How to prepare a support request
A clear support request helps a provider understand what you are looking for and decide whether they may be able to respond. You do not need to know every service name before asking. Describe the practical help needed, where it is needed and how the provider can contact you. A Care4AU request is free and does not commit you to a provider.
Before you start
If you are a participant, you can complete the form yourself or ask a family member, carer or support coordinator to help. Make sure the person is comfortable with the information being shared. If you are helping someone else, explain what the form does and get their permission before submitting details.
What to include
- Location: suburb and state or territory, such as Perth, WA. Avoid including a full home address in the first request.
- Type of help: use everyday words, for example help with personal care, appointments, household tasks, allied health or community activities.
- Timing: say when support is hoped to begin and whether the need is ongoing, occasional or time limited.
- Preferences: mention communication, language, accessibility, cultural or scheduling preferences that matter to the person.
- Funding context: share only what is needed to ask about fit, such as NDIS plan-managed, self-managed, NDIA-managed, aged care or private payment. Do not include bank details or full plan documents.
- Email address: check it carefully because Care4AU uses email to reply. The form does not require a phone number.
Protect private information
Do not put a diagnosis, NDIS number, Medicare number, date of birth, password, payment details or detailed medical history in an open text box. A provider can ask appropriate questions later through a suitable process. Share sensitive information only when necessary, with the person’s consent and through a secure channel.
What happens after you submit
Care4AU reviews the request and may ask a follow-up question by email. We will ask before sharing the request with a provider. A provider may not have availability or may not respond, and directory listings do not guarantee suitability. Compare responses, check costs and agreements directly, and take time before deciding.
If you need urgent help
Care4AU is not an emergency service. If a person is in immediate danger, call 000. For urgent health advice, contact a health professional or the relevant Australian health service.
Read how participant requests work, use the free support request form, or see our first-call checklist. Check current NDIS information at NDIS: finding and choosing providers.