Important Information
This page provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or NDIS application advice.
NDIS eligibility is determined by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) based on the legislation, rules, and the information provided in each individual application.
Processes, criteria, and funding rules may change over time. Families should refer to the official NDIS website or seek advice specific to their circumstances before making decisions.
This page provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or NDIS application advice.
NDIS eligibility is determined by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) based on the legislation, rules, and the information provided in each individual application.
Processes, criteria, and funding rules may change over time. Families should refer to the official NDIS website or seek advice specific to their circumstances before making decisions.
Has your child been diagnosed with autism and you're not sure what to do next?
If your child has recently been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), you may have been advised to explore the NDIS.
Many families ask:
This guide explains how the NDIS access process works, what the NDIA considers, and how to prepare your application.
If your child has recently been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), you may have been advised to explore the NDIS.
Many families ask:
- Will my child be eligible?
- What does the application involve?
- What information do I need to provide?
This guide explains how the NDIS access process works, what the NDIA considers, and how to prepare your application.
Can children with autism access the NDIS?
Some children with autism may meet the NDIS access criteria, but eligibility is not based on diagnosis or support level alone.
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) assesses whether a child has:
Some children with autism may meet the NDIS access criteria, but eligibility is not based on diagnosis or support level alone.
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) assesses whether a child has:
- A permanent impairment, and
- A need for disability-specific support due to how that impairment affects everyday life
What the NDIS looks at (Functional Impact)
The NDIA considers how a child’s disability affects their ability to participate in everyday activities compared to other children of the same age.
This may include:
Communication
Social Interaction
Learning and Development
Behaviour and Emotional Regulation
Daily Living Skills
Applications are stronger when they clearly describe what a child needs support with in daily life and why that support is required.
The NDIA considers how a child’s disability affects their ability to participate in everyday activities compared to other children of the same age.
This may include:
Communication
- Understanding or expressing needs
- Using verbal or non-verbal communication
Social Interaction
- Engaging with others
- Developing relationships and play skills
Learning and Development
- Attention, processing, and learning skills
- Developmental progress
Behaviour and Emotional Regulation
- Managing emotions
- Responding to sensory environments
Daily Living Skills
- Dressing, eating, toileting
- Following routines and transitions
Applications are stronger when they clearly describe what a child needs support with in daily life and why that support is required.
Children Under 9: Early Childhood Approach
For children younger than 9, the NDIS uses an early childhood approach.
This means:
If you are unsure where to start, speaking with:
For children younger than 9, the NDIS uses an early childhood approach.
This means:
- Families may be supported through an early childhood partner
- A formal diagnosis is not always required initially for younger children with developmental concerns
- The focus is on early support and developmental needs
If you are unsure where to start, speaking with:
- A GP
- Child health nurse
- Early childhood educator
- Allied health professional
Step-by-Step: Applying to the NDIS
Step 1: Gather Information
You will need information that helps explain:
Step 2: Make an Access Request
You can apply by:
Step 3: Provide Supporting Evidence
The NDIA will review the information provided to determine:
Step 4: NDIA Decision
Timeframes can vary, but decisions are typically made within several weeks depending on the information provided.
Step 5: Outcome
Step 1: Gather Information
You will need information that helps explain:
- Your child’s diagnosis (if available)
- How your child functions in daily life
- What support they need
- Medical or specialist reports
- Existing therapy reports (if available)
- School or daycare information
- Your own observations of daily challenges
Step 2: Make an Access Request
You can apply by:
- Contacting the NDIS directly
- Completing an Access Request Form
- Speaking with an NDIS partner in your area
Step 3: Provide Supporting Evidence
The NDIA will review the information provided to determine:
- Whether the condition is permanent
- How it impacts everyday functioning
- Whether NDIS-funded supports may be required
Step 4: NDIA Decision
Timeframes can vary, but decisions are typically made within several weeks depending on the information provided.
Step 5: Outcome
- Approved: You move to planning and supports
- More information required: Additional evidence may be requested
- Not approved: You may request a review
If Your Application Is Not Approved
If access is not approved, families can:
There may also be other supports available outside the NDIS, depending on your situation.
If access is not approved, families can:
- Request an internal review of the decision (usually within 3 months)
- Provide additional supporting information
There may also be other supports available outside the NDIS, depending on your situation.
What Makes an Application Stronger
Applications are generally clearer when they include:
✔ A description of daily challenges
✔ Examples across different environments (home, school, community)
✔ Information about support needs, not just diagnosis
✔ Input from relevant professionals where available
Applications are generally clearer when they include:
✔ A description of daily challenges
✔ Examples across different environments (home, school, community)
✔ Information about support needs, not just diagnosis
✔ Input from relevant professionals where available
Common Misunderstandings
- Diagnosis alone does not determine eligibility
- Support levels (e.g. Level 1, 2, or 3) are not used in isolation to decide access
- Not all children with autism will meet NDIS access criteria
- Therapy reports can help, but are not always required
How Allied Health May Support Families
Allied health professionals may assist by:
Allied health professionals may assist by:
- Providing reports that describe functional impact
- Supporting families to understand their child’s needs
- Helping identify appropriate supports over time
Explore Support Options for Your Child
At Belong Health, we support children and families across Perth, Mandurah, and regional Western Australia.
These pages outline how different supports can help with communication, daily routines, emotional regulation, and development.
Our team includes:
We work with families:
At Belong Health, we support children and families across Perth, Mandurah, and regional Western Australia.
These pages outline how different supports can help with communication, daily routines, emotional regulation, and development.
Our team includes:
- Paediatric Occupational Therapy (OT)
- Paediatric Speech Pathology (SP)
- Psychology Assessments
- Paediatric Counselling
- Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)
We work with families:
- Exploring next steps after diagnosis
- Preparing for or navigating the NDIS
- Accessing supports in the community
You Don’t Have to Work This Out Alone
If you’re trying to understand what’s going on for your child, it’s okay to ask for help.
At Belong Health, we support families across Perth and Mandurah in understanding their child’s development and next steps.
If you’re trying to understand what’s going on for your child, it’s okay to ask for help.
At Belong Health, we support families across Perth and Mandurah in understanding their child’s development and next steps.
Not Sure What to Do Next?
If you're unsure where to start, it can help to talk things through.
We offer a free 20-minute meet & greet where you can:
Book a free 20-minute call with our team
Or contact us to talk through your situation
Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here
If you're unsure where to start, it can help to talk things through.
We offer a free 20-minute meet & greet where you can:
- Ask general questions about support options
- Understand what services may be helpful
- Explore possible next steps
Book a free 20-minute call with our team
Or contact us to talk through your situation
Our team is here to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us an email here
Your Support Matters
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Your feedback helps us continue to provide support and information that benefits our community.
Stay updated with our latest resources and tips by liking us on Facebook!
If you find these resources helpful, please support us in creating more valuable content by leaving a review on Facebook and Google.
Your feedback helps us continue to provide support and information that benefits our community.
Stay updated with our latest resources and tips by liking us on Facebook!
Have a question? or need more information
Our friendly team are happy to help call us on 08 9586 3934 or send us a message
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Autism Level 2 automatically qualify for the NDIS?
No. Eligibility is based on how a child’s disability impacts their daily functioning and need for support, not diagnosis or level alone.
Do I need therapy reports to apply?
Not always. Existing reports and information may be sufficient if they clearly describe functional impact.
How long does the application process take?
Timeframes vary, but decisions are often made within several weeks depending on the information provided.
What if I’m unsure whether to apply?
You may wish to speak with a health professional or NDIS partner to better understand your situation before applying.
Does Autism Level 2 automatically qualify for the NDIS?
No. Eligibility is based on how a child’s disability impacts their daily functioning and need for support, not diagnosis or level alone.
Do I need therapy reports to apply?
Not always. Existing reports and information may be sufficient if they clearly describe functional impact.
How long does the application process take?
Timeframes vary, but decisions are often made within several weeks depending on the information provided.
What if I’m unsure whether to apply?
You may wish to speak with a health professional or NDIS partner to better understand your situation before applying.
13 Littleton st, Falcon |
Phone: 08 9586 3934 |
EMAIL US |
OFFICE HOURS: MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30am - 4:30pm
BELONG HEALTH'S Paediatric Occupational Therapy SERVICES FOR Perth region
A: Alexander Heights, Alfred Cove, Applecross, Applecross North, Ardross, Armadale, Ascot, Ashby, Ashfield, Attadale, Atwell, Aubin Grove, Aveley
B: Balcatta, Balga, Ballajura, Banjup, Banksia Grove, Baskerville, Bassendean, Bateman, Bayswater, Beaconsfield, Beckenham, Bedford, Bedfordale, Beechboro, Beeliar, Beldon, Belhus, Bellevue, Belmont, Bennett Springs, Bentley, Bibra Lake, Bicton, Booragoon, Boya, Brabham, Brentwood, Brigadoon, Broadway Nedlands, Brookdale, Bull Creek, Burns Beach, Burswood, Bushmead, Butler
C: Canning Vale, Cannington, Carabooda, Carine, Carlisle, Carramar, Caversham, Champion Lakes, Churchlands, City Beach, Claremont, Clarkson, Cloverdale, Cockburn Central, Como, Connolly, Coogee, Coolbellup, Coolbinia, Cottesloe, Craigie, Crawley, Currambine
D: Daglish, Dalkeith, Darch, Darlington, Dayton, Dianella, Dog Swamp, Doubleview, Duncraig
E: East Cannington, East Fremantle, East Perth, East Victoria Park, Eden Hill, Edgewater, Ellenbrook, Embleton
F: Ferndale, Floreat, Forrestdale, Forrestfield, Fremantle
G: Gidgegannup, Girrawheen, Glen Forrest, Glendalough, Glengarry, Gnangara, Gosnells, Greenmount, Greenwood, Guildford, Gwelup
H: Hamersley, Hamilton Hill, Hammond Park, Harrisdale, Haynes, Hazelmere, Heathridge, Helena Valley, Henderson, Henley Brook, Herdsman, Herne Hill, High Wycombe, Highgate, Hilbert, Hillarys, Hilton, Hocking, Hovea, Huntingdale
I: Iluka, Inglewood, Innaloo, Jandabup, Jandakot, Jane Brook, Jindalee, Jolimont, Joondalup, Joondanna
K: Kallaroo, Karawara, Kardinya, Karragullen, Karrakatta, Karrinyup, Kelmscott, Kensington, Kenwick, Kewdale, Kiara, Kings Park, Kingsley, Kingsway, Kinross, Koondoola, Koongamia
L: Landsdale, Langford, Lathlain, Leederville, Leeming, Lexia, Lockridge, Lynwood
M: Maddington, Madeley, Mahogany Creek, Maida Vale, Malaga, Manning, Marangaroo, Mariginiup, Marmion, Martin, Maylands, Melaleuca, Melville, Menora, Merriwa, Middle Swan, Midland, Midvale, Millendon, Mindarie, Mirrabooka, Morangup, Morley, Mosman Park, Mount Claremont, Mount Hawthorn, Mount Lawley, Mount Nasura, Mount Pleasant, Mount Richon, Mullaloo, Munster, Murdoch, Myaree
N: Nedlands, Neerabup, Nollamara, Noranda, North Beach, North Coogee, North Fremantle, North Lake, North Perth, Northbridge, Nowergup
O: O'connor, Ocean Reef, Orange Grove, Osborne Park
P: Padbury, Palmyra, Parkerville, Parkwood, Pearsall, Peppermint Grove, Perth, Piara Waters, Pinjar, Queens Park, Quinns Rocks
R: Red Hill, Redcliffe, Ridgewood, Riverton, Rivervale, Roleystone, Rossmoyne, Rottnest Island
S: Salter Point, Samson, Sawyers Valley, Scarborough, Seville Grove, Shelley, Shenton Park, Sinagra, Sorrento, South Fremantle, South Guildford, South Lake, South Perth, Southern River, Spearwood, St James, Stirling, Stoneville, Stratton, Subiaco, Subiaco East, Success, Swan View, Swanbourne
T: Tamala Park, Tapping, The Vines, Thornlie, Treeby, Trigg, Tuart Hill
U: Upper Swan
V: Victoria Park
W: Wangara, Wanneroo, Warwick, Waterford, Watermans Bay, Wattle Grove, Wattleup, Welshpool, Wembley, Wembley Downs, West Leederville, West Perth, West Swan, Westfield, Westminster, White Gum Valley, Whiteman, Willagee, Willetton, Wilson, Winthrop, Woodbridge, Woodlands, Woodvale, Wungong
Y: Yangebup, Yokine
B: Balcatta, Balga, Ballajura, Banjup, Banksia Grove, Baskerville, Bassendean, Bateman, Bayswater, Beaconsfield, Beckenham, Bedford, Bedfordale, Beechboro, Beeliar, Beldon, Belhus, Bellevue, Belmont, Bennett Springs, Bentley, Bibra Lake, Bicton, Booragoon, Boya, Brabham, Brentwood, Brigadoon, Broadway Nedlands, Brookdale, Bull Creek, Burns Beach, Burswood, Bushmead, Butler
C: Canning Vale, Cannington, Carabooda, Carine, Carlisle, Carramar, Caversham, Champion Lakes, Churchlands, City Beach, Claremont, Clarkson, Cloverdale, Cockburn Central, Como, Connolly, Coogee, Coolbellup, Coolbinia, Cottesloe, Craigie, Crawley, Currambine
D: Daglish, Dalkeith, Darch, Darlington, Dayton, Dianella, Dog Swamp, Doubleview, Duncraig
E: East Cannington, East Fremantle, East Perth, East Victoria Park, Eden Hill, Edgewater, Ellenbrook, Embleton
F: Ferndale, Floreat, Forrestdale, Forrestfield, Fremantle
G: Gidgegannup, Girrawheen, Glen Forrest, Glendalough, Glengarry, Gnangara, Gosnells, Greenmount, Greenwood, Guildford, Gwelup
H: Hamersley, Hamilton Hill, Hammond Park, Harrisdale, Haynes, Hazelmere, Heathridge, Helena Valley, Henderson, Henley Brook, Herdsman, Herne Hill, High Wycombe, Highgate, Hilbert, Hillarys, Hilton, Hocking, Hovea, Huntingdale
I: Iluka, Inglewood, Innaloo, Jandabup, Jandakot, Jane Brook, Jindalee, Jolimont, Joondalup, Joondanna
K: Kallaroo, Karawara, Kardinya, Karragullen, Karrakatta, Karrinyup, Kelmscott, Kensington, Kenwick, Kewdale, Kiara, Kings Park, Kingsley, Kingsway, Kinross, Koondoola, Koongamia
L: Landsdale, Langford, Lathlain, Leederville, Leeming, Lexia, Lockridge, Lynwood
M: Maddington, Madeley, Mahogany Creek, Maida Vale, Malaga, Manning, Marangaroo, Mariginiup, Marmion, Martin, Maylands, Melaleuca, Melville, Menora, Merriwa, Middle Swan, Midland, Midvale, Millendon, Mindarie, Mirrabooka, Morangup, Morley, Mosman Park, Mount Claremont, Mount Hawthorn, Mount Lawley, Mount Nasura, Mount Pleasant, Mount Richon, Mullaloo, Munster, Murdoch, Myaree
N: Nedlands, Neerabup, Nollamara, Noranda, North Beach, North Coogee, North Fremantle, North Lake, North Perth, Northbridge, Nowergup
O: O'connor, Ocean Reef, Orange Grove, Osborne Park
P: Padbury, Palmyra, Parkerville, Parkwood, Pearsall, Peppermint Grove, Perth, Piara Waters, Pinjar, Queens Park, Quinns Rocks
R: Red Hill, Redcliffe, Ridgewood, Riverton, Rivervale, Roleystone, Rossmoyne, Rottnest Island
S: Salter Point, Samson, Sawyers Valley, Scarborough, Seville Grove, Shelley, Shenton Park, Sinagra, Sorrento, South Fremantle, South Guildford, South Lake, South Perth, Southern River, Spearwood, St James, Stirling, Stoneville, Stratton, Subiaco, Subiaco East, Success, Swan View, Swanbourne
T: Tamala Park, Tapping, The Vines, Thornlie, Treeby, Trigg, Tuart Hill
U: Upper Swan
V: Victoria Park
W: Wangara, Wanneroo, Warwick, Waterford, Watermans Bay, Wattle Grove, Wattleup, Welshpool, Wembley, Wembley Downs, West Leederville, West Perth, West Swan, Westfield, Westminster, White Gum Valley, Whiteman, Willagee, Willetton, Wilson, Winthrop, Woodbridge, Woodlands, Woodvale, Wungong
Y: Yangebup, Yokine
