NDIS Autism Support

What is the NDIS?


NDIS Support for Autism

Open Minds is a not-for-profit organisation that works to support people living with a variety of Autism Spectrum Disorders. We provide services that help our customers access the NDIS autism support, build their independence, learn new skills and develop positive behaviours.

It’s common for people living with autism to require specialised supports. Depending on the severity of the diagnosis, autism can have a major impact on the way you learn, interact with others and cope with your surroundings. To make services available to people who need them, Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) enables those living with autism to access funding for a range of supports.

Open Minds takes a personalised approach to designing support programs for customers living with autism. We’ll work with you and your support networks to develop a plan that helps you achieve your goals and reach your potential.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – Autism?

A diagnosis of ASD now includes several conditions that were once diagnosed separately: Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Atypical Autism and Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).

Autism is a developmental disorder that commonly affects how a person learns, how they interact with others and how they cope in their surroundings.

This means individuals on the Autism Spectrum may struggle with learning difficulties, communicating, socialising, coping with their environment and emotional regulation.

It’s critical that supports are properly managed for all cases of autism, however, those diagnosed with a Level 2 or 3 ASD may require more functional capacity supports and NDIS autism funding.

NDIS for Autism Requirements

To take the first steps in accessing NDIS funding for autism, participants must meet a few basic requirements. You need to:

  • Be under the age of 65
  • Be an Australian citizen, Permanent Visa holder or hold a Protected Special Category Visa
  • Meet the NDIS disability requirements, or;
  • Meet the NDIS early intervention requirements

Accessing the NDIS for Autism

Autism Spectrum Disorders are divided into three levels depending on your diagnosis and support needs. For the purposes of determining NDIS eligibility, you must obtain a diagnosis from one of the following specialists:

  • Paediatrician
  • Psychiatrist
  • Clinical Psychologist
  • Specialist in a multi-disciplinary team

Qualified professionals diagnose ASD in accordance with the criteria set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th Edition (DSM-5). The DSM-5 separates the various features of ASD into two categories: Social/Communication and Behaviour. These categories are used to help identify which supports and disability services you need to manage your autism diagnosis and navigate any challenges that come along with it.

Then following a confirmed diagnosis of ASD you will receive a level.

  • ASD Level 1: requires support
  • ASD Level 2: requires substantial support
  • ASD Level 3: requires very substantial support

ASD Level 1 – Am I Eligible for the NDIS?

  • People with a Level 1 diagnosis will need to provide additional reporting and further substantiating evidence to access NDIS autism funding. 

    You will need to show that your disability has a significant impact on your life, such as by affecting your mobility, communication, social interactions, learning, self-care, self-management or similar areas.

ASD Level 2 & Level 3 – Am I Eligible for the NDIS?

  • With a Level 2 or Level 3 ASD diagnosis, you are considered to have a permanent impairment of functional capacity. The NDIS provides automatic access to funding with no further assessments required.

    All levels of ASD diagnosis can qualify for early intervention funding. Given that early intervention is often the key to managing an autism diagnosis, it’s a good idea to seek advice early on, especially if you are looking to help a child or young person.

What Autism and NDIS Support Will I receive?

NDIS plans are personalised to meet your specific situation and care requirements. Depending on your disability, regular care needs and your goals, your NDIS plan can provide you with a variety of support opportunities.

This can include providing support with your therapies (such as for learning or communication difficulties), technologies and equipment to help with your daily activities, or modifications to your home where required.

Open Minds is a registered NDIS provider that specialises in providing customers with a range of capacity building services. Our staff and partnered providers are equipped to manage and support any complex needs you may have, ensuring you get the most value from your NDIS funding.

Please note: Open Minds does not currently provide services to children under 12 years of age.

Contact Us

Send an enquiry through the form below and we’ll respond within 24 hours.

Call us for free on 1300 673 664
or contact our Head Office in Woolloongabba on (07) 3896 4222

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