One of the final acts of the Gillard Government has come into effect today with the official beginning of the national disability insurance scheme, now called DisabilityCare.

The multibillion dollar scheme will offer people with permanent or significant disabilities to choose what kind of support and care they will need.

Launched sites have already started benefitting around 26,000 people across four states. By 2019 nearly 500, 000 Australians should be receiving some kind of care. The scheme is being funded by the Commonwealth and State governments, as well as a bump in the Medicare levy.

Disability campaigners say the scheme will improve lives, helping those with disabilities transition "from being a dependant lifestyle into one where they have all the sorts of opportunities that other Australians take for granted," said John Della Bosca, from the lobby group Every Australian Counts, "it really is about basic human freedom."

About 10 per cent of Australians suffering mental illness will be covered by DisabilityCare Australia. The Mental Health Council of Australia has welcomed the systemic overhaul, saying sufferers of a range of conditions can now get all the help they need at times of crisis, and intermittent support when they are functioning well alone.

The adaptability, efficacy and technical aspects of DisabilityCare are continuing to be tested on the early rollout sites, but the facility should soon be there for many Australians in need.