Sometimes, there might be a different item or service you'd prefer to use instead of something already funded in your NDIS plan. In some specific situations, the NDIS allows you to swap a support for another – this is called a replacement support.
What Is a Replacement Support?
A replacement support is an item, service, or piece of equipment that you use instead of one or more supports already approved in your NDIS plan. It’s not something extra – it’s a substitute that must meet specific rules to be approved.
What Are the Rules?
To be approved as a replacement support, it must:
Replace an existing NDIS support in your plan (not be additional)
Meet your disability support needs
Help you just as much – or more – than the original support
Cost the same or less than what it's replacing
📌 Important: Your total funding won’t increase – the replacement simply uses the same budget already approved in your plan. You will require capacity to pay for the item yourself and then be reimbursed as the NDIS will only pay for Replacement Items which has been approved and there is proof of payment.
What Can Be Considered a Replacement?
Only certain items can be considered as replacement supports. These include:
Standard household items (e.g. washing machine, dryer, dishwasher)
Smartwatches
Tablet devices
Smartphones
Accessibility or communication apps
If the item or service you’d like to use isn’t on this list, unfortunately, it can’t be approved as a replacement.
How To Apply For a Replacement Support?
If you’d like to request a replacement support, either you or your authorised representative will need to provide a few details to the NDIS.
What You’ll Need to Do
You can apply by:
Filling out the Application for a Replacement Support form on the NDIS website
Or, sharing the same details via email or phone
You can also call the NDIS directly on 1800 800 110 for help with your application
📋 What Information You’ll Need to Provide
When applying, make sure you include:
A description of the replacement support (what it is and how much it costs)
Which NDIS support(s) in your plan it will be replacing
Why you believe the new support will work the same or better for your needs
💬 Need Help?
If you’re not sure whether something you’re considering can be approved as a replacement support, please reach out to the NDIS directly.