Guide to NDIS consumables budget
Your NDIS funding is divided into various budgets, each tailored to support you in specific areas of your life. Understanding how these budgets function is crucial for maximising the benefits of your NDIS plan.
The NDIS consumables budget covers low-cost, essential items for daily living, such as continence products, wound care, and low cost assistive technology. Allocation varies based on individual disability support needs, and the budget is typically a smaller portion of Core Supports. For personalised advice, consult with an informed NDIS representative or plan manager.
As reputable NDIS providers, we have been in the game for a while and fortunately have a lot of experience with the fine details of how your plan can work for you. For that reason, we want to share all of our knowledge with our clients to help you get the most out of your plan and live as comfortably and happily as possible.
What is the NDIS consumables budget?
Whether you’re new to the scheme or switching over to self managed and getting yourself clued up on the intricacies of your plan, remember the age old proverb that ‘knowledge is power’. You’ll be more well off with as much information under your belt as you can consume.
The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) consumables budget is the funding provided to NDIS participants to purchase low cost, low risk items that assist you with everyday tasks and personal care for disability related needs. This budget is part of the “Core Supports” category in your NDIS plan.
What is the NDIS consumables budget for?
The consumables budget NDIS is designed to cover items that participants need on a regular basis and is typically quite flexible. It allows participants to purchase these items from either registered and unregistered providers as long as the items are considered reasonable and necessary to support your personal disability related needs.
Participants have different options for managing their NDIS consumables budget. They can choose to manage it themselves, choose plan management with a plan manager, or have the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) manage it on their behalf – this is called agency managed.
Self managed participants enjoy the greatest flexibility and independence, as they can directly control how and where they spend their funds. Additionally, for most consumables, there is no need to provide quotes or obtain prior approval as long as they meet the needs of your plan.
What can I buy with my NDIS consumables budget?
If you have received an NDIS consumables budget within your NDIS plan, you can purchase a variety of low-cost, low-risk items that assist with your daily living and care up to the cost of $1,500. Core consumables NDIS examples typically include:
- Continence products – Disposable pads and nappies, as well as bed and chair protection products, such as specialised mattresses and waterproof mattress protectors.
- Daily living aids – Eating aids like adapted cutlery, modified cups, food preparation products and non-slip mats. Grooming aids such as electric toothbrushes, adapted nail clippers, or bath brushes.
- Wound and skin care supplies – Bandages, dressings, and wound care kits. Barrier creams, and moisturisers for skin protection.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) – Gloves, masks, and hand sanitisers, particularly relevant for those with high care needs.
- Other personal care items – Incontinence wipes, gloves and hygiene products, and hair care products like no-rinse shampoos for those with mobility challenges.
- Low-cost technology – Technology aids for vision or hearing support, such as magnifiers or basic hearing devices. Tools for translating or interpreting support, including Auslan or sign language training resources.
You do need to consider that you cannot use your NDIS consumables budget for any of the items mentioned above or anything else if it is not related to your disability. You also can’t use your NDIS consumables budget on daily life items like general groceries, prescription medications, nutritional supplements and cosmetics.
If you’re not sure about some items that might be related to your disability, you can consult with your plan manager or area coordinator to check if it can be covered by this budget. Alternatively, health professionals such as your occupational therapist can help you assess your needs and guide you in determining the best use of your NDIS consumables budget.
[Tips & Tricks To Managing Your NDIS Budget]
How much can I get for my consumables budget?
The amount allocated to your consumables budget is flexible under the NDIS and is tailored to your individual needs and circumstances. While this budget is typically one of the smaller allocations within the Core Supports category, it plays a crucial role in covering essential daily living and personal care items.
The specific amount you receive in your NDIS consumables budget can vary significantly depending on factors such as your disability, the level of support you require, and how often you need certain products or aids. To get a clear understanding of how much you might be allocated and how best to utilise this budget, you are welcome to consult with a knowledgeable member of our Maple team. They can provide personalised guidance and help ensure you make the most of your NDIS plan.
How do I get the most out of my NDIS funding?
Maximising your NDIS funding requires careful planning, understanding your plan, and making informed choices. Start by thoroughly reviewing your NDIS plan to understand the specific budgets allocated to you, such as Core Supports, Capital Supports, and Capacity Building. Knowing what each NDIS budget covers will help you allocate funds appropriately and avoid overspending in one area while underutilising another.
To get the most out of funding, prioritise your needs and focus on disability supports that have the greatest impact on your daily life and long-term goals. Consider using self-management or plan management options, which offer greater flexibility in choosing providers and purchasing services. Regularly track your spending to ensure you’re staying within your NDIS budget and adjust your plan as your needs change overtime.
How can Maple help with NDIS funding?
This is where Maple can be a valuable partner. Maple’s team of knowledgeable NDIS specialists can help you navigate the complexities of your NDIS plan, ensuring you understand your funding allocations and how to use them effectively.
We can provide personal advice, help with budgeting and connect you to the right services and supports. By working with Maple, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your NDIS funding is being utilised to its fullest potential.
