Only reasonable and essential services—that is, supports that are just and something you need—will be covered by the National Disability Insurance Scheme. While the NDIS won't pay for your groceries, if you require that kind of care, they will cover the cost of having a support person accompany you shopping. Consider the expenses that a person without a disability would pay for on their own; these are the things the NDIS does not cover. Generally, a non-disabled individual is responsible for paying for their club membership, sports registration, uniform, and basic equipment. We can discuss what makes sense and is essential for you. Occupational therapists, assistive technology, continence supplies, and the ability to purchase Fitbits are a few of these items. A legally validated list of "things" that cannot be purchased with NDIS funds does not exist, except alcohol, tobacco products, gambling and pokies, and anything that is prohibited.
Supports not funded by the NDIS
Your daily expenses
The NDIS doesn't pay for most of your everyday costs, such as food, phone bills, event tickets, or general living costs. There is an idea that people who don't have disabilities buy these things with their own money, and the NDIS is there to help people who do have disabilities.
Most likely, the NDIS won't pay for something that a person who doesn't have a disability would buy with their own money. But, as with most things in the NDIS, it's not always clear-cut. The NDIS looks at your wants and situation to determine how much money you need and what you should use that money for.
Not related to your disability
This one seems pretty simple, but there is more to it than meets the eye. The NDIS won't pay for anything that has nothing to do with your handicap. You could also say that the NDIS won't pay for supports that aren't related to your condition. The important thing to remember is that the NDIS can decide your needs. Because of this, a lot of this will be chosen at your meeting to plan. It's important to note that the NDIS usually does a great job of knowing and asking the right questions. But if you want to make the most of your planning meeting, read our blog post "3 steps: How to ace your NDIS planning meeting." The NDIS may pay for some support, but that doesn't always mean you can get them. Different types of support allow that budget to be spent in certain ways. They may allow for some flexibility but also be very strict.
It backs up other NDIS-funded supports
The NDIS is a specific way of funding that ensures that people who take part get the help they need for their daily lives and health. Because of this, the NDIS can't pay for supports that are the same as other supports it offers through different funding. The NDIS may not pay for the same help again if the person is already getting it from other government-funded programs or schemes, like insurance plans or state or federal government funding. This is because the NDIS is in charge of ensuring that its money is used properly and effectively. It doesn't want to offer the same services already out there.
Illegal support
The NDIS can't pay for any kind of help that is against the law in Australia. One of the main goals of the NDIS is to improve its members' health, well-being, and safety. Giving money for help that isn't legal would go against this concept and could hurt the participant. The NDIS is meant to help people who follow all the rules and laws that apply to them. If the NDIS pays for illegal help, it would be breaking the law and could face legal consequences. But while the NDIS is in charge of ensuring the support is legal, they aren't in charge of ensuring all of your support is legal. They are not responsible for ensuring that your NDIS Plan support meets all legal and administrative standards. Read more on what NDIS can pay for.
An income replacement
When someone with a disability can't work or make a living because of their handicap, they need income replacement. In this case, the person may get money from disabled pensions, insurance payments, or other benefits that replace their income. The NDIS says it can only pay for payouts that replace lost income if it fits its goals. The NDIS aims to help disabled people reach their goals and be a part of society by paying for fair and necessary support. The plan isn't meant to give disabled people the money they would have made if they weren't handicapped.
Instead, the NDIS pays for services that help disabled people participate in their communities and reach their goals. For example, the NDIS could pay for personal care, therapy, equipment, and changes to the person's house. With these services and tools, a person can do more tasks independently and with less help.
Is there funding from the NDIS for parents and caregivers?
The NDIS is there to help disabled people in Australia. But what about the people who care? Caregivers often ask us what NDIS services and help are available for them, which is a good question. At the moment, there aren't any resources that are only for caregivers. It depends on what the disabled person needs. A short-term place to stay is the closest thing to help for the caregiver. This is a kind of break, in a way.
Related: What is NDIS Plan Management?
Things that could hurt you or other people
One of the main goals of the NDIS is to ensure that people who use it get safe services and support that won't hurt them or anyone else. For instance, let's say a participant asks for a support worker who has a past of violence or a criminal record. The NDIS might not pay for that help because it could hurt the user or others. In the same way, let's say a participant asks for a support service that uses unsafe tools that haven't been properly tested. The NDIS might not pay for that help because it could hurt the user or others.
It's important to know that the NDIS is person-centred, which means that when funding decisions are made, they consider each participant's wants and situation. Take the case of a person who needs help or service, and there is a chance that they could get hurt. If that happens, the NDIS will help the person find other safe and successful options. Also, people with disabilities have a duty to their providers to make sure that the NDIS-funded supports are safe, used properly, and keep others safe. You and your service should also be ready to handle any risks.
Conclusion
The NDIS pays for many services and aids that assist disabled people through tough times and reach their objectives. But the NDIS doesn't pay for everything, and people who participate in it must pay for those things. People with disabilities and their families need to know what the NDIS covers and doesn't cover so that they can plan and keep track of their support and services well. You can find useful information and tips on what the NDIS will pay for on their website and planning tool. You can also talk to your NDIS planner or support coordinator for help and tips on understanding your NDIS funding and getting the most out of your support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why doesn't the NDIS cover everyday living expenses like rent and groceries?
The NDIS is designed to provide support specifically related to a participant's disability, not to cover general living expenses. Other income sources or social support systems are expected to meet these costs.
A must read: The Role of Nutrition in NDIS Participant Well-Being
How do I know if the NDIS covers a medical service?
Medical services related directly to managing or treating your disability may be covered. The public healthcare system or private health insurance is responsible for other medical services. For specifics, it's best to consult your NDIS planner or support coordinator.
When does the NDIS cover home modifications?
Home modifications are covered when they are essential for you to live safely and independently due to disability. This includes things like ramps, handrails, or bathroom modifications.
Does the NDIS support any leisure activities?
The NDIS may fund support required for you to engage in leisure activities, such as a support worker to assist you. However, it won't cover the cost of the activity itself, like tickets or equipment, unless it's specifically related to your disability needs.
How does the NDIS determine what standard items are not covered?
The NDIS will not fund items that are considered everyday essentials for everyone, such as common household appliances and personal clothing, because these are not specific to disability needs.
How does the NDIS support travel for people with disabilities?
While the NDIS does not fund general travel expenses, it may cover additional support required due to your disability, such as a support worker to accompany you.
What should I do if another government system covers a service I need?
If a service is covered by another government system (like healthcare or education), the NDIS will not fund it. You should access these services through the appropriate government channels, and the NDIS can assist with complementary support related to your disability.
