The following information is to provide you with examples of what the NDIS may fund. It’s important to note that this is only a guide to assist you make an informed decision. Only your My NDIS Contact, an NDIS Delegate, or the explicit written information in a current NDIS plan serves as the source of truth. The NDIS considers requests based on whether the support is related to your disability and whether it meets the NDIS Reasonable and Necessary Guidelines.
What are Household Related Consumables?
Household related consumables refer to assistive products that support NDIS participants to carry out domestic and everyday tasks safely and independently within their homes. These items are considered low-cost, low-risk supports that can be funded if they meet the participant’s disability-related needs and the reasonable and necessary criteria under the NDIS.
Low Risk (Typically Funded by NDIS)
The following items are generally considered low risk and may be funded through your NDIS plan if they relate directly to your disability and your goals:
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Assistive products for household tasks such as:
- ✅ Products for the preparation of food and drink (e.g., adaptive kitchen utensil)
- ✅ Products to assist with house cleaning, gardening, or laundry (e.g., adapted mops, gardening tools)
- ✅ Maintenance, spare parts, and consumable items specific to an assistive product already approved
- These supports are typically purchased from specialist disability stores.
Requires NDIS Approval
Some household-related consumables may require specific NDIS approval, particularly if they involve more specialised equipment or modifications. These may include:
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Assistive products for household tasks requiring professional assessment or modification, such as:
- ⚠️ Additional costs to upgrade or modify standard household items to include accessibility features that address disability needs (e.g., accessible kitchen appliances)
- ⚠️ Services to assess, prescribe, deliver, adjust, and train in the use of assistive products
- Items such as:
- ⚠️ Recliner or lift chairs
- ⚠️ Air conditioning (where related to disability)
- ⚠️ Therapeutic pillows
- ⚠️ Sewing machines for disability-related support
- Maintenance, spare parts, and consumable items for assistive products not previously approved by the NDIS may also require written approval.
Not Funded by the NDIS
The NDIS does not typically fund household items that are considered everyday living costs for the general community, items not directly related to a participant’s disability, or standard versions of products that do not include any necessary modifications. Examples include:
- ❌ Internet, landline, and mobile phone plans and data
- ❌ Water filters, purifiers, or aerators
- ❌ Standard household furniture and fittings (e.g., lounges, beds, fire alarms, blinds)
- ❌ Standard household appliances (e.g., dishwashers, fridges, washing machines, non-modified kitchen utensils)
- ❌ Cleaning and household products (e.g., detergent, garbage removal, utility bills)
- ❌ Security cameras, alarms
- ❌ Standard bedding, pillows, floor rugs
- ❌ General food preparation utensils unless specifically adapted for disability needs
- ❌ Postal services
- ❌ Replacement of standard household appliances (e.g., washing machines, vacuum cleaners, dishwashers, microwaves)
Key Points to Remember
✅ Household consumables funded by the NDIS must be related to your disability and assist you to pursue your goals, participate in daily activities, and increase independence.
❌ Everyday items or general household expenses are not considered reasonable and necessary under NDIS guidelines.
⚠️ The NDIS may consider funding a household appliance as a Replacement Support.