What age can you access the NDIS?

People aged 7-65 can apply to the NDIS.

For children younger than 9, the NDIA encourages families to talk to an Early Childhood Partner before applying to the NDIS. They can provide supports to children before they apply, and let families know if the NDIS is right for their child.

Note: From 1 July 2023, the age of children supported under the early childhood approach is progressively changing from 7 to 9.

People aged over 65 cannot enter the NDIS, but may be able to get support from the aged care system. Applicants must be under 65 on the day they apply for the NDIS. This means an application needs to be complete, in the format requested by the NDIA, and received by the NDIA before a person turns 65.

However, if a person starts receiving NDIS supports before they turned 65, they can continue to receive services after they’ve aged past 65. In this case, a person can choose whether they want to continue to receive NDIS supports, or whether they’d like to access support through the Commonwealth aged system. 

Artwork by Melissa Pym.