What is the difference between NDIA and NDIS?

If you’ve been looking into disability funding, you may have heard two commonly used acronyms: NDIA and NDIS. It can be hard to keep on top of all these acronyms and understand what they mean.

In this article, we will outline what each acronym means and explain the differences between them.

NDIA and NDIS: what do they mean?

While the NDIA and NDIS acronyms sound similar, their meanings are distinctly different. NDIS, which stands for National Disability Insurance Scheme, is a scheme run by the Australian government to provide funding for Australians living with disabilities.

NDIA, on the other hand, stands for National Disability Insurance Agency. In short, the NDIA manages the NDIS. Funded by the Department of Social Services, and appointed by the Australian government, the NDIA is responsible for administering all NDIS funding.

NDIA: National Disability Insurance Agency

People who work for NDIA assist people seeking disability support.

Along with administering funding, the NDIA also provides information about how the NDIS works, who is eligible, and how to apply for the scheme.

The NDIA can also offer referrals, individualised plans, funded supports, and links to other helpful services and activities for people living with disabilities.

Essentially, the NDIA acts as a branch between service providers and people in need of support.

Across Australia, the NDIA partners with State and Territory governments and community organisations to deliver NDIS support and funding.

NDIS: National Disability Insurance Scheme

The NDIS is a national disability funding scheme managed by the NDIA. Through the NDIS, people living with permanent and significant disabilities can access specialised funding.

The goal of the NDIS is to provide real flexibility and choice for people living with a disability. Via the scheme, participants can access individualised funding to assist themselves, their families, and their carers.

Individuals who meet the NDIS eligibility criteria will receive lifelong support based on a plan that describes the individual’s goals, needs, and aspirations.

NDIS funding aims to help these individuals achieve their set goals. The NDIS recognises that every individual has different needs and ambitions, creating customised plans to suit these needs.

The NDIS is described as an “insurance” scheme because it provides lifetime support—not “as needed” support, such as in welfare schemes.