Introduction

Getting a diagnosis—whether it’s for yourself, your child, or someone you support—can be life-changing. But often, what follows is silence. No step-by-step guide. No clear direction. No handbook.

For many families and individuals navigating disability for the first time, this moment is filled with confusion and overwhelm.

That’s where this guide comes in.

We’ll break down what happens after a diagnosis, how to get started with the NDIS, and what supports are available—so you’re not left feeling lost in the system.

🧠 Why a Diagnosis Isn't a Roadmap

Receiving a diagnosis like autism, cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, psychosocial disability or intellectual disability may offer clarity, but it rarely offers direction.

Doctors and specialists often stop at diagnosis. But life doesn’t.

Families are left to figure out:

• How to access early intervention
• Whether they're eligible for the NDIS
• What services to contact first
• What supports they even need

🧭 Step-by-Step: What to Do After a Diagnosis

Step 1: Take Time to Process

It’s okay not to have all the answers right away. Breathe. Allow space for emotional processing.

Talk to:

• Your GP
• A psychologist or social worker
• A support group (in-person or online)

Step 2: Understand the Diagnosis

Ask your clinician or GP for:

• A written report
• Functional assessments
• Referrals to specialists or allied health

This documentation will be critical for NDIS access if needed.

Step 3: Explore NDIS Eligibility

Use the NDIS Access Checklist (available on the NDIS website).

To qualify, a person must:

• Be under 65
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• Have a permanent and significant disability that affects daily function

Step 4: Gather Supporting Evidence

You’ll need:

• Diagnosis reports
• Functional impact assessments (OT, psych, speech, etc.)
• GP summary letters
• Any current service reports

📌 Refer to the NDIS Access Request Supporting Evidence Form—this streamlines the process.

Step 5: Submit an NDIS Access Request

You can:

• Call the NDIS and request a form
• Submit through your GP
• Get help from a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Partner

Real-World Tip: Many people are rejected at this stage due to incomplete evidence—not ineligibility.

Step 6: While You Wait… Access Interim Supports

If you’re not yet approved, consider:

• Medicare-funded therapy (e.g., Mental Health Care Plans)
• State-based disability programs
• School supports or early intervention
• Community health services

Step 7: Once Approved—Build a Support Team

You’ll meet with an NDIS planner or LAC to create your first plan.

You may choose to include:

• Support coordination
• Therapy supports (OT, speech, psych)
• Core supports (personal care, community access)

This is where knowing what you need becomes crucial.

👨‍👩‍👧 A Hypothetical Example: Ella, Age 4

Ella was recently diagnosed with global developmental delay. Her parents were overwhelmed and unsure where to start. They:

1. Spoke with their paediatrician and obtained a written report
2. Asked their GP to help complete the NDIS Access Request
3. Contacted their local Early Childhood Partner for support
4. Received NDIS approval and were connected with a speech therapist and OT within 2 months

Ella’s mum said, “We thought the diagnosis would answer everything—but it was the first step in a much longer journey.”

📉 Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Assuming someone else will submit paperwork

🚫 Delaying evidence collection

🚫 Using only a diagnosis without functional assessments

🚫 Feeling like you must “do it all” alone

🧰 How Assist Providers Can Help

We work with both new and experienced participants to:

✅ Understand the NDIS application process

✅ Gather quality supporting evidence

✅ Connect with trusted providers

✅ Navigate first plans with confidence

✅ Train your team if you're an organisation supporting new families

You don’t need a handbook—just a helping hand.

💬 Final Thoughts

A diagnosis can be overwhelming—but it can also be the first step toward accessing meaningful, life-changing support. The NDIS is complex, but with the right guidance, you can make empowered decisions that lead to long-term outcomes.

You’re not alone. And you don’t have to do it all yourself.