What you need to know about NDIS ADHD support
Currently, the NDIS does not recognise ADHD as a primary disorder eligible for funding. But people may still qualify for NDIS ADHD support if condition impacts a person’s daily life.
Diagnosis rates for ADHD have seen a notable increase over the years. It affects more than one million people in Australia alone. With its growing prevalence, discussions about its inclusion in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) have gained momentum.
In 2023, NDIS Minister Bill Shorten acknowledged the need to revisit ADHD’s place in the NDIS, sparking hope for individuals and families seeking additional support. However, as it stands, ADHD isn’t included in the list of conditions likely to meet NDIS disability requirements. That said, there are pathways to access support through the NDIS if certain criteria are met.
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with ADHD, you’ve probably asked these questions: What kind of support is available? Where does the NDIS come in? What are your options if the NDIS isn’t the right fit? In this case, understanding more about NDIS ADHD support can make all the difference. Continue reading to explore your options.
What is ADHD?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that impacts a person’s focus, impulse control and activity levels. It’s not simply about being “distracted” or “over-energetic.”
ADHD significantly affects daily life, from academic or professional challenges to difficulties with relationships or self-care.
Is ADHD a disability?
Beyond its symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, ADHD often intersects with other mental health conditions or learning disabilities which makes its impact more complex. Having said that, people living with ADHD need targeted support to recognise behaviours shaped by the condition to help them proactively address their needs and find ways to thrive.
How does the government currently view NDIS ADHD support?
The NDIS exists to provide support for Australians with significant, permanent disabilities. But it’s important to note that the focus of getting an NDIS ADHD diagnosis is not solely on the diagnosis itself but more importantly on how the condition impacts a person’s daily life.
Currently, the NDIS does not recognise ADHD as a primary disorder eligible for funding. While there are NDIS participants who list ADHD as their sole disability in their application, not everyone with ADHD will meet the access requirements under the NDIS ACT. But people may still qualify for support under two key scenarios:
Co-existing conditions: If ADHD co-exists with another condition or disability which could be a primary disability (e.g. autism and ADHD), NDIS as funding may be approved based on those diagnoses.
Functional impact: Even without a co-existing condition, a person may qualify if they can demonstrate that ADHD has a substantial impact on their ability to carry out everyday activities. This distinction matters. Instead of being diagnosis or condition-focused, the applicant must meet each of the five criteria to satisfy the NDIS disability requirements:
- the disability is caused by an impairment;
- the impairment is likely to be permanent;
- the permanent impairment substantially reduces their functional capacity to undertake one or more of the following activities: moving around, communicating, socialising, learning or undertaking self-care or self-management tasks;
- the permanent impairment affects their ability to work, study or take part in social life; and
- they will likely need support under the NDIS for their whole life
Advocacy for NDIS ADHD Support
The push for NDIS ADHD to be formally recognised continues. Advocacy groups argue that its exclusion overlooks the significant challenges faced by individuals and families living with the condition. Early intervention, they stress, is not just beneficial but transformative.
While systemic changes are slow to implement, the growing awareness of ADHD and its impact on daily life is a positive step forward. The goal is to have a future where all Australians, regardless of their condition, have access to the support they need to live a happy and fulfilling life.
How Leora Healthcare can help
Our team at Leora Healthcare provides personalised disability supports and services that will help you take confident steps forward in your journey.
If you or your loved one needs additional hands-on help, our compassionate support workers are ready to assist by providing care tailored to your specific needs. Contact us to get started today.