# How do I apply to the NDIS for my autistic child?

> The steps, the evidence that helps, what happens after you apply, and where younger children start.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/ndis-application-autism
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** To apply, check eligibility, gather disability evidence from your child's clinicians, then submit an access request to the NDIS. Children younger than 9 usually start through the NDIS early childhood approach, which can help even before an application. If your child is 8 or under with low to moderate needs, Thriving Kids may also be an option from October 2026.

**Key takeaways**
- **Check eligibility**, then **gather evidence**, then **apply**.
- Children **under 9** usually start with the **early childhood approach**.
- Evidence that describes **daily life** is the most useful.
- You can **ask for a review** if you disagree with a decision.

## What are the steps to apply?

1. **Check eligibility** with the NDIS eligibility checklist.[2]
2. **Gather disability evidence** from treating professionals.[3]
3. **Make an access request** by phone, online or on a form.[1]
4. **Wait for the decision.** If approved, you'll plan supports with the NDIS.

## Where do younger children start?

Children **younger than 9** with developmental delay or disability are usually supported through the **early childhood approach**. Early childhood partners can give quick help through "early connections", even if a child isn't eligible for the NDIS.[4] See [What is the NDIS early childhood approach?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/ndis-early-childhood-approach)

## What evidence helps most?

**Try:**
- Reports from a paediatrician, psychologist, OT or speech pathologist
- The diagnosis, who made it and the level
- Specific examples of daily life: dressing, communication, safety
- What's been tried and what helped

**Skip:**
- General statements without examples
- Old reports that don't reflect your child now

**Write your own notes too.** A short parent summary of a typical day helps clinicians write evidence that matches real life.

**Thriving Kids.** From 1 October 2026, children 8 and under with low to moderate needs can use Thriving Kids without a diagnosis. See
  [What is Thriving Kids?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/thriving-kids)

**Get help if....** you're refused access or the process feels overwhelming. Disability advocacy services can help you prepare evidence
  and ask for a review.

Free printable: [Free printable: appointment notes](https://theautismkit.com/printables/appointment-notes.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Do the NDIS eligibility checklist
- [ ] List your child's clinicians and request reports
- [ ] Write a one-page summary of a typical day

Read next: [Can my autistic child get NDIS funding?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/ndis-autism-funding)

## Common questions

### Who can help me apply?

Early childhood partners (for children under 9), local area coordinators, your child's clinicians and disability advocacy services can all help.

### What if the NDIS says no?

You can ask for an internal review of the decision, and then an external review if needed. Advocacy services can help.

### Do I need a diagnosis before applying?

Not always. Young children can get help through the early childhood approach without a diagnosis, and Thriving Kids won't require one. For NDIS access, a diagnosis and evidence of impact help.

## Sources

1. NDIS: How to apply. https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying/application-process/how-apply
2. NDIS: How to check your eligibility. https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying/eligibility-requirements/how-check-your-eligibility
3. NDIS: What are examples of disability evidence. https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying/gathering-evidence/what-are-examples-disability-evidence
4. NDIS: Guide to the early childhood approach. https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying/children/guide-early-childhood-approach

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.