We’d like to provide some clarity around claiming massage support under an NDIS plan. Massage support is rarely funded by the NDIS because it is considered an everyday living expenses, which fall outside the scope of NDIS funding. There may be exceptions when the support is required for disability specific needs.
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 is Funded
The NDIS may fund massage therapy if the following conditions are met:
✅ Allied Health Professional, such as a Physiotherapist where massage is part of the therapeutic support provided for a direct disability-related purpose. This may include managing muscle tension, spasms or limited range of motion associated with conditions like cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries.
Supports That May Be Funded (NDIS Approval Required)
In the case of massage services, the NDIS may fund services only if they directly relate to disability support needs and meet the requirements under the NDIS Act and associated guidelines.
Examples of potentially funded professional services (subject to NDIS approval and plan inclusion):
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⚠️ The massage is for disability-related purposes. Examples include managing muscle tension, spasms or limited range of motion associated with conditions like cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries.The support meets the NDIS Reasonable and Necessary Criteria, including:
- Directly relating to the participant's disability.
- Being value for money.
What is Not Funded
Massage services that are not provided by an Allied Health Professional for disability-related purposes are generally not funded by the NDIS. These include:
- ❌ Relaxation massage
- ❌ Remedial massage
- ❌ Sports massage
These types of massages are considered general health, lifestyle or wellbeing services and are therefore outside the scope of NDIS funding.
Want an Excluded Support Funded?
If a participant wishes to access an excluded support, they have two options:
- Seek written approval directly from the NDIS.
- Request to have the support built into their plan during a plan review or reassessment.
Please note:
- Only a NDIS Delegate or My NDIS Contact can approve such supports.
- Plan Managers cannot provide this type of authority.
For further guidance, participants can contact the NDIS directly:
Visit: NDIS Contact Information