Are you uncertain of what parts of transport NDIS funding support? Below is a comprehensive list of all the transport services you are able to access if you are a participant of NDIS. Say goodbye to the unreasonable fees of transport you must pay simply because of your disability. These fees being paid can rid you of the burden of having to worry about financials, allowing you to focus on doing what you want to do. However, it is important to note that you must fit the reasonable and necessary criteria for transport funding. For example, this would mean explaining why it is unreasonable and bothersome having to catch the train, tram or bus. You are able to figure out how much and what is necessary for you during your NDIS plan meeting.
Types of Transport funded
There are many transport types that can be funded by the NDIS. Some of these include:
- Training and support to use public transport
- Modification to private vehicles; inclusive of wheelchair ramps, machinery support into the truck, specialised/ altered controls for the vehicle
- Driver assessment and training
- Costs associated with taxis, private transport, innovative transport options
However, it is important to note that funding does not cover transport assistance for carers to transport family members with disabilities for everyday commitments.
Plan Meeting
To prepare for your NDIS funding plan meeting, make sure to consider some starting points which seem reasonable. These can be points such as:
- Brainstorming examples where you cannot physically travel independently
- Prepare yourself to talk about any personal related transport and equipment that you may require
- Suggest any training that you may require before using public transport
Plan managers are also capable in accessing a wide range of transport providers, inclusive of those who haven’t actually registered with the NDIS. They can also handle the financials of the transport arrangements, ensuring that you are able to stay under budget. If there is a support coordination in your plan, they can find and connect individuals with the best providers which match your specific transport needs.
NDIS Transport Funding Levels
It is important to note that there are different levels of payment for NDIS Transport funding. At times, there may be an exception where more money is received, although in most cases it is one of the three budget levels which fund for transport support.
TRAVELLING WITH A SUPPORT WORKER
You may also be able to receive funds to compensate for travelling with a support worker. This could include those who go:
- Shopping trips
- Social events
- Medical appointments
However, support workers may also charge you additional travel costs such as road tolls, parking tickets, tickets for public transport. Thus, it is important to chat to your social worker before, so that both parties are on the same page about the financials.
LEVEL 1
The participant receives a maximum of $1,606 per annum. Correspondingly, this is aimed at those who are not working, studying or attending any programs. However, rather they are seeking to enhance their community outreach and access.
LEVEL 2
The participant now earns up to $2,472 per annum, if they are currently working or studying part time (considered 15 hours per week). They are also taking part in day programs for social, recreational or leisure purposes.
LEVEL 3
The participant earns up to $3,456 per year if they are currently working, job hunting or studying a minimum of 15 hours per week. They are also unable to use public transport due to their disability.
Additional Services Systems Offered by NDIS fund
- Alternative and accessible public transport options
- Community transport services also readily available
- Concessions to aid the use of public transport, inclusive of those where a full concession fee is offered
- Transport infrastructure, such as road and footpath layouts. It is only when it is part of a universal service agreement, or required reasonable adjust- inclusive of managing disability parking and related issues/ initiatives
SCHOOL TRANSPORT
Transportation to and from schools is also a relevant part in some individuals’ life. All states and territories continue to maintain their support and funding to school transport for those who require it. These arrangements will remain how they are until further notice by the Senior Officials Working Group.
What To Do Now…
If you haven’t already, as a participant of NDIS, ensure that you check out if and what type of transport funding you are eligible for. This way, these supports will allow you to be fully supported as you travel around- not being impacted by your disability. Building independence is a key and very common NDIS goal, and being able to get around does truly play a large part in that. Thus, it is with great hope that the NDIS transport funding allowance makes life and getting around slightly easier for NDIS participants.