National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

Resources and links to help you explore NDIS access and support for arthritis.

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Note, this information is correct at time of publication, but we recognise that significant planned changes to the NDIS were announced in the Federal Budget in May 2026. We will update this information when the changes are implemented

What is the NDIS?

The NDIS provides funding to eligible Australians with disability to support greater independence, more time with family and friends, access to new skills, employment or volunteering, and an improved quality of life.

The NDIS also connects anyone with disability to services in their community – including doctors, community groups, sporting clubs, support groups, libraries and schools – and provides information about supports offered by each state and territory government.

The NDIS now supports over 610,000 Australians with disability to access the services and supports they need.

The Commonwealth Government has recently announced planned changes to the NDIS. For more information, see Securing the NDIS for future generations

Can people with arthritis access the NDIS?

Yes, some people living with arthritis may be eligible for the NDIS, depending on how their condition affects their daily life.

Rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile arthritis are currently recognised under the NDIS as conditions likely to result in permanent impairment (List B conditions). This means they are acknowledged as permanent conditions, but because arthritis affects people differently, individual functional capacity will be assessed to determine eligibility and the level of support needed. However recent announcements from the government signal a move away from diagnosis based access.

Other forms of arthritis – including osteoarthritis, axial spondyloarthritis (ankylosing spondylitis), psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis – are not listed by name, but people with these conditions can still apply if they meet the eligibility criteria. Each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis, based on how the condition affects daily function rather than the diagnosis alone.

Important: the NDIS focuses on the functional impact of your condition, not just your diagnosis. What matters is how your arthritis affects your ability to carry out daily activities, care for yourself, and participate in your community.

A note on flares

Arthritis is not a static condition. Many people experience unpredictable flares – periods of severe pain, inflammation and reduced mobility that can significantly affect function, even if the condition is better managed at other times. If you experience flares that substantially affect your daily life and independence, this is relevant to your NDIS application. Speak with your rheumatologist or GP about documenting the impact of flares as part of your evidence.

Am I eligible?

To access the NDIS you need to meet three main requirements:

Age: you must be aged between 0 and 64 years at the time of application. People aged 65 and over may be eligible for support through the aged care system instead.

Residency: you must be an Australian citizen, hold a permanent visa, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa, and live in Australia.

Disability: you must have a permanent impairment that substantially affects your ability to participate in everyday activities, and demonstrate that you require support, use specialised equipment, or that early intervention now could reduce your future support needs.

Check your eligibility on the NDIS website →

What supports can be funded?

If you are eligible, an NDIS plan can fund a range of supports related to your arthritis, which may include:

Personal care – help with bathing, dressing, and grooming

Assistance with household tasks such as cleaning, cooking, and laundry

Therapies including occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and hydrotherapy

Aids and equipment to support mobility and independence at home

Home modifications

Transport assistance

Community access and social participation.

The types and level of support funded will depend on your individual goals and needs as outlined in your NDIS plan.

How do I apply?

Contact your local NDIS Office for support to connect with local disability services or to begin your application. Your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) can help you navigate the entire process from start to finish.

You can also phone the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or apply online.

Tip: start gathering evidence before you apply. Detailed reports from your rheumatologist, GP, occupational therapist, or other treating clinicians about how your arthritis affects your daily function will strengthen your application.

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