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 Lifestyle Related Supports?
Lifestyle-related supports involve items, activities, or services that contribute to a participant's leisure, hobbies, and general lifestyle needs. To be funded by the NDIS, these supports must:
- Relate directly to the participant’s disability
- Be considered reasonable and necessary
- Be value for money and effective
What May Be Funded by NDIS?
✅ Supports related to exercise physiology or physiotherapy when they directly address the functional impact of a participant’s disability.
⚠️ Low-cost assistive technology that supports hobby or leisure activities may be funded if the item is specifically adapted for disability needs. This may require NDIS approval.
⚠️ In some cases, Pilates may be considered where it relates to disability and is included in the participant’s plan. NDIS Approval is required.
Note: All funding decisions are assessed on an individual basis, and prior approval may be necessary.
What Is Not Funded by NDIS?
The following are examples of lifestyle-related items and services that the NDIS does not fund as they are considered day-to-day living costs or not disability-specific:
❌ Standard Computers & Accessories: Regular computers, gaming consoles, accessories, and streaming service subscriptions.
❌ Musical Instruments & Music Production: Instruments, sound equipment, or related software for hobbies or personal enjoyment.
❌ Social Media Production Equipment: Devices and equipment for social media content creation.
❌ Non-Prescription Medicines & Health Products: Sunscreen, vitamins, weight loss products, sport supplements, and homeopathic remedies.
❌ Standard Recreational Equipment: Non-modified items like standard toys, balls, racquets, or fitness equipment.
❌ Gift Cards: Cannot be purchased using NDIS funds.
❌ Internet and Communication Devices: Internet modems, routers, landline and mobile phones, tablets, sim cards, and accessories are not covered.
❌ General Health Products: Items not directly linked to a participant's disability.
❌ Unlawful Products: Any consumables or products that are illegal or not in compliance with Australian law.
Helpful NDIS Resources:
Key Takeaway:
The NDIS focuses on funding supports that are directly related to the functional impact of a participant’s disability. General lifestyle expenses, personal hobbies, and non-disability-specific items are typically not covered.
If you are unsure whether a specific lifestyle-related item is covered, it is always best to check with your NDIS planner or refer to the NDIS guidelines.