The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a transformative program designed to support Australians living with disabilities by funding services and products to enhance their quality of life. While many people are familiar with the primary supports available through the NDIS, such as personal care, therapy, and assistive technology, there are several lesser-known ways to utilise your funding. This article explores some surprising and underutilised items and services that NDIS participants can fund to improve their well-being and independence.
Keywords: NDIS funding uses, Surprising NDIS supports, Things NDIS can fund, NDIS funding for hobbies, Gym memberships NDIS, Cooking classes with NDIS, Household assistance NDIS funding, NDIS funding for driving lessons
Therapeutic Horse Riding
Therapeutic horse riding, also known as equine-assisted therapy, is a highly effective intervention for individuals with physical, emotional, or developmental disabilities. This therapy helps improve balance, posture, coordination, and emotional well-being. NDIS funding can cover the costs of such programs under the Capacity Building budget, specifically in the Improved Daily Living category (NDIS, 2024).
Cooking and Nutrition Classes
For participants looking to gain independence in meal preparation or improve their nutrition, NDIS funding can cover cooking classes or sessions with a dietitian. These services fall under the Capacity Building budget, helping participants develop life skills that enhance their ability to live independently (Choice, 2024)
Specialist Driving Lessons
Driving is a critical skill for many individuals seeking greater independence. NDIS funding can cover specialised driving lessons for participants with disabilities. These lessons focus on developing the skills required to drive safely while using vehicle modifications, such as hand controls or adapted steering wheels (NDIS, 2024).
Assistance with Household Tasks
While many people associate NDIS funding with personal care, it can also cover assistance with household tasks. This includes services such as cleaning, laundry, and garden maintenance to ensure a safe and functional living environment. These supports fall under the Core Supports budget and aim to reduce the stress of daily living for participants (My Plan Manager, 2024).
Support for Maintaining Employment
The NDIS recognises the importance of employment for individuals with disabilities. Funding can be used for employment-related supports, such as job coaching, workplace modifications, and training programs. These services help participants gain and maintain meaningful employment, contributing to their independence and financial stability (NDIS, 2023).
Therapeutic Supports Beyond Traditional Options
In addition to standard therapies such as occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and psychology, NDIS participants can fund alternative therapies, such as music therapy or even hydrotherapy. These therapies can be instrumental in improving emotional well-being and functional capacity (NDIS, 2024).
Travel Support
While the NDIS does not cover general travel expenses, it can fund supports related to travel that are disability-specific. This includes paying for a support worker to accompany participants on trips, or covering the cost of transport to attend appointments, work, or social activities. Travel support is typically provided under the Core Supports budget (NDIS, 2024).
How to Maximise Your NDIS Funding
To make the most of your NDIS plan, it is essential to:
- Understand Your Plan: Familiarise yourself with your plan’s budgets and categories to identify what supports are covered.
- Consult Your Planner or LAC: Your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIS planner can provide guidance on how to use your funding flexibly.
- Be Goal-Oriented: Ensure that your funding aligns with the goals outlined in your plan. This is a key requirement for accessing lesser-known supports.
Conclusion
The NDIS is designed to empower participants by funding supports that meet their unique needs and goals. By exploring the wide range of options available, participants can enhance their independence, well-being, and quality of life. Understanding these lesser-known uses of NDIS funding ensures that participants can fully utilise their plans while achieving their personal aspirations.
References
- Choice. (2024). How to Use Your NDIS Funding for Cooking and Nutrition Classes.
- My Plan Manager. (2024). Can You Use Your NDIS Funds for Household Assistance?.
- National Disability Insurance Scheme. (2024). Therapeutic Supports Explained.
- National Disability Insurance Scheme. (2024). Driving and Transport Supports.
Note: This article is intended to provide general information. For specific advice regarding NDIS plans, consult with your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator.
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