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.
This guide provides an overview of sensory supports related to personal care and safety that may be considered under the NDIS. Sensory supports can assist participants with self-regulation, independence, and personal wellbeing.
What Sensory Supports Might Be Funded?
The NDIS may fund sensory items where they are directly related to a participant’s disability and support their functional capacity, independence, or safety in daily living activities. Below are examples of items and supports that may be considered reasonable and necessary:
✅ Low-Risk Supports (may be included if funding is available and criteria met)
| Support | Description |
|---|---|
| Noise Cancelling Headphones | Used for sensory processing needs (must be noise cancelling only, not for music). |
| Loop Earplugs | Sensory supports to reduce auditory overstimulation. |
| Time Timers | Visual disappearing timers to support transitions and independence in personal care routines. |
| Non-Slip Mats | Safety items such as bath or toilet mats to support fall prevention. |
| Visual Supports | Visual prompts such as stop/wait signs, safety stories, or schedules for personal care routines. |
Note: All items must be related to disability needs and not for recreation or general use.
What Requires NDIS Approval?
Some sensory supports may require specific written approval from the NDIS, such as:
| Support | Additional Information |
|---|---|
| ⚠️ Sensory Items (Tactile, Proprioceptive, Vestibular, Visual, Olfactory) | Many of these items are considered a day to day expense or not an evidence-based support and therefore requires evidence that these are disability related by the NDIS. This Includes items such as fidget toys, weighted blankets (age-appropriate), sensory mats, swings, lava lamps, aromatherapy aids, etc., where disability-related needs are confirmed. |
| ⚠️ High-cost or High-Risk Sensory Equipment | Items like specialised swings, sensory rooms, or custom-weighted products. |
| ⚠️ Complex Sensory Supports | Items that require assessment and prescription by an allied health professional (e.g., Occupational Therapist) to ensure safety and suitability. |
What is Not Funded by the NDIS?
The following items are typically not funded as they are considered everyday expenses, recreational, or not related to the functional impact of disability:
| Not Funded | Examples |
|---|---|
| ❌ Standard indoor/outdoor play equipment | e.g., standard trampolines, swing sets. |
| ❌ Weighted blankets for children under 6 years | Safety concerns and limited evidence base. |
| ❌ Lycra bedsheets | Unless specified as part of a prescribed sensory regulation strategy. |
| ❌ Standard sensory items | e.g., generic fidget toys, balls, massage balls, splash pools. |
| ❌ Non-disability-related sensory items | e.g., electric toothbrushes, standard sunglasses. |
NDIS will not fund items that are not reasonably and necessarily related to a participant’s disability support needs.
Key NDIS Guidelines & Resources
Additional Notes:
- Age Restrictions: Some sensory supports (e.g., weighted blankets) have minimum age requirements for safety.
- Therapist Involvement: Where items have higher safety risks or need individualisation, therapist involvement is essential.
- Reasonable & Necessary Test: All items must meet the NDIS criteria of being reasonable, necessary, and directly related to the participant’s disability.
If you need tailored advice on a specific sensory support item, consult with the participant’s Support Coordinator, Occupational Therapist or My NDIS Contact to ensure alignment with their NDIS plan goals and outcomes.