Transport and the NDIS

There are always appointments to attend, places to go, and people to see. Even during times of Covid-19 restrictions, there is still a need to travel. It’s important to seek services that are essential for health and wellbeing. If due to personal circumstances you cannot drive, the issue of transportation can be a tricky one. Sometimes people rely on family members to take them to appointments. Other times friends may offer to bring back a bag of groceries for them. However, long-term these are not ideal solutions. So, what options are out there to help you access transport?

Does the NDIS fund transport?

The NDIS recognises that not everyone has access to transport, and that transport is necessary to live an ordinary life. The NDIS does provide a general transport allowance. This is for eligible participants who have substantial difficulty using public transport due to their disability. For those who cannot take a bus or train, the NDIS can fund transport such as; a community bus for people with disability, a taxi, or another kind of transport. This funding may only be used for the transport itself. It may not be used to pay a family member to drive you around.

Other NDIS supports

Other supports funded by the NDIS include those which help you build independence through transport. For example, if you would like to learn to master any challenges that make independent travel difficult, the NDIS may provide funding for public transport training, or driving lessons.

The NDIS may also fund modifications to a private vehicle you regularly use for transport. The modifications would need to make it easier to access the vehicle, or operate it. Modifications also need to represent value for money. They are usually funded under Assistive Technology.

Travel with a care worker

The NDIS funds reasonable and necessary supports that help a participant reach their goals and objectives. This can include transport that supports your participation in the community, daily life activities, and social connections. Quite often, it’s practical to have a care worker travel with you to support your community involvement.  This type of funding is usually in your plan as Assistance with Social and Community Participation.

Navigating the NDIS

At Simply Helping we understand that navigating the NDIS can be overwhelming. There are a few ways the NDIS can subsidise transport options. If you would like some guidance, your local Simply Helping team is available and happy to lend a helping hand.

For more NDIS transport information, visit ndis.gov.au