Are you a person with a disability who needs help navigating the NDIS system? If so, it can be complicated to understand all your options.
Today in our helpful blog our care experts here at Devote Care will cover one of the most commonly asked questions: can NDIS pay for travel and transport?
We will help you have a better understanding of how this process works and the types of support available. Whether it’s taxi vouchers, home-to-school transport or multi-year trip planning.
So, keep reading to discover how we can help.
Can NDIS Pay For Travel and Transport in Australia?
Yes, the NDIS can pay for travel and transport services in Australia. This includes support to attend appointments or activities that are related to your NDIS plan goals.
Travel and transport services may include:
- Assistance with using public transport (e.g. buses, trams and trains)
- Travel training (learning how to use public transport independently)
- Taxi/uber fares for short trips (up to 20km)
- Transport assistance for longer trips (over 20km) – including hire cars, rental vehicles or a vehicle driven by a support worker or family member
- Vehicle modifications or specialist equipment such as hoists, ramps or seating systems.
You may also be eligible for support to access a private vehicle if public transport is not available. This can include assistance with fuel and ongoing maintenance costs.
You will need to discuss your travel and transport needs with your NDIS planner during the planning meeting, so that they can make sure that you have enough funds in your plan to cover the cost of these services.
Your planner will also check that you are receiving the right type of support to meet your individual needs.
How does it work?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme breaks down how they cover transport costs into two areas – General Transport Supports and Activity-Based Transport.
This can include trips related to both personal care as well as social, and therapeutic activities that help you reach more of life’s goals.
General support
If you are an NDIS participant and your disability means you can’t use public transport, there’s help available to get around.
You could be eligible for Transport support funding which would assist with getting a provider such as a taxi or Uber driver – to take the stress out of travelling alone.
Unfortunately, this money cannot go towards family members driving you instead and the allowance will depend on individual circumstances.
Activity based transport and travel
Don’t worry about arranging a ride to access necessary services or activities, NDIS has you covered!
Special travel expenses can include having someone accompany you on trips and driving from your home, whether it be for shopping, errands, social events or appointments.
Simply get in touch with an approved NDIS provider of your choice at an agreed hourly rate and they will take care of getting you there safe and sound.
NDIS does not cover some car costs
It’s worth noting that NDIS will not pay for costs related to the purchase of a car or other vehicle, such as registration and insurance fees.
However, they may be able to fund some motor vehicle modifications or specialist transport equipment if required.
NDIS may even be able to provide driving lessons tailored for those changes.
If you require assistance with travel and transport in Australia, then make sure to discuss your needs with your NDIS provider. They can help make sure that you get the support you need to get around safely and confidently.
Extra costs
Don’t forget about those extra costs your support worker might have such as parking fees, tolls or petrol.
You can now claim these as part of the funding for Community Participation Support in your plan (from CORE).
How can Devote Care help with travel and transport?
Travel and transport can be a challenge for people with disabilities, especially when they need to attend appointments or social activities.
Fortunately, as we have discovered, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may be able to help cover costs associated with travel and transport.
At Devote Care, we understand how important it is to get around, so we’re here to guide you through the process of accessing NDIS funding for your travel needs.
We’ll make sure you have all the relevant information about what NDIS covers concerning your circumstances.
We strive to make sure all our clients have the freedom and flexibility to go wherever they need to go, and when they need to get there. Devote Care can assist you with your NDIS travel and transport requirements.
With our help, you’ll be able to access the financial assistance necessary for your journey.
Let us help you plan, and make getting around easier than ever before.
Can NDIS pay for travel and transport in Australia? – To finish
Whether you require short or long-distance transport, we have the perfect solution for you.
Our experienced team of professionals will work closely with you to ensure your journey is tailored according to your individual needs.
In addition to providing transportation services, we also offer a wide range of other NDIS-funded supports.
For more information about our NDIS services or travel and transport solutions, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Our friendly team is always happy to answer any questions you may have and assist you in whatever way they can.
Give us a call today or book a free consultation to find out more.
