We’d like to provide some clarity around claiming professional services under an NDIS plan. Many services provided by qualified or experienced tradespeople, or those that require specialised equipment, are rarely funded by the NDIS because they are considered everyday living expenses or general home maintenance, which fall outside the scope of NDIS funding. There may be exceptions when the supports are required for disability specific needs, such as, NDIS approved home modifications.
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.
Supports That May Be Funded (NDIS Approval Required)
In the case of professional services, the NDIS may fund services only if they directly relate to disability support needs and meet the requirements under the NDIS Act 2013 and associated guidelines.
Examples of potentially funded professional services (subject to NDIS approval and plan inclusion):
- ⚠️ Home modifications with related professional services, such as, installing a ramp or accessible bathroom
- ⚠️ Specialised cleaning when linked to a disability, such as, infection control needs, outdoor window cleaning
- ⚠️ Pest control only where a participant's disability makes them particularly vulnerable to risks.
Refer to: Including Specific Types of Supports in Plans – NDIS Operational Guidelines
What’s Not Funded by the NDIS?
The following professional services are generally not funded, as they are considered day-to-day living costs that everyone incurs, regardless of disability:
❌ Professional Cleaning Services: Carpet Cleaning, gutter cleaning, roof cleaning
❌ Professional Home and Yard Maintenance: Builder, electrician, handyman services, home repairs, painting, plumbing, tree lopping
These services are considered part of general home upkeep and do not meet the criteria of being reasonable and necessary under the NDIS.
Refer to: Supports the NDIS Will Fund – Operational Guideline
Want This Support Funded?
If you believe a specific professional service is essential to managing your disability or safety, there are two main pathways to seek NDIS funding:
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Gain Written NDIS Approval:
You can request a review or submit an application for this support to be considered. This requires:- Contacting the NDIS directly via your My NDIS Contact or submitting a change of circumstances form.
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Get the Support Built Into the Plan:
- Work with your Support Coordinator or My NDIS Contact to have this service included in your plan during a plan review.
❗ Important: Plan Managers cannot approve or authorise funding for these types of services. Only an NDIS Delegate or My NDIS Contact can provide this authority.