🛍️ Can I Buy It? A Friendly Guide to Making NDIS Purchase Decisions

Welcome to ISM's Knowledge Hub! 👋

Today, we're exploring a super practical topic: how to decide if you can use your NDIS funds to buy a particular support or service. Whether you're managing your plan independently or seeking help from your Plan Manager, this guide will make those decisions a whole lot easier. Let’s dive into the seven key questions you need to ask before making an NDIS-related purchase:

1. Do You Need the Support Because of Your Impairment?

The NDIS exists to help you access disability-related supports. That means anything you purchase using your NDIS funds should directly relate to the impairments listed in your plan.

Ask yourself:

• Is this purchase linked to the disability impairments in my NDIS plan?

• Is it on the list of approved NDIS supports?

⚠️ Tip: NDIS funds can’t be used for general expenses or things that aren’t tied to your disability needs.

2. Is the Support Likely to Meet Your Needs?

Before committing to a support or service, it’s important to explore your options and choose what works best for you. The right support will enhance your quality of life and help you meet your goals.

Ask yourself:

• Have I explored different options or providers?

• Will this support help me achieve what I need effectively?

🛠️ Pro Tip: Take your time to research and find supports that fit your needs and preferences.

3. Is the Cost Reasonable?

NDIS is all about value for money. Compare costs and make sure you’re getting a fair deal for the benefits you’ll receive.

Ask yourself:

• Have I compared prices from other providers?

• Is there a more cost-effective option available?

• Does the benefit justify the expense?

💡 Budget Smarts: Saving on one support might free up funds for another important goal!

4. Can You Afford It Within Your Budget?

Your NDIS funds need to last for the entire duration of your plan. It’s crucial to ensure the purchase fits within your budget.

Ask yourself:

• How much of my budget is left for this category of support?

• Will I have enough funds for other essential supports?

• Can I sustain this purchase throughout the life of my plan?

📊 Budget Insight: Check in with your Plan Manager for a breakdown of your budget and spending.

5. Is It the NDIS’s Responsibility to Fund?

NDIS funding is specific to disability-related supports. Services like healthcare, education, or housing are covered by other government programs.

Ask yourself:

• Should another government agency provide this support?

• Is it specifically related to my disability needs?

🏛️ Key Insight: If the support falls outside NDIS responsibilities, you’ll need to explore alternative funding options.

6. Is the Support Safe?

Your safety and wellbeing are non-negotiable. Any support or service you purchase must meet safety standards and not pose risks to you or others.

Ask yourself:

• Does this support meet appropriate safety requirements?

• Will it be provided in a safe and professional manner?

✅ Safety First: When in doubt, consult your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator for reassurance.

7. Is the Support Legal?

All NDIS supports must comply with Australian laws. Make sure the provider is legitimate and the service or product is lawful.

Ask yourself:

• Is this support or service legal?

• Does the provider operate within the law?

🔍 Do Your Research: Double-check your provider’s credentials and compliance with regulations.

Making NDIS purchases can feel overwhelming, but this checklist simplifies the process:

1. Answer each question honestly.

2. If you’re unsure about anything, reach out for advice.

3. Only proceed if you can confidently answer “yes” to all seven questions.

4. Keep a record of your decision-making for future reference.

💡 Need Help?

• Contact your Plan Manager for budget advice.

• Talk to your Support Coordinator for guidance on suitable supports.

• Explore the NDIS website for more information.

• Always review this checklist before making a purchase.

• Keep evidence of your decision-making process for transparency.

• If you're making recurring purchases, revisit the checklist regularly to ensure they remain appropriate.