Understanding the NDIS · Applying to the NDIS

Sent your NDIS access application and wondering what happens next? Here is how to check it was received, respond to requests, understand the decision timeframe and plan your next step.

Reviewed 15 October 2026 · General information for applicants, families and supporters

How do I check that the NDIA received my application?

Start by checking how you submitted it. If an NDIS partner submitted the application for you, ask them to confirm the date it was sent and whether all requested evidence was included. If you submitted it through the Service Hub, by post or in person, keep the confirmation, tracking details or receipt you were given.

Make one folder for your application. Save the forms, reports, letters, upload confirmations and any messages from the NDIA. Write down the date each item was sent and keep a copy of anything you provide later. This gives you a clear record if the NDIA asks for information again or you need to follow up.

What should I do if the NDIA asks for more information?

Read the request carefully and identify exactly what is missing, who needs to provide it and the date the NDIA wants it by. If anything is unclear, contact the NDIS partner or NDIA using the details in the letter. Ask whether the request relates to age, residence, disability, functional impact or another part of the access decision.

Where evidence is requested, speak with a treating health professional who knows your disability and can explain how it affects everyday activities. Useful evidence is personal and specific: it describes the impairment, its likely duration, the treatments tried or considered, and the functional impact in relevant areas of life. A diagnosis or a list of appointments alone may not explain the support needs the NDIA has to assess.

• Send only information that responds to the request, and include the applicant’s identifying details as instructed.
• Keep copies of reports and proof of delivery.
• If you cannot meet the requested date, contact the NDIA before it passes and ask what options are available.
• Do not pay for a new assessment until you understand what information is missing and whether the NDIA needs that particular report.

NDIA evidence guidance says evidence should come from an appropriate treating health professional, be recent and explain the disability and its effects. Requirements can vary, so check the current request and guidance for your circumstances.

How long does an NDIS access decision take?

The NDIA’s current How to apply page says it will tell you whether you are eligible within 90 days after your application and all supporting evidence have been submitted. It also explains that the decision concerns the disability or early-intervention requirements and that an impairment notice is provided if you become a participant.

Record the date the complete application and evidence were submitted, the decision due date stated by the NDIA and any date you provided extra documents. If the due date passes without an update, contact the NDIA or your NDIS partner with your reference details and ask whether anything is outstanding.

What does the NDIS access decision tell me?

The NDIA will send you a letter explaining whether you meet the access requirements. Read the whole letter, including the reasons, any impairment information and what to do next. If the letter says information is missing or does not explain the outcome, contact the NDIA and ask for clarification.

What happens if my NDIS application is approved?

Approval means you have met the NDIS access requirements; it does not mean every support you request will automatically be funded. The next stage is planning. Prepare to describe what matters to you, the tasks you find difficult because of your disability, the assistance you already receive and the changes you would like support to help you make.

Bring recent reports and practical examples from everyday life. Explain how often a task is difficult, what help is required and what happens without that help. Keep your examples focused on your disability-related support needs and goals. Our guide to preparing for an NDIS planning meeting can help you organise this information.

What can I do if my NDIS access application is declined?

You can contact the NDIA to ask why the decision was made. If you still disagree, many access decisions can be reviewed. The NDIA says you generally have three months from the day you receive the decision to ask for an internal review. Check the decision letter and the current review instructions because deadlines and review rights matter.

When requesting a review, explain which part of the decision you think is wrong and why. Point to evidence already provided and identify any relevant new evidence. An internal review is completed by a different NDIA staff member. If you disagree with that outcome, the NDIA’s review guide explains how to seek external review through the Administrative Review Tribunal and the relevant time limit.

Read our separate guide, NDIS eligibility declined: review steps and deadlines, for a focused review checklist. You can also ask an advocate or other trusted person to help you understand the letter and prepare your response.

What should I keep track of after applying?

• The date you submitted the application and all supporting evidence.
• How it was submitted and any confirmation or tracking reference.
• NDIA contact details, letters and the decision due date stated in your correspondence.
• Every request for information, the due date and what you sent in reply.
• Copies of health-professional reports and proof that they were provided.
• The date you receive the access decision and any review deadline stated in the letter.

Common questions after applying to the NDIS

Official sources and further reading

• NDIA: How to apply (current page states a decision within 90 days after the application and supporting evidence are submitted; page current 27 August 2026).
• NDIA: How to gather evidence (published decision timing differs; page current 29 May 2026).
• NDIA: Guide to decision reviews (internal review and external review steps).
• NDIA: Request information about an application or access decision.

Reviewed 15 October 2026. NDIA webpages can change. This guide is general information and cannot determine whether an individual meets the access requirements.