Alibraryforyourfamily’sjourney.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding and support for children with developmental delays or conditions — helping them build skills, increase independence, and participate in everyday life.

For younger children (typically under 9 years), support is accessed through the early childhood approach. This pathway focuses on early intervention — providing practical strategies, therapy supports, and guidance for families as soon as concerns arise. A formal diagnosis is not always required, and supports can often begin sooner, which is key during the early years of development.

As children grow older or if their needs are more complex, they may transition to the full NDIS scheme. This involves an individualised plan based on a child’s specific goals and support needs, which may include therapies, assistive technology, and support to participate in home, school, and community life. A formal diagnosis of an eligible disability or condition is usually required.

Getting started can feel confusing, but the first step is making an access request to the NDIS. This usually involves providing information about your child’s development and how their developmental delays or conditions impact everyday functioning. Reports from health professionals (such as paediatricians or therapists) can help support your application, but are not always necessary.

While the application process can take time, accessing the NDIS can open the door to tailored supports that help your child reach their full potential and support your family along the way.

Medicare offers a range of programs that support children with developmental differences and conditions to access allied health services such as speech pathology, occupational therapy, and psychology. These programs can help reduce the cost of therapy and make it easier for families to access early and ongoing support.

Some of the Medicare programs that can be used for allied health services are the Chronic Condition Management (CCM) Plan; Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders & Eligible Disabilities (previously called the Helping Children with Autism Program); Better Access (to Mental Health Care initiative); and Follow-up Allied Health Services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.

Getting started usually involves visiting your GP, paediatrician, or specialist to discuss your concerns and determine which Medicare program is most appropriate. They can guide you through the referral process and help ensure your child can access the supports they need.

Note: Medicare rebates usually do not cover the full cost of allied health services.

The Medicare Safety Net is designed to help families manage the cost of ongoing healthcare — especially when children require regular appointments under a Medicare-funded plan.

If your child is accessing services through a Medicare-funded plan (such as sessions with allied health professionals), out-of-pocket costs can add up quickly. The Medicare Safety Net provides additional financial support once you reach a certain annual threshold in out-of-pocket expenses. After this threshold is met, Medicare will cover a higher portion of the cost for eligible services for the rest of the calendar year.

Families can also register as a family for Medicare Safety Net purposes, which means the combined medical expenses of all family members count toward reaching the threshold sooner — helping you access higher rebates more quickly.

If your child is attending regular therapy sessions, it is worth keeping track of your out-of-pocket costs and ensuring you are registered correctly with Medicare. This can make a meaningful difference in reducing the financial pressure of ongoing care and support.