Introduction:

Whether you’re new to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), a long-time provider, or supporting someone as a family member or carer — understanding the NDIS’s origin, structure, and current operations is essential.

At Assist Providers, we equip providers with practical insights and strategic clarity. Let’s break down everything you need to know about the NDIS, from its inception to where it’s heading in 2025.

🗓️ When Did the NDIS Start?

The NDIS began as a response to decades of underfunding and inequity in disability services across Australia.

• Launched: 1 July 2013 (Trial phase)
• Full National Rollout: Completed by mid-2020 across all states and territories

It was designed as a once-in-a-generation reform, providing individualised funding to people with permanent and significant disability. It shifted the model from welfare-based funding to choice and control.

🔄 A Brief Timeline of the NDIS

YearMilestone2013Trial sites in Barwon (VIC), Hunter (NSW), SA, and Tasmania2016National rollout begins2020Scheme fully implemented2023–25Major reforms under the NDIS Review and “Reset” agenda

🤝 Who Runs the NDIS?

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) manages the scheme and is accountable to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, which oversees compliance and provider standards.

• NDIA = Participant plans, budgets, eligibility
• NDIS Commission = Provider regulation, audits, behaviour support, complaints

👥 Who Is Eligible?

To be eligible for the NDIS, a person must:

• Be aged under 65 when applying
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or protected special category visa holder
• Have a permanent and significant disability that affects everyday functioning
• Require support from the scheme for daily activities or long-term wellbeing

💰 How Is the NDIS Funded?

The NDIS is jointly funded by:

• The Commonwealth Government
• All state and territory governments

As of 2024–2025, it is estimated the NDIS will support over 660,000 participants, with annual funding exceeding $42 billion.

📂 NDIS Plans: What’s Included?

Each participant receives a tailored NDIS plan, built around their individual goals. Funding falls under support categories such as:

• Core Supports – Everyday activities, transport, consumables
• Capacity Building – Therapy, support coordination, skills training
• Capital Supports – Equipment and home modifications

🔍 Key Updates as of 2025

Several critical updates are in progress or recently implemented:

1. NDIS Review (Final Report 2023):
2. Called for better access pathways, fewer thin markets, and more inclusive mainstream services.
3. Reform Initiatives:
   • Foundational Supports: For people who need lower levels of support
   • Improved early intervention pathways
   • Greater investment in mainstream inclusion (e.g. education, health)
4. Provider Implications:
   • Tighter regulation (including pricing and quality)
   • Stronger participant safeguarding
   • Increased scrutiny of conflicts of interest and dual roles

🧑‍💼 Case Example: Jess, a New NDIS Provider

Jess opened her allied health practice in regional Queensland in 2022. By understanding the history and core framework of the NDIS:

• She aligned her services to high-demand areas (OT, speech therapy)
• Built relationships with local LACs and Support Coordinators
• Passed her NDIS audit in 2023 with strong policy documents and training

Knowing the structure and evolution of the NDIS helped Jess thrive—not just operate.

🛠️ Tools to Stay Informed

NDIS information evolves. Providers should stay updated via:

• www.ndis.gov.au
• NDIS Commission
• Your state’s local area coordinators (LACs) or partner organisations

🧭 Final Word

The NDIS is more than just a funding model—it’s a movement towards inclusion, independence, and empowerment.

Whether you're an experienced provider or a new participant, understanding its roots and how it works today is essential. At Assist Providers, we help providers navigate this space with clarity, compliance, and compassion.