Understanding the Different Types of Care Funded by the NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plays a vital role in supporting Australians living with disability. One of the most common questions participants, families, and carers ask is: what types of care are funded by the NDIS?
Understanding the different types of NDIS-funded care can help participants make informed decisions, maximise their plans, and access supports that improve independence, wellbeing, and quality of life.
This guide explains the main types of care funded by the NDIS, how they work, and who they are designed to support.
What Is NDIS-Funded Care?
NDIS-funded care refers to supports and services that are considered “reasonable and necessary” for a participant to live safely, independently, and participate in everyday life. These supports are tailored to individual goals and needs and are outlined in a participant’s NDIS plan.
NDIS care can be delivered in the home, in the community, or in supported accommodation settings, depending on the level of support required.
Assistance with Daily Living
Supporting Everyday Independence
One of the most common types of care funded by the NDIS is assistance with daily living. This support helps participants manage routine tasks that may otherwise be difficult due to disability.
Daily living supports may include:
- Personal hygiene and grooming
- Meal preparation and feeding
- Household tasks such as cleaning and laundry
- Medication reminders
- Assistance with mobility around the home
These supports are designed to promote independence while ensuring safety and dignity. Care can be provided on a short-term, ongoing, or flexible basis depending on the participant’s needs.
Personal Care Supports
Dignified, Person-Centred Care
Personal care is a core component of NDIS-funded support, particularly for participants who require hands-on assistance. This type of care focuses on supporting personal needs while respecting choice and control.
Personal care supports may include:
- Showering and toileting assistance
- Dressing and grooming
- Continence care
- Support with transfers and mobility
NDIS personal care services are typically delivered by trained support workers and are tailored to the participant’s preferences, routines, and cultural considerations.
Community Participation and Social Support
Staying Connected and Engaged
The NDIS recognises the importance of social inclusion and community engagement. Community participation supports help participants build relationships, develop skills, and take part in social, recreational, and cultural activities.
Examples include:
- Attending social groups or events
- Support to access education or volunteering
- Assistance with hobbies and recreational activities
- Transport support to attend community programs
These supports aim to reduce social isolation and empower participants to live fulfilling, connected lives.
Allied Health and Therapeutic Supports
Building Skills and Long-Term Capacity
Allied health services are a key part of many NDIS plans. These supports focus on improving functional capacity, communication, mobility, and emotional wellbeing.
NDIS-funded allied health supports may include:
- Occupational therapy
- Physiotherapy
- Speech pathology
- Psychology and counselling
- Behaviour support
Therapeutic supports are often goal-focused and may be delivered in clinics, homes, schools, or community settings.
Supported Independent Living (SIL)
Care in Shared or Individual Living Environments
Supported Independent Living (SIL) is designed for participants who require regular support in their home environment, often in shared accommodation.
SIL supports may include:
- Assistance with daily tasks
- Overnight or 24/7 supervision
- Help developing independent living skills
- Support with routines and household management
SIL funding does not cover rent or utilities, but focuses on the care and support required to live safely and independently.
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Housing for Participants with High Support Needs
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) is funding for purpose-built housing for participants with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs.
SDA homes are designed to:
- Improve safety and accessibility
- Support specialised care delivery
- Enable long-term independence
- Reduce reliance on informal carers
SDA funding is separate from SIL and is only available to eligible participants who meet strict criteria.
Complex and High-Intensity Care
Support for Participants with Advanced Needs
Some participants require complex or high-intensity care due to medical conditions, behavioural needs, or multiple disabilities.
Complex NDIS care may include:
- High-level personal care
- Support for medical conditions
- Behavioural and psychosocial support
- Specialist-trained support workers
- Coordination with health professionals
These supports require detailed planning and skilled providers to ensure safety and quality care.
Respite Care and Carer Support
Supporting Families and Informal Carers
The NDIS recognises the importance of supporting carers. Respite care provides temporary relief for family members and informal carers while ensuring participants continue to receive quality care.
Respite supports may be delivered:
- In the participant’s home
- In the community
- Through short-term accommodation
This type of care helps maintain healthy, sustainable caring arrangements over the long term.
How NDIS Care Is Tailored to Individual Needs
No two NDIS plans are the same. The types of care funded depend on:
- The participant’s disability
- Individual goals and aspirations
- Functional capacity
- Living arrangements
- Informal support networks
Participants have choice and control over how, when, and by whom their care is delivered, whether through registered or non-registered providers.
Final Thoughts: Making the Most of NDIS-Funded Care
Understanding the different types of care funded by the NDIS empowers participants and families to make confident, informed decisions. From daily living support to complex care and supported accommodation, the NDIS offers a wide range of services designed to improve independence, wellbeing, and participation in everyday life.
If you are unsure what supports you may be eligible for, speaking with an NDIS planner, support coordinator, or trusted provider can help ensure your plan reflects your needs and goals.
