Funding Changes for NDIS Supports: Official Update
New NDIS funding-use rules took effect from 3 October, with several cost categories no longer reimbursed and a 12-month transition period.
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What changed under the new NDIS funding rules
New funding-use rules for the National Disability Insurance Scheme took effect from 3 October, according to reporting by SBS. Under these rules, several categories of costs are no longer reimbursed, including everyday living expenses, travel and holidays, alternative therapies, and sexual services.
Which costs are excluded from reimbursement
The new funding-use rules explicitly list multiple types of expenses that will not be reimbursed. These include:
- everyday living expenses and miscellaneous costs
- travel and holidays
- alternative therapies
- sexual services
The reporting also notes that the new NDIS rules exclude several types of therapy programmes, including tarot card reading and game therapy.
What the transition period provides
To support the rollout of the new rules, authorities established a 12-month transition period. During this period, if a participant accidentally pays for a support that is not an NDIS support, and the amount is no more than AUD 1,500, they can access up to two no-repayment chances.
How the changes are being discussed
Reporting by SBS includes perspectives from local coordinators, industry figures, and families on the NDIS reforms. A family of a child with autism also shared their views on proposed NDIS reforms, with one comment suggesting that benefits may have been misused.
FAQ
What costs are no longer reimbursed under the new NDIS funding rules?
According to the new NDIS funding-use rules that took effect from 3 October, everyday living expenses, travel and holidays, alternative therapies, and sexual services are no longer reimbursed.
What happens if an NDIS participant accidentally pays for a non-NDIS support?
During the 12-month transition period, if a participant accidentally pays for a non-NDIS support and the amount is no more than AUD 1,500, they can receive up to two no-repayment opportunities.
Are any specific therapy programmes excluded under the new rules?
Yes, reporting states that the new NDIS rules exclude multiple types of therapy programmes, including tarot card reading and game therapy.