To help you live more independently, NDIS provides funding for various everyday essentials. It does this by assisting with the cost of everyday supplies that you need to manage your disability. These special supplies are known as NDIS consumables.

NDIS-consumables

What do NDIS Consumables mean?

NDIS Consumables is part of Core Supports. This is a budget category designed to help you with everyday activities and needs. It includes:

• Assistance with daily life (showering, getting dressed, etc.)
• Transport for community access
• Consumables
• Assistance with social and community participation

The NDIS Consumables budget is for everyday items that you might need to live more easily and safely. These things can be for:

• Showering, dressing, eating and cleaning
• Preventing bed sores or managing pain
• Managing bladder or bowel issues
• Getting the specific foods and supplements you need

Everyday consumables are considered a core need because they help you live more independently. Without these things, your daily life might be much more challenging.

What NDIS Consumables are covered by the scheme?

The specific items covered by your NDIS plan depend on your individual needs. Below are just some examples of what’s covered by the NDIS consumables budget.

• Continence products like adult diapers, pads, catheters or bed protectors
• Wound care, such as dressings, bandages, creams and tape
• Eating and drinking aids, such as special utensils, straws or adapted cups
• Daily living items for mobility, showering or dressing
• Low-cost assistive technology to help with hearing or vision
• Specialised food thickeners or supplements, if required by your disability
• Equipment for feeding through a tube
• Pillows and specialised mattresses for specific needs

What’s not included in NDIS Consumables?

Your NDIS representative is the best person to ask about what’s not included in NDIS Consumables. They can also explain what may need to be funded separately.  

But, in general, these items are not included:

Everyday household items:

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Utility bills (water, gas, electricity)
• General cleaning products

Prescription medications: These items are generally not funded by the NDIS but may be covered through other systems like Medicare or private health insurance.

Day-to-day living costs:

Items that everyone needs, regardless of ability, like:

• General groceries and food (unless prescribed nutritional supplements that directly relate to your disability)
• Toiletries like shampoo, soap, toothpaste
• Cosmetics

Non-disability-related health supports:

• Treatments or medications for conditions not related to your disability (e.g., diabetes medication if your primary disability is a physical impairment)
• General vitamins and supplements (unless prescribed by a health professional specifically for your disability)

Major assistive technology: Items typically costing more than $1500 often require separate assessment and funding under your NDIS plan.

Duplicate supports: The NDIS won’t fund items or services if you already receive them through a different government scheme or service.

These are just examples. The specific decisions about what is covered are made on a case-by-case basis. The best way to determine if something would be funded is to discuss your specific needs with your NDIS planner, support coordinator, or a registered provider.

Am I eligible for NDIS Consumables?

To be eligible to receive funding for NDIS consumables, you need to meet the following requirements:

• Have an NDIS Plan: The first step is to be approved for the NDIS program. Your plan outlines your goals and the supports you’ll receive NDIS funding for.
• Need the items because of your disability: Consumables must be directly related to the difficulties you face because of your disability.
• Your consumable needs are “Reasonable and Necessary”: This means the items will directly help you manage your disability and live a more independent life.

If you’re not sure if you qualify for NDIS Consumables, your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) can answer specific questions about your situation.

How can I add Consumables funding to my NDIS plan?

The best time to request a consumables budget is during your plan review meeting. This is when you discuss your current needs and goals with your NDIS planner. 

Be prepared to explain the specific everyday consumables you need. Written advice from health professionals, such as your doctor, can be helpful. They can provide evidence about how the consumables will benefit you.

The way you purchase NDIS consumables depends on your NDIS plan management.

NDIS agency-managed plans mean you can only purchase consumables from NDIS-registered providers.

Application process for NDIS Consumables

To apply for NDIS Consumables, follow these steps:

• Check eligibility: To qualify for NDIS Consumables, you need to be under 65 years old, have a permanent and significant disability, and meet residency requirements.
• Access NDIS: If you are already an NDIS participant, review your current plan to see if it includes consumables. If you are a new applicant, you can apply for NDIS access through the NDIS website or by calling 1800 800 110.
• Prepare for your planning meeting: Identify the specific consumables you need. Gather supporting documents from your healthcare providers.
• Have a planning meeting: During your meeting with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC), discuss your needs and present your supporting documentation.
• Wait for approval and implementation: Once your plan is approved, you can start using your NDIS funding to purchase consumables.
  • If you’re self-managed, you can purchase directly from any provider and pay with your NDIS funds. 
  • If you have a plan manager, they’ll handle the purchasing and payments.
• Review and update: Your needs may change over time, so it’s important to review your NDIS plan regularly.  

Get the most out of your NDIS plan with Mambourin. Our NDIS support team is here to provide expert guidance and connect you with the right services, including life skills development. Reach out to Mambourin at  9731 9200 or email us at hello@mambourin.org.