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If we decided a child met the early intervention requirements for their developmental delay, they’re usually no longer eligible after they turn 6.
This is because they will no longer meet the eligibility criteria under developmental delay. To remain an NDIS participant after they turn 6, the child will need to have an impairment that’s likely to be permanent. They will also need to meet either the disability requirements or the early intervention requirements.
We’ll talk to families or carers before a child turns 6 and explain what information we need to decide if the child is still eligible.
Learn more about the disability requirements and the early intervention requirements.
Example
Sarah is 6 years old. Sarah was eligible for the NDIS under the early intervention requirements for developmental delay and has been receiving early childhood intervention supports since age 4.
At age 4, Sarah’s speech was unclear. Her parents and other children couldn’t understand her and Sarah found it hard to manage her frustration. At age 5, Sarah’s early childhood partner explained to her parents that Sarah would most likely leave the NDIS after she turns 6.
By age 6, Sarah had achieved many of the goals her parents had set for her, including improved speech, communication, social and cognitive skills. Sarah’s therapy provider reports that she no longer needs early childhood intervention supports.
Sarah’s early childhood partner talks to her parents about the NDIS early intervention eligibility requirements and explains that Sarah no longer needs NDIS supports. Sarah leaves the NDIS.
Sarah can still get mainstream and community supports. For example, her teacher can help set up the supports she needs at school. Sarah also joins a gymnastic and dance class.
If Sarah’s situation changes and she needs NDIS supports in the future, her parents can apply for the NDIS again.
Do you still meet the disability requirements?
If you were eligible under the disability requirements, it’s likely you’ll need the NDIS for a long time. This means you won’t have to prove your disability every time we change your plan.
If at any time your disability support needs or circumstances change, we may need to check your supports or NDIS eligibility. We’ll talk with you if this happens.