Many people think ADHD doesn’t qualify for NDIS support. That’s simply not true.
We’ve seen countless families and adults believe their ADHD NDIS eligibility doesn’t exist because ADHD isn’t “severe enough.” But it’s not about how “severe” your diagnosis sounds. It’s about how much ADHD impacts your daily life.
The NDIS looks at functional impact, not diagnostic labels. If ADHD makes it hard to work, study, or manage daily tasks, you might qualify for support. The key is understanding what the NDIS actually looks for.
ADHD isn’t just a childhood phase you grow out of. It’s a neurobiological condition that affects your brain permanently. Research shows clear differences in brain structure and function for people with ADHD.
The NDIS recognises ADHD as a potential psychosocial disability. This means it can qualify if it significantly reduces your ability to participate in daily activities. The condition must be permanent and substantially impact your life.
Think about it this way, if ADHD makes it hard to keep a job, maintain relationships, or manage household tasks, that’s a functional impact. The NDIS cares about these effects, not just your diagnosis.
Anyone with ADHD can apply for NDIS support if they meet specific criteria. You need to show that ADHD substantially reduces your ability to participate in daily activities.
The NDIS looks for:
Age matters too. Children under 7 can access early intervention support more easily. Adults and older children need to prove significant functional impact.
Your ADHD NDIS application doesn’t depend on severity of symptoms alone. It’s about how these symptoms affect your work, relationships, and daily tasks.
For reference, please read NDIS Official Eligibility Criteria.
ADHD can qualify as a disability under the NDIS, but it depends on your individual circumstances. The NDIS defines disability as permanent impairment that substantially reduces your capacity to carry out daily activities.
For ADHD to qualify, you need to demonstrate:
Many adults with ADHD qualify because they can’t maintain steady work or manage household responsibilities without support. Children might qualify if ADHD severely impacts their learning and social development.
The key is proving functional impact, not just having a diagnosis.
For a full breakdown of how ADHD can be supported through the NDIS, see our detailed guide: ADHD & NDIS: A Parent’s Guide (Melbourne, 2025)
Yes, the NDIS can cover people with ADHD. But there’s a catch, you need proper evidence and documentation.
The NDIS doesn’t have a list of “approved” conditions. Instead, they assess each person individually. ADHD can qualify as a psychosocial disability if it meets their criteria.
Recent changes to NDIS funding have made applications more rigorous. You need comprehensive assessments showing how ADHD impacts your daily functioning. Simple diagnosis letters aren’t enough anymore.
Many successful applicants have ADHD alongside other conditions like autism or anxiety. These co-occurring conditions can strengthen your case for support.
Absolutely. Children aged 7 and older can get NDIS support for ADHD if they meet eligibility criteria.
The process is slightly different from early intervention support (for kids under 7). Older children need to show:
School reports, psychological assessments, and occupational therapy evaluations help build a strong case. Teachers’ observations about classroom behavior and learning difficulties are particularly valuable.
Parents often find success when they document specific examples of how ADHD affects their child’s daily life at home and school.
Getting NDIS funding for ADHD requires careful preparation and the right evidence. Here’s your step-by-step approach:
Step 1: Gather your evidence
Step 2: Complete your application
Step 3: Prepare for assessment
The process typically takes 21 days, but complex cases can take longer. Having comprehensive documentation speeds things up.
When ADHD qualifies for NDIS, it’s usually classified as a psychosocial disability. This category covers mental health conditions that affect daily functioning.
ADHD often occurs alongside other conditions that might also qualify:
Having co-occurring conditions can strengthen your NDIS application. The combined impact of these diagnoses often meets the “substantial impairment” threshold more easily than ADHD alone.
For instance, NDIS support services for autism are well-established, so individuals with both ADHD and autism often have clearer pathways to receiving support.
To see which conditions are considered likely to meet the NDIS disability requirements, refer to the official NDIS list of conditions. While ADHD on its own may not always qualify, the presence of additional diagnoses can make a significant difference.
The NDIS has specific requirements you must meet. For ADHD, you need to prove:
Residency Requirements:
Age Requirements:
Disability Requirements:
Evidence Requirements:
The hardest part is usually proving substantial functional impact. You need specific examples of how ADHD affects work, relationships, and daily tasks.
Applying for NDIS support is a big decision. Here’s what to think about first:
Financial Considerations:
Time Investment:
Support Team:
Realistic Expectations:
Don’t let these considerations stop you, but be prepared for the journey ahead.
For reference, please read Melbourne Parent’s Guide to Developmental Support and ADHD NDIS Resources
NDIS supports for ADHD fall into three main categories:
Core Supports:
Capacity Building:
Capital Supports:
Many people with ADHD benefit from executive function coaching, occupational therapy, and behavioural support services. The key is matching support to your specific needs and goals.
No, your income doesn’t affect NDIS eligibility. The NDIS is not means-tested.
Whether you earn minimum wage or six figures, you can still qualify for NDIS support if you meet the disability criteria. This makes the NDIS different from many other government services.
However, income might affect:
The focus remains on your disability and support needs, not your bank account.
Once you receive NDIS funding, one of the most important steps is finding a provider who genuinely understands ADHD; its challenges, strengths, and day-to-day impact. At Roaming Therapy, we specialise in supporting neurodivergent individuals, including those with ADHD, through tailored therapeutic services across Melbourne’s northern suburbs.
Whether you’re based in Reservoir, Epping, or Sunshine, our mobile team comes to you, offering flexible, compassionate support in your environment.
Here’s what makes Roaming Therapy different:
When you’re choosing a provider, don’t settle for generic. ADHD is nuanced and so is the care it deserves. At Roaming Therapy, we’re here to walk alongside you with the tools, understanding, and respect you need to thrive.
Learn more about our services or get in touch to find the right therapist for you or your child.
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