Does the NDIS cover autism assessment? And ADHD and cognitive
The NDIS generally funds supports, not the diagnostic assessment that gets you onto the scheme.
Dates
What is changing, and when.
Your plan
The parts of a plan in plain words.
Reassessment
What a review conversation is.
General information only. Not the NDIA, not a diagnosis, and not a funding decision. Rules change — check ndis.gov.au before you act.
Diagnosis vs supports
- Getting a diagnosis is usually not NDIS-funded.
- Supports can be funded once you are a participant, if reasonable and necessary.
Autism
Autism can be a qualifying condition. Access depends on functional impact, not the label alone.
ADHD
ADHD is not automatically eligible. Access depends on permanent, significant functional impact and a likely lifetime need for support.
The practical path
- Get the diagnosis, usually before applying.
- Gather functional evidence for a hard day.
- Apply with both diagnosis and function.
- If you get in, build a plan around reasonable and necessary supports.
Prepare with the Reassessment Prep Pack →
Common questions
Does the NDIS pay for an autism assessment?
Generally no for the diagnostic assessment to get in. Supports may be funded afterward.
Does the NDIS cover ADHD?
Not automatically. Functional impact and permanence matter.
Related: Eligibility · FCA · Access request