NDIS Glossary and Jargon Buster for Participants
A plain-English NDIS glossary explaining 38 common terms — LAC, SIL, SDA, plan manager and more — in one copy-and-use table for participants.
How to use this glossary
The glossary — 38 common NDIS terms in plain English
A worked example: reading a line in your plan
Reform-era terms you will start hearing
Common mix-ups and mistakes
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the NDIS and the NDIA?
The NDIS is the scheme — the funding and rules. The NDIA is the agency that runs it: it decides eligibility, approves plans, and makes payments. You are a participant in the NDIS; the NDIA is who you deal with.
Do I have to memorise all these terms?
No. Keep this glossary handy and look terms up as they come up. It is always reasonable to ask a planner, LAC, or provider to explain a word in plain English before you agree to anything.
What is 'reasonable and necessary' in simple terms?
It is the test the NDIA uses to decide whether to fund a support. Broadly, the support must relate to your disability, represent value for money, be likely to be effective, and not be something another system (like health or education) should provide. The exact wording is in the NDIS legislation.
Who can help me if the jargon is too much?
A funded advocate (often free through a disability advocacy organisation), your support coordinator, or an LAC can all help you understand your plan and the terms in it. You do not have to work it out alone.
Where do I go if I have a concern about a provider, or if I am not safe?
For concerns about a provider's conduct, contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission on 1800 035 544. If you are in immediate danger, call 000. If you need someone to talk to, Lifeline is available on 13 11 14.