To become an NDIS participant, you need to meet three requirements:

1. Age: you're under 65 when you apply.
2. Residency: you're an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa and you live in Australia.
3. Disability or early intervention: you have a permanent and significant disability. Permanent means it's likely to be with you for life. Significant means it substantially affects your ability to take part in everyday activities. Participants can also qualify under early intervention rules, where getting support now reduces future support needs. Early Intervention is a common pathway for young children.

You'll need evidence from health professionals showing your diagnosis and, importantly, how your disability affects your daily life. The functional impact matters as much as the diagnosis.