Autism assessments and NDIS funding

*Please note that this information is current as of March 2026. Information in this space can change, so please stay up-to-date with current information by referring to the NDIA website:  https://www.ndis.gov.au/

The NDIS can offer such wonderful supports, and I am very grateful that both of my children are on the NDIS (I don't like the word 'participants'). Over the years, I have learnt from amazing NDIS advocates on how to write a report that is more likely to be accepted. It's also lucky that I am an endorsed Clinical Psychologist, and that the NDIS are more likely to accept a report from clin psychs (yay for me).

Please also do your own research on what constitutes a disability according to the NDIA, the current guidelines, and so on. Their website is quite user friendly. https://www.ndis.gov.au/

The standard diagnostic report I provide can be submitted to the NDIS as supporting evidence. I recommend speaking with your NDIS Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to clarify additional required documentation. 

Many people find it helpful to include a Personal Impact Statement alongside the diagnostic report. This allows you to describe your lived experience in your own words and outline how your disability affects your day-to-day functioning. Here is a helpful guide on how to structure one: https://myplanmanager.com.au/state-your-case-how-to-write-impactful-lived-experience-and-carer-statements/

This Facebook group about NDIS for autistic folk can be helpful as well: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1675693722642388

I also have a spreadsheet template to help you think through and articulate NDIS goals. You’re very welcome to edit and tailor this example so it reflects your own priorities and circumstances.

Normally, your standard diagnostic report should be sufficient. The standard diagnostic report will already include information on how being autistic impacts you/ challenges you, and a WHODAS. At the time of booking, please ensure you flag that the report is also to be used for the NDIS.

Some clients also request an additional document from me called an 'NDIS Access Report'. This is a brief functional capacity assessment from a psychological perspective. It includes detailed psychological functional impacts. By 'functional impacts', we're referring to the six 'life domains': mobility, communication, social interaction, self-management, learning and self-care. In this type of report (ie- NDIS Access Report), it also includes your treatment journey to date (i.e. list past and current treatment) and future treatment options and the likely response to them should also be explained. The NDIS Access Report also must state in simple terms:

• what you can not do

• how this impacts your day-to-day function, employment/study/social impact

• what supports are already being received (from family/carers, services and community)

• the type and intensity/frequency of supports needed

• how supports will build functional capacity

• how these supports will improve social and economic participation

Accessing NDIS support involves a complex evaluation of your daily functioning abilities and circumstances. These are factors that are outside our scope of influence.

Here is a table taken directly from the NDIS website. It shows example areas of support required.

Once you have a report from me and from your other practitioners and carer, you can then request access request by:

1. Contacting your local area coordinator or

2. Calling 1800 800 110 or

3. Visiting your local NDIS office

4. Completing the 'Access Request Form' and emailing it to enquiries@ndis.gov.au along with any supporting information.

   
   

Please note that once I have written your report, I am unable to provide other help on filling out forms, or approaching the NDIS. There are a number of wonderful advocates who work in this space who can provide support for you, and who have much more knowledge and experience that I do in this space. So don't worry- you will be able to get support through the process!

If the NDIA requires additional information, I need to charge for my time to administer extra assessments, or make changes. This is rare though.

Please note that not everyone who is autistic has significant enough functional impacts to warrant applying for the NDIS.

It's essential that you conduct your own thorough research into the NDIS application process and requirements, as these can change over time. While I can provide general guidance, you are responsible for your own due diligence in understanding eligibility criteria, gathering necessary documentation, and meeting all requirements for your specific situation. I strongly recommend consulting official NDIS resources and seeking professional advice specific to your circumstances. Please don't let any of this scare you- know your rights, and what financial support you are entitled to! It can be life changing to finally get supports in place so that you can flourish.