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When do I need a Carer Statement for an NDIS Application or Review?

This FAQ explains what a carer Statement is and how to write one.

A Carer Statement (sometimes referred to as an Impact Statement) is a written letter by someone who cares for or is involved in the treatment of an individual living with a disability.

It details in depth how their disability is impacting their life and the lives of those around them. It is used by the NDIA to demonstrate the everyday difficulties experienced by the individual and their family and to verify how much care and support an individual may need.

A Carer/Impact Statement is not compulsory but most certainly can affect the level of funding received as it will provide a more accurate picture. The NDIA will not always ask for supporting letters/statements but these can help strengthen your application because it provides a clear picture of the supports that are needed.

Writing a carer statement can often be uncomfortable to mention all these things, but it is essential to give the NDIS a complete overview of what supports are needed and therefore the appropriate level of funding. Don’t hold back. It is important to remember you are not complaining or asking for too much – you are simply letting them know what you and your loved ones’ daily life is like. 

How do I write a Carer / Impact Statement? 

The NDIS does not specify any formal guideline or template to develop a Carer’s Statement. It could be an informal letter or a structured statement. It can be whatever you choose. Either way, it should include information about the person you care for:

  • their disability and how it impacts their day-to-day functioning
  • what they need support with, and what their carer does to support them
  • your own needs and goals as a carer, and how the caring role affects you
  • whether you can keep caring for them in the same way into the future
  • what other informal supports they have, such as family or friends
  • any other important information for the NDIA to know when assessing which supports they might require. 

Another way to formulate a statement is to address each of the main 8 categories within the NDIS and then explain: 

  • what supports are provided
  • how often
  • the cost involved 
  • as well as the emotional impact that can sometimes occur 

These 8 categories are: 

  1. Daily Living
  2. Home
  3. Health and Well-being
  4. Lifelong Learning
  5. Work
  6. Social and Community Participation
  7. Relationships
  8. Choice and Control 

Again, there is no right way or wrong way to write a carer statement but you should describe your worst day so that you communicate the maximum amount of support provided. 

Who else can provide an Impact Statement?

An impact statement can also be provided by any person, family member or provider that supports and cares for a person with a disability. Their input may be beneficial in communicating to the NDIS the level of support needed. 

Examples of a sample Carer / Impact Statement

Here are a few examples of carer/impact statements:

Reimagine: Sample Carer Statement

Carers Australia: Sample Carer Statement from Claire 

Carers Australia: Sample Carer Statement from John 

Carer Checklist 

Carers Australia has created a Carer Checklist which is useful in helping you prepare for an NDIS planning meeting and can be provided to the planner.This checklist is for people who provide unpaid care and support to a family member or friend with a disability who is a participant in the NDIS or who is eligible to be a participant. Here is the link to their list;

Carer Checklist

Written by Leticia Grant, Advocacy Manager DDWA