What Should You Do If You’re Not Eligible for the NDIS in Sydney?
What Should You Do If You’re Not Eligible for the NDIS in Sydney?
- December 11, 2025
Finding out you’re not eligible for the NDIS can leave you feeling confused, disappointed, or even a bit lost — and if you’re in Sydney trying to access support, it may feel like the door has been shut. But here’s the good news: being ineligible for the NDIS doesn’t mean you’re out of options.
There are other pathways, services, and supports you can still tap into. Let’s walk through them together, step by step, so you can feel clearer and more confident about what comes next.
Start With Understanding the Decision
If the NDIS has said no, the first thing to do is understand why. You should receive something in writing explaining the reason you weren’t eligible. This can feel a bit overwhelming to read, but knowing why is your key to deciding what to do next.
Maybe the NDIS needs more information…
Maybe your disability wasn’t fully documented…
Or maybe you simply don’t meet their very specific criteria.
No matter the reason, you’re not stuck — you still have choices.
If It Doesn’t Feel Right, You Can Ask for a Review
If something in the decision doesn’t sit well with you — or you feel the NDIS didn’t get the full picture — you can request a review of the decision. This is completely allowed and more common than you might think.
A review gives you the chance to provide extra reports, letters, or assessments that show how your disability affects your everyday life.
You don’t have to do this alone — disability advocates in Sydney can guide you through the process, explain your rights, and help you prepare your documents. It can feel empowering to know you’ve spoken up for yourself.
Explore State-Based Support in NSW
Even without NDIS funding, there are still state supports available.
In NSW, different government programs offer help with things like personal care, community participation, transport, and daily living. These services aren’t the NDIS, but they offer real, practical help — sometimes immediately and without the long waiting periods.
Many people in Sydney use these supports between NDIS applications or as an alternative when they aren’t eligible at all.
Check Whether You’re Eligible for the Disability Support Pension
If your disability makes it hard to work, you may be able to apply for the Disability Support Pension (DSP) through Centrelink. This won’t replace the kind of services you’d receive through NDIS disability services in Sydney, but it can help ease some financial pressure while you access other options.
Connect With Local Community and Non-Government Organisations
Sydney has a huge range of community organisations and charities that support people with disability — no NDIS plan required.
These organisations can help you with things like:
- Social and community activities
- Advocacy
- Information and guidance
- Peer support
- Skill-building programs
- Referrals to services
And here’s something many people don’t realise: a lot of these organisations partner with NDIS providers in Sydney, which means they’re used to helping people navigate disability support whether they have a plan or not.
Access Private Services (If That’s an Option for You)
Depending on your situation, you might choose to use private disability services — especially for things like physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or counselling.
Some people in Sydney do this temporarily while they wait for a review, or while exploring other support options. If you’ve got private health cover, you may be able to claim some of these services.
It’s completely okay to mix and match — many people do.
Get Support From Advocacy Groups
Disability advocacy services exist for moments exactly like this. They can:
- Help you understand your rights
- Support you with NDIS reviews or appeals
- Connect you to services outside the NDIS
- Speak up on your behalf when needed
Reaching out doesn’t mean you’re not capable — it means you’re building a strong team around you.
Look Into Employment and Study Supports
If you’re looking for work or trying to stay in a job, there are programs built specifically for people with disability — regardless of NDIS eligibility.
Disability Employment Services (DES) can help you:
- Find work
- Build your skills
- Access workplace modifications
- Get support once you’re employed
Several Sydney-based providers specialise in working alongside people who don’t have an NDIS plan, so you’re definitely not excluded.
Don’t Forget Community Groups and Peer Support
One of the most underrated sources of support is community. Sydney has plenty of disability-friendly community groups, social networks, recreational programs, and peer meet-ups where you can connect with others who truly get it.
Sometimes the most powerful support comes from people walking a similar path.
You Still Have Options — You’re Not Alone
Being told you’re not eligible for the NDIS can feel incredibly disheartening, but it doesn’t define your worth or your access to support. There are still many services in Sydney — including community programs, state support, private services, and advocacy groups — ready to help you live a full, connected, and independent life.
Whether you’re exploring local community support, looking into the DSP, reviewing your NDIS decision, or connecting with an NDIS provider in Sydney for guidance on next steps, there are pathways forward.
If you ever feel stuck, remember: support looks different for everyone, and there’s no “right” way to navigate this. Take it one step at a time — and reach out whenever you need someone in your corner.
A Note From Us at Concept Care
If you’re exploring your options — whether you have an NDIS plan or you’re looking for private disability support — my team and I at Concept Care are here if you ever need us.
We’re an NDIS Service Provider in Sydney, and we also support people privately, offering in-home assistance and personalised care built around your needs and goals. Our care managers are available around the clock, and our support workers bring a lot of heart and experience to the work they do.
If you’d like to chat or simply learn more about how we can help, you can reach us on 1800 266 237 or [email protected]. Whether you choose us or another service, I hope you find support that feels right for you.