NDIS funding- what is allowable spending?

May 18, 2023 Jennifer Gordon

NDIS funding can be confusing- What can you use the money for? Who is ok to use the funding with?

To keep it simple- just ask yourself:

‘How does this relate directly to the disability’ and

‘is this an expense I would pay so I could function in daily life if the NDIS was not paying?’

The NDIS will ask if it meets the ‘Reasonable and Necessary’ criteria. Be mindful that just like a taxation audit, you can be audtied by the NDIS if you are not using the funding within their guidelines.

What questions should I ask before spending from my NDIS plan?

Is it a cost anyone would experience regardless of disability?
As an example we are responsible for paying for our own actvities: Holidays, Movies, Swimming Pool entry. However when a support is needed to participate in the activity, this can be funded. IE: Support Worker to attend event or holiday with you. A walker or wheelchair funded to be indepedent in the community and access events, a Physio at the pool funded to run you through the hydrotherapy. Some exceptions may be: Respite includes activities and food, however this is a short term stay to provide Carers with a break and not to be used as an all inclusive ‘Holiday’.
Is this a disability specific expense?
Some of the items the NDIS typically say ‘no’ to funding are tech devices. Do you specifically need an IPad to manage your disability? If someone needs to use pictures (PECS) for communication as they are non verbal, this is required to enable communication and directly related to disability. If having an IPad is not essential to being able to function in daily life without it, then it’s likely not a disability specific item. I would argue an exception is use of a smart watch for training in routines and prompts to take breaks if this is recommended by a Therapist to manage symptoms.
Is it value for money?
Finding the best value for money item that completes the job is essential. Tech is a great example of this as if a Smart Watch is recommended the base line model would be recommended that performs the functions needed. If you wanted a top of the line- latest edition item, you would need to negotatiate paying the difference for the higher cost item.
Is it evidence based in the management of my disability or the barriers I experience due to my disability?
When any therapist is making recommendations they should align with evidence based practice. Has research proven the effectiveness of the treatment or modification they are recommending? How was the level of support you need determined? The NDIS will likely look at what tests were completed and how your ability compares with the population without a disability. Providing supports is about closing the gap to achieve your goals and have access to the same opportunities others would have. While I understand the frustration as some alternative therapies DO help, these are often not funded and considered a personal expense. Finding a Support Coordinmator who can think outside the box with options to meet your needs is vital. If you relax if in the outdoors, they can find you a walk and talk therapist. If you love animals, they can find a registered equine therapist. Then these treatments pass the ‘legit’ test with practitioners having proven they are the real deal and know what they are doing using creative methods.

If you have a Support Coordinator who say’s NO to all your out of the box requests consider contacting us for a tailored service that fits within the NDIS guidelines.