How to use NDIS funding for transport

Posted 1 week ago by David McManus

Getting out and about is such an important part of enjoying life and staying connected! [Source: romaset via iStock]

Transport should never be a barrier to living your life the way you want.

Whether you’re off to work, meeting up with friends, going to appointments or just doing some shopping, having reliable transport can really make a difference. That’s where the NDIS can be super helpful!

In this guide, we’ll take you through how NDIS transport funding works, who can benefit from it and how you can make the most of it.

What does the NDIS fund for transport?

The NDIS can help cover transport costs for people who can’t use public transport because of their disability. This might include:

travel to work or study;
getting to medical or therapy appointments;
attending community or social activities.

Depending on your needs, transport funding may be included under your Core Supports budget (specifically in the ‘Transport’ category).

Who is eligible for transport funding?

Not everyone on the NDIS automatically receives transport funding. It’s typically included if you’re unable to use public transport due to your disability or you don’t already receive transport support through other government programs

During your NDIS planning meeting or reassessment, be sure to discuss your transport needs. The level of funding you receive depends on how often you travel and the purpose of your trips.

Levels of transport support

There are generally three levels of transport funding, listed below.

Level 1: the NDIS may provide $1,784 each year for participants who are not working, studying or going to programs during the day, but still need community engagement.

Level 2: the NDIS may provide $2,676 each year for participants who are currently working or studying on a part-time basis (up to 15 hours per week).

Level 3: the NDIS may provide $3,456 each year for participants who are currently working, looking for work or studying at least 15 hours a week, if they can’t find appropriately accessible public transport.

Real-life example: meet Sarah

Sarah is 24 and lives with cerebral palsy; she uses a wheelchair and finds public transport difficult to navigate. Through her NDIS plan, Sarah receives Level 2 transport funding, which helps cover the cost of wheelchair-accessible taxis to and from her part-time job and physio sessions.

With the help of her support coordinator, Sarah arranged a regular transport provider and set up a simple tracking system for her trips. Now, she’s working with confidence and never has to worry about missing appointments.

Using your transport funding: your options

Once you have transport funding in your plan, how you use it depends on your management style.

Self-management means the funds go directly into your bank account and you pay your transport providers.
Plan management means your plan manager pays invoices from your chosen transport providers.
NDIA management means you can only use NDIS-registered transport providers and invoices are paid through the portal.

It’s important to keep track of your transport budget and make sure you’re using providers that meet NDIS guidelines.

Real-life example: Tom’s independence journey

Tom is 35 and has autism spectrum disorder. He recently started volunteering at a local community centre and, because he lives in a regional area with limited bus routes, Tom receives Level 3 transport funding. His support worker helps organise rides through a local community transport service. Thanks to his funding, Tom has become more independent and confident in getting around his town.

What’s not covered?

The NDIS won’t typically cover:

everyday transport costs for family members or carers;
fuel, car loans or regular vehicle maintenance (unless it’s related to an approved modification);
Uber, taxis or public transport costs if you’re able to use these independently without support.

It’s important to note that the National Disability Insurance Agency is updating the vehicle modification and access guidelines in the coming weeks and new information can be found online.

Tips for making the most of your funding

Keep records and log your trips or keep receipts if required.
Plan ahead and think about how often you’ll need transport each week.
Use a support coordinator to help you find the right providers and stay on budget.
Talk to your planner and be clear about how transport helps you achieve your goals.

Transport should never be a barrier to living your life the way you want. With the right support and a clear understanding of how your NDIS transport funding works, you can stay mobile, social and in control.

Have you modified a car or van for accessibility? Let the team at Talking Disability know and subscribe to the newsletter for more information, news and industry updates.