Bipolar Disorder — NDIS Support
Yes — Bipolar Disorder can qualify for NDIS support. As a psychosocial disability, eligibility is based on the functional impact of Bipolar Disorder, not the diagnosis alone. Funding covers reasonable and necessary supports across daily living, therapy, social participation and capacity building.
Bipolar disorder is a chronic, episodic mood disorder characterised by recurrent episodes of mania (or hypomania in bipolar II) and major depression, separated by periods of remission. Bipolar I disorder involves at least one full manic episode (elevated or irritable mood, decreased need for sleep,…
Bipolar Disorder & the NDIS FAQs
- Does bipolar disorder qualify for NDIS?
- Bipolar disorder may qualify for NDIS where it causes a persistent and significant functional disability — the NDIS psychosocial disability approach assesses functional impact rather than diagnosis. Not all people with bipolar disorder will meet the threshold. Those with severe, frequently cycling, or…
- Is NDIS available to someone with bipolar disorder who works?
- Yes, if the bipolar disorder causes significant functional disability in other domains even while the person manages employment. NDIS supports are not means-tested and do not depend on employment status. In fact, NDIS Capacity Building can fund supports specifically aimed at maintaining employment — vocational…
- How does NDIS handle the episodic nature of bipolar disorder?
- NDIS plans for bipolar disorder should include flexible core support funding that can be drawn on differently during well periods versus unwell periods. Crisis support planning — documenting early warning signs, escalation steps, emergency contacts and crisis supports — should be explicitly included. During…
- What is IPSRT and does NDIS fund it?
- Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy (IPSRT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy for bipolar disorder that targets the disruption of social rhythms (sleep, daily routines, social interactions) that can trigger mood episodes. It is delivered by psychologists and mental health clinicians. NDIS funds psychology sessions…
- Can NDIS fund safe accommodation during a crisis episode?
- NDIS can fund short-term accommodation (STA/respite) as a crisis support — this provides a safe, supported environment when the person's home situation is unsafe during an acute episode, providing time-limited relief and stability. Crisis STA must be in the NDIS plan or approved as a plan variation. Inpatient…
Bipolar Disorder & the NDIS — practical guides
- Applying for the NDIS with Bipolar Disorder
- Assistive Technology for Bipolar Disorder
- Day Programs & Community Participation for Bipolar Disorder
- NDIS Employment Support (SLES & DES) for Bipolar Disorder
- NDIS Funding & Budget for Bipolar Disorder
- Therapy & Allied Health for Bipolar Disorder
- Finding & Managing Support Workers for Bipolar Disorder
Related conditions
- Major Depression and the NDIS
- Borderline Personality Disorder and the NDIS
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and the NDIS
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and the NDIS
- Anxiety Disorders and the NDIS
- Eating Disorders and the NDIS
- Personality Disorders and the NDIS
- Fibromyalgia and the NDIS
- Myalgic Encephalomyelitis / Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and the NDIS
- Inflammatory Arthritis and the NDIS
Sources
Reviewed by the Novida editorial team · last reviewed 2026-07-12. General information only — not medical advice.