🤔 NDIS-Approved vs Non‑Approved Items: Clearing the Confusion

✅ What “NDIS-Approved” Really Means

There’s no universal list of “NDIS-approved” items. Instead, the NDIS evaluates each request based on whether a support:

• Is tied directly to your disability and goals

• Helps with independence, safety, or participation

• Is cost-effective and good value

• Isn't funded by other systems (e.g. Medicare, education)

• Has evidence showing it's effective

• Complements, not duplicates, other supports

• Is included in the NDIS’s official list of fundable supports (since October 3, 2024)

✅ Approved vs ❌ Not Approved — Side-by-Side

✅ Funded Examples:

• Communication support:
  iPad with a speech app for someone who is non-verbal

• Assistive technology:
  Robot vacuum to reduce reliance on cleaning support due to limited arm mobility

• Safety at home:
  Shower chair or grab rail to prevent falls

• Meal preparation support:
  Support worker to assist with meal prep if you’re unable to do it independently

• Mobility & guide dogs:
  Guide dog training and upkeep to support safe travel to uni or work

• Mental health & behaviour therapy:
  Psychology sessions for anxiety, trauma, or behavioural support

• OT assessments & modifications:
  Occupational therapy assessments for disability-related home modifications

• Travel support:
  Support worker hours during travel or STA (e.g. going on holiday with assistance)

• Modified vehicle:
  Funded if clinically justified by OT/medical reports

• Low-cost consumables:
  Adaptive cutlery, continence aids, non-slip mats, perching stools

• Nutrition supports:
  PEG feeding supplies and delivery of prepared meals (not food itself)

• Health-related equipment:
  Droplet-mode atomisers for disability-related respiratory issues

• Alerting devices:
  Doorbell alarms or safety devices for hearing or vision impairment

❌ Not Funded Examples:

• General tech:
  Standard iPad for entertainment or casual browsing

• Household items:
  Regular vacuum, microwave, or fridge for general use

• Home upgrades:
  Bathroom vanity or cosmetic renovations

• Groceries:
  Buying food or ingredients (even with a support worker)

• Pets:
  General pet costs (food, vet, toys, grooming)

• Lifestyle services:
  Life coaching, non-clinical wellness workshops, dating apps

• Furniture & decor:
  Standard chairs, sofas, home styling items

• Travel costs:
  Flights, hotels, activity entry fees

• Car running costs:
  Petrol, rego, standard servicing

• Beauty & hygiene:
  Makeup, perfume, or hygiene products not tied to a disability

• Standard food:
  Regular groceries or takeaway meals

• Appliances:
  Regular humidifiers or comfort-based devices

• Phone & internet plans:
  Not funded unless linked directly to a disability need

• Home décor:
  Rugs, artwork, cushions, curtains

🔧 Why Approved Might Differ by Person

• Person A benefits from an iPad with a speech app due to severe speech impairment—
  ✅ Funded.

• Person B wants an iPad for general browsing—
  ❌ Not funded.

Correct documentation from therapists and quotes are crucial to show why it's “reasonable and necessary”

🔄 Replacements & Exceptions

You might get funding for something on the “No List” if it replaces a funded item, meets all criteria, and:

• Costs the same or less

• Achieves the same outcome

• Directly relates to your disability goals ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au

For example, a robotic vacuum replacing a cleaner meets these conditions and can be approved.

✅ How to Tell What’s Approved

1. Check your goals — is the item disability-related?

2. Ask: Would I need it without disability?

   • If yes (e.g. internet, holiday), it's not approved.

3. Gather evidence & quotes for higher-cost items

4. Ask your Support Coordinator before buying

🛡️ Trustworthy Providers

Since October 2024, NDIA requires that funded supports be purchased from providers listed as offering approved supports. You can still use unregistered providers for certain items if you're self- or plan-managing—but be sure they’re legitimate

🗣️ Final Thoughts

• There is no one-size-fits-all list — it’s about your needs, goals, and evidence.

• Keep in mind value for money, cost-effectiveness, and documented disability links .

• If you're ever unsure, your MySupport Co. Support Coordinator is here to clarify or help you apply for replacement supports.