What does “most severe and profound disability” mean when accessing the NDIS?

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When the NDIS refers to “most severe and profound disability,” it generally means a disability that significantly impacts a person’s ability to perform daily activities and participate in society. In many instances, those with the most severe and profound disability needs require support multiple times a day to live an ordinary life. This can be 1:1 or group-based support provided by informal supports, mainstream systems, or funded NDIS support.

Here are some key aspects: 

Characteristics of Severe and Profound Disabilities

  1. High Level of Support Needs: Individuals with severe and profound disabilities often require extensive support for daily living activities, such as personal care, mobility, communication, and social interaction.
  2. Permanent and Significant Impairment: The permanent disability results in substantial functional limitations. This individual will likely need lifelong support.
  3. Impact on Multiple Areas of Life: The disability affects various aspects of life, including education, employment, social participation, and independence.

Examples of Severe and Profound Disabilities

  • Intellectual Disabilities: Severe or profound intellectual disabilities significantly limiting cognitive functioning and adaptive behaviour.
  • Physical Disabilities: Conditions like quadriplegia or severe cerebral palsy that result in significant physical impairments.
  • Sensory Disabilities: Profound vision or hearing impairments severely limiting communication and interaction.
  • Multiple Disabilities: Individuals with multiple disabilities that together create a high level of support needs.

NDIS Eligibility

To access the NDIS, individuals with severe and profound disabilities must demonstrate that their condition meets the following criteria:

  1. Permanent and Significant: The disability must be permanent and result in substantial functional limitations.
  2. Functional Impact: The disability must significantly impact the individual’s ability to perform daily activities and participate in society.
  3. Support Needs: The individual must require ongoing support to manage their disability-related support needs and live an ordinary life.