A well-thought-out NDIS plan can do so much more than just cover therapy or support hours. It can open doors and build confidence. It can reduce stress for your family and help create real pathways toward independence, routine, and connection.
Whether you’re preparing for your first planning meeting or reviewing an existing plan, this guide will show you exactly what to include in an NDIS plan for autism.
Why Autism Support Through the NDIS Is So Important
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) sits among the most commonly supported disabilities under the NDIS. Over 30% of current participants live with autism. But no two people experience autism the same way. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your NDIS plan is tailored and detailed. And includes the right mix of supports under each funding category.
What to Include in an NDIS Plan for Autism
The NDIS organises funding into three main categories: Core Supports, Capacity Building, and Capital Supports. Each category offers funding for different types of support. Here’s how they apply to autism.
Core Supports for Autism
Core Supports help NDIS participants with autism manage daily life, build routines, and engage with their community in meaningful ways. Many people with autism benefit from consistent, structured support in these areas.
You can include funding for support workers who assist with personal care, morning and evening routines, or navigating transitions throughout the day. Community access is also key. That could mean attending a local event, visiting the library, or participating in group activities with the help of a support person.
Transport funding can support travel to school, therapy appointments, or community programs. Especially when public transport isn’t a practical option due to sensory sensitivities or safety concerns. You can also include consumables that support regulation and communication, like sensory toys, visual schedules, noise-cancelling headphones, or incontinence supplies where needed.
Capacity Building Supports for Autism
Capacity Building supports focus on building the participant’s skills and confidence across communication, behaviour, emotional regulation, and social interaction. These supports form the foundation for long-term progress.
What to include:
- Speech therapy for communication, social skills, or AAC device use
- Occupational therapy for sensory processing, fine motor skills, or emotional regulation
- Psychology or behaviour therapy for anxiety, emotional regulation, or behavioural strategies
- Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) with a behaviour support plan
- Social skills programs and group learning sessions
- Parent training to support your child with consistency at home
- Support Coordination to help you connect with services and manage your plan
- Life transition planning, especially for teens or adults preparing for employment or housing
Capital Supports for Autism
Capital Supports cover more expensive or specialised items that assist with communication, learning, and sensory regulation.
If an NDIS participant uses or benefits from a communication device, like an iPad with AAC software, the NDIS may fund it under Capital Supports. This relies on a therapist recommending it. Many autistic individuals also benefit from sensory equipment, such as pressure vests, sensory swings, noise-reducing headphones, or calming tents. These tools help regulate the nervous system and improve focus or comfort in both home and learning environments.
Goals to Include in an Autism NDIS Plan
NDIS planners use your goals to decide what supports to fund. When writing goals, focus on how they relate to your (or your child’s life with autism. For example, you might want to improve emotional regulation, feel more confident in social situations, or become more independent with routines. You can also set goals around communication, like using visuals or an AAC device, or participation in community or learning environments. If you’re a parent or carer, goals about building your capacity to support your child can help justify therapies and training in your plan.
Early Childhood Supports (Ages 0–6)
If your child is under 7, you’ll access the NDIS through the Early Childhood Early Intervention (ECEI) pathway. Autism support at this age focuses on early intervention and family capacity building. Your child’s plan should include therapy like OT, speech, and psychology, as well as play-based learning, social skill groups, and behavioural support if needed. Parent education is also important. This can teach you how to support development and manage day-to-day challenges. The earlier your child receives the right support, the more confident and connected they’ll feel as they grow.
Common Questions About NDIS Plans and Autism
What level of autism qualifies for the NDIS?
Levels 2 and 3 are usually considered eligible, but some people with Level 1 autism may also qualify if they can show a significant functional impact on daily life. Supporting reports from therapists and professionals can strengthen an application.
What supports can the NDIS fund for autism?
The NDIS can fund therapy (like OT, speech, and psychology), support workers, assistive technology, behaviour support, sensory tools, social programs, and more — depending on the individual’s goals and needs.
Can I get a support worker funded for autism?
Yes! Many participants with autism receive Core Supports funding for support workers to assist with routines, personal care, social engagement, or community participation.
Can autism Level 1 be funded under the NDIS?
Sometimes, yes. But only if there’s enough evidence showing functional challenges in communication, behaviour, or daily living. This usually requires strong supporting documentation.
Does the NDIS fund iPads or communication devices for autism?
Yes, under Capital Supports, if recommended by a therapist as necessary for communication, learning, or independence.
Need Help Navigating Autism Support?
We can support you to:
- Understand what autism supports to ask for
- Prepare for your NDIS planning meeting or review
- Connect with therapists and services that understand autism
- Get Support Coordination funded in your plan