NDIS Glossary

Key terms and definitions for navigating the NDIS and disability services sector

A

AAT
Administrative Appeals Tribunal - An independent body that reviews government decisions, including NDIS decisions.
Access Request
The formal application to become an NDIS participant. Must demonstrate permanent and significant disability that affects daily life.
Related terms: Eligibility, LAC
Agency-Managed
When the NDIA manages NDIS funding and pays providers directly. Participants can only use registered providers.
Related terms: Plan-Managed, Self-Managed
AT
Assistive Technology - Equipment, devices, or systems that help people with disability perform tasks they might otherwise be unable to do.

C

Capacity Building
NDIS supports that help build independence and skills. Includes therapy, training, and support coordination.
Capital Supports
One-off purchases of higher-cost assistive technology, equipment modifications, or Specialist Disability Accommodation.
Related terms: AT, SDA, Home Modifications
Choice and Control
The fundamental NDIS principle that participants should have choice in their supports and control over their lives.
Core Supports
Flexible funding for everyday disability supports including personal care, community access, and consumables.

D

DSX
Disability Services Exchange - A member-led cooperative representing ethical NDIS providers, participants, and support workers.
Related terms: Provider, Cooperative

E

ECEI
Early Childhood Early Intervention - NDIS support approach for children under 9 with developmental delay or disability.

L

LAC
Local Area Coordinator - Partner organizations that help people access the NDIS and connect with mainstream and community supports.

N

NDIA
National Disability Insurance Agency - The government agency responsible for implementing and managing the NDIS.
Related terms: NDIS, Scheme
NDIS
National Disability Insurance Scheme - Australia's national scheme providing support to people with permanent and significant disability.
Related terms: NDIA, Participant
NDIS Commission
NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission - The independent regulator ensuring quality and safety of NDIS supports and services.

P

PBS
Positive Behaviour Support - Evidence-based strategies to address behaviours of concern while improving quality of life.
Plan Manager
A provider that manages NDIS funding on behalf of participants, paying invoices and handling financial reporting.
Plan-Managed
When a Plan Manager handles NDIS funds, allowing use of both registered and unregistered providers while managing compliance.
Provider
An individual or organization delivering supports and services to NDIS participants. May be registered or unregistered.

R

Reasonable and Necessary
The key criteria for NDIS funding. Supports must be related to disability, value for money, and help achieve goals.
Related terms: NDIS Plan, Funding
Registered Provider
A provider approved by the NDIS Commission to deliver supports. Must meet quality and safeguard requirements.
Restrictive Practices
Interventions that restrict rights or freedom of movement. Require authorization and should be minimized.
Related terms: PBS, Human Rights

S

S48 Review
Section 48 of NDIS Act - Unscheduled plan review triggered by significant change in circumstances or needs.
SDA
Specialist Disability Accommodation - Housing designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs.
Related terms: SIL, Housing
Self-Managed
When participants or nominees directly manage NDIS funding. Maximum flexibility but requires managing compliance.
Service Agreement
Written agreement between participant and provider outlining services, costs, responsibilities, and terms.
SIL
Supported Independent Living - 24/7 support for daily tasks in shared living arrangements.
Related terms: SDA, Daily Living
Support Coordinator
A capacity building support that helps participants understand and use their NDIS plan effectively.
Related terms: LAC, Capacity Building
Support Worker
Direct care staff providing personal care, community access, and other supports to participants.
Related terms: Provider, Direct Support

T

Thin Markets
Geographic areas or service types with limited provider availability, affecting participant choice.