest way to start is our referral form.
What does support cost?
Our prices are in line with the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits, which set the maximum rates providers can charge for funded supports. Before any support begins, everything is set out clearly in your service agreement, and we’ll talk it through with you. No surprises, no hidden costs.
How do I make a complaint?
Tell us. We genuinely want to know, and raising a concern will never affect your supports. The easiest way is our feedback and complaints page. You can also contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission at any time on 1800 035 544 or at ndiscommission.gov.au.
Have an NDIS question?
Whether you’re thinking about applying, waiting on a plan or ready to choose a provider, we’re happy to talk it through, plainly, patiently and with no obligation.