Understanding how the NDIS fits with the broader system of government and community services is essential for participants, carers, and support coordinators. In this guide, we’ll compare NDIS supports with mainstream services, clarify who is responsible for what, bust common myths, and offer questions you can ask when planning.
What Are Mainstream Services?
Mainstream services are public systems and supports used by all Australians, regardless of disability. These include health care, education, mental health, justice, housing, transport, employment services, and more.
These systems have a legal responsibility to provide equitable access, reasonable adjustments, and inclusive services. The NDIS is not intended to replace them.
What Are NDIS Supports?
The NDIS provides disability-specific, individualized supports that address the functional impact of a person’s disability. Examples include in-home support, assistive technology, therapy funding, and support for social and community participation.
NDIS supports must meet the “reasonable and necessary” test and cannot fund services that are clearly the responsibility of mainstream systems.
How Do They Work Together?
The question often is: Which system should fund a given support? The NDIS works in conjunction with mainstream and community services, following agreed principles and guidelines.
Key Principles and Decision Criteria
- The support must be disability-related, not something broadly provided by governments
- The mainstream service must be unable to deliver it under its normal responsibilities
- The support must be reasonable, necessary, and value for money
- Governments agreed on applied principles and tables of support to guide who funds what
For example, mainstream schooling will fund teaching adjustments and curriculum access, while NDIS might fund personal care during school or assistive technology used across life. Some third-party guides offer helpful comparisons.
Example Comparisons
| Service / Need | Mainstream Role | NDIS Role (When Disability‑Related) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary health care, immunisations | Funded via public health | Not funded by NDIS |
| Therapy in schools for curriculum | Education system covers | NDIS may fund additional therapy tied to life goals |
| Transport in public networks | Government transport systems | NDIS funds specialist transport if standard isn’t viable |
| Community centre programs | Local councils or community organisations | NDIS may fund support worker or accessibility aids |
Common Myths and Misconceptions
- Myth: NDIS will pay for anything mainstream does not.
Reality: If a mainstream service is responsible for the support, the NDIS cannot duplicate it. - Myth: NDIS covers the full cost of education, therapy, and equipment.
Reality: Many educational supports remain the responsibility of the education system. NDIS may assist where disability impact is significant. - Myth: If mainstream services don’t deliver, NDIS automatically steps in.
Reality: There must be legal or policy obligations. NDIS doesn’t replace gaps by default.
FAQs
How do I know which system is responsible for a support?
Ask whether that support is normally offered by health, education, transport, or community services. Then check your NDIS plan and talk with your support coordinator or planner.
Can NDIS fund supports even if mainstream systems exist?
Yes, but only where the mainstream cannot meet the need, or where adjustments or enhancements are required due to disability.
What if a mainstream service is unavailable in my area?
If a service is not accessible locally, you may ask your planner whether NDIS can fund an alternative solution or travel support.
Who develops the rules about NDIS vs mainstream support?
These are set in NDIS legislation, government policy, and guidelines that define how systems work together.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between mainstream and NDIS services is critical. It helps you know where to go for support, avoid duplication or gaps, and target your NDIS funding more effectively.
If you’re unsure, start by comparing existing services in health, education, transport, and community. Then ask your planner or support coordinator how your NDIS goals can complement those services rather than replace them.
