Autism assessments and NDIS funding

*Please note that this information is current as of February 2025. 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. Over the years, I have learnt from some lovely NDIS advocates on how to write a report that is more likely to be accepted.

Please note, though, that if you are planning on applying for NDIS funding, and would like me to write a report for you, 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 actually! https://www.ndis.gov.au/

I can write a report for NDIS purposes if we find that your 'functional impacts' are significant. By 'functional impacts', we're referring to the six 'life domains': mobility, communication, social interaction, self-management, learning and self-care. 

Please note that I do not produce for you a full Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA), but I look at your functional impacts due to being autistic from a psychological perspective only. That's why I only charge $750, and not $2000-$3000 that an OT would charge for a full FCA.

Some people will also submit a letter from their psychiatrist AND a letter from their loved one, or a personal impact statement. This is in addition to my report. Some might just submit my report and a personal impact statement- the choice is yours :)

My role is to provide data that someone has a permanent impairment that results in substantially reduced functional capacity in one or more of the following 6 domains (as listed above). I know! I hate their wording 'permanent' (??) and 'impairment' (not the most affirming, but it's the current system).

In a report, my job is to:

1. State the diagnosis (i.e. nature of the impairment resulting in disability) and likely permanence

2. Outline the functional impact and the types of support required.

It's important that my report also includes:

• your treatment journey to date (i.e. list past and current treatment)

• future treatment options and the likely response to them should also be explained.

The report needs to 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.

I am unable to include information in your report that is inaccurate, and will only ask the NDIA for funding that is in line with your functional impacts.

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. Thanks for your understanding :)

Please note that not everyone who is autistic has significant enough functional impacts to warrant applying for the NDIS. Autism is a disability, but it presents in different ways.

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.