Exploring NDIS Support for Young Children (Ages 0–9)

Understanding the process and how assessments can help

If you’re noticing differences in your child’s development, communication, play, or regulation, you may be wondering what supports are available—and whether the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) might be one of them. This short guide offers an introduction to how the NDIS works for young children, what the application process involves, and how a developmental or functional needs assessment can support your family.

What is the NDIS Early Childhood Approach?

For children under 9, the NDIS offers an Early Childhood Approach designed to provide timely support—without needing a diagnosis. This means you may be able to access help based on your child’s functional needs, even if you’re still figuring out what those needs are.

The focus is on helping your child develop the skills they need for everyday life—things like communication, sensory regulation, social connection, play, movement, and participation in kinder or childcare.

What Kind of Support Can the NDIS Offer?

Each child is different, but NDIS plans may include:

• Speech therapy or occupational therapy

• Psychology or play-based therapeutic supports

• A Key Worker or early intervention team

• Support with routines, transitions, and regulation

• Sensory or communication aids

• Parent coaching or guidance

The goal is to wrap around the child and family, building capacity in ways that are respectful, relational, and developmentally attuned.

What Does the Application Involve?

For most families, the process includes:

1. Talking to an Early Childhood Partner – You can find these through the NDIS website. They help guide you through the process and determine whether your child may be eligible.

2. Sharing information about your child’s development and needs – This might include stories, observations, reports from therapists, or assessments.

3. Providing supporting documents – This is where a developmental assessment can be helpful.

How Can an Assessment Help?

A Developmental & Functional Needs Assessment can help paint a fuller picture of your child’s needs—without pathologizing or labelling. It can support an NDIS application by:

• Describing your child’s communication, regulation, social engagement, and play

• Identifying areas where support may be helpful

• Including adaptive functioning tools (like the Vineland-3 or ABAS-3) that show how your child is going day-to-day

• Providing clear, supportive recommendations for therapy or other services

  
  

If your child already has a diagnosis (like autism or global developmental delay), this can also be included—but it’s not always essential at this age.

A Note for Caregivers

This process can feel big, especially if you’re still making sense of what your child needs. Please know that seeking support is not about labelling—it’s about opening doors to help, connection, and growth.

If you’re not sure where to start or what kind of assessment is right for your child, you’re always welcome to get in touch for a free pre-referral phone call to talk things through.

Additional Resources

• NDIS Early Childhood Approach – Overview

• Raising Children Network – NDIS and Young Children

• Association for Children with Disability (ACD) – NDIS Family Supports