With the recent introduction of the NDIS Amendment Bill, there are several important changes being implemented through 2024 and 2025. These reforms are designed to streamline processes, ensure better resource allocation, and adapt the services provided to best meet participants’ evolving needs. One of the crucial aspects of these changes is understanding which therapies are covered under the updated rules.
Knowing which services you can access can significantly impact your ability to achieve your personal goals and maintain your quality of life. This guide will explore the approved therapies under the new regulations, what has changed, and how to ensure your therapy plan aligns with these updates.
Approved Therapies Under the Updated NDIS Rules
The updated NDIS rules have brought some changes to the range of therapies that are eligible for funding. Here is an overview of the therapies that are still covered under the amended guidelines:
Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy continues to be a key part of the NDIS, helping participants develop and maintain skills needed for daily living and community involvement. It aims to improve functional capacity and independence, whether through adaptive equipment, home modifications, or exercises tailored to an individual’s needs.
Speech Pathology: Speech therapy, or speech pathology, is also covered under the updated NDIS rules. This form of therapy is essential for individuals who face challenges with speech, communication, or swallowing. Speech pathologists can provide personalised treatment plans aimed at enhancing communication skills, which is a critical part of social interaction and overall independence.
Behavioural Support: Behavioural support services are aimed at those who require assistance with managing complex behaviours. These services continue to be funded under the updated rules, with a focus on supporting participants to engage more meaningfully with their environment and improve their relationships.
Physiotherapy, Psychology, and Other Therapies: Physiotherapy and psychology remain vital components of the NDIS. Physiotherapy helps participants address physical challenges that impact movement and mobility, while psychology services assist with emotional well-being and mental health challenges. Other eligible therapies include social work, dietetics, and exercise physiology, each of which plays a role in helping participants lead healthier and more autonomous lives.
New or Expanded Therapy Options: In response to the needs of the community, some therapies have been expanded to include additional forms of support. For example, the new rules may provide greater flexibility around group therapy options, which can foster social interaction and peer support, enhancing community participation.
These therapies are all designed to support participants in achieving the goals laid out in their individualised NDIS plans, such as increased community involvement, improved health outcomes, or greater independence in daily activities. These goals have become even more central under the updated NDIS rules, as the reforms aim to ensure that every funded service directly contributes to meaningful outcomes for participants. By aligning covered therapies with these revised priorities, the NDIS is focused on maximising the impact of support and ensuring that participants are receiving the most effective, evidence-based interventions available.
Changes to Previously Covered Therapies
While several therapies remain covered under the new NDIS guidelines, there have also been changes to what is considered eligible. Certain therapies that were previously available without stringent criteria may now have more defined limitations or may not be covered at all.
Therapies No Longer Covered OR with Modified Criteria: Therapies that fall under the category of complementary or alternative treatments (such as therapies like aromatherapy, equine therapy, or reflexology) may no longer be eligible for funding unless there is strong evidence to support their effectiveness for specific participants. These changes are part of an effort to ensure that NDIS funding is directed towards evidence-based therapies with clear benefits for participants.
Impact on Existing Therapy Plans: Participants currently receiving these therapies may need to reassess their plans and work with their healthcare providers to transition to services that align with the updated criteria. For example, participants who have used alternative therapies to complement traditional treatments may need to switch to other NDIS-approved services that offer comparable benefits. The goal is to ensure that all supported therapies contribute directly to the participant’s core NDIS goals, which focus on increased independence and social and economic participation.
Reasons Behind These Changes
The shift away from certain therapies is largely driven by the NDIS’s commitment to funding evidence-based practices. By focusing on therapies with a proven track record of improving functional outcomes, the NDIS aims to maximise the benefits for participants and ensure that funding is allocated effectively. This also means that participants may need to work more closely with their service providers to determine which therapies will have the most meaningful impact under the new guidelines.
Steps to Check if Your Therapy Plan Aligns with the New Rules
If you are currently receiving therapies through the NDIS, it is important to verify that your plan aligns with the updated rules to avoid disruptions to your funding. Here are some steps to ensure that your therapy plan remains eligible:
Review Your Current Plan: Begin by reviewing your current therapy plan to understand what therapies are included and how they align with your NDIS goals. Take note of any services that might be affected by the updated rules. It may be useful to ask yourself if each therapy is directly contributing to your overall goals, such as improving daily functional capacity or increasing community participation.
Consult Key Resources: The NDIS Participant Portal is a crucial resource for understanding what therapies are covered under your plan. Spend time navigating the portal, as it contains useful updates on therapy eligibility. Additionally, refer to service provider guidelines and fact sheets available through the NDIS website to get a clearer picture of the therapies that remain eligible under the new rules. It may be useful to bookmark important sections for easy access.
Engage with Your NDIS Planner or Support Coordinator: Your NDIS planner or Support Coordinator is an essential point of contact when reviewing your therapy plan. If you have concerns about your eligibility, consider scheduling a meeting to go over your current plan (ideally with all your supporting documentation ready). You can use this opportunity to clarify any doubts about specific therapies and inquire about possible alternatives if any therapies you are currently using are impacted by the reforms. They can also provide advice on how to adjust your plan to ensure it aligns with the updated NDIS regulations, including connecting you with resources or service providers.
Documentation & Evidence: Updated documentation is key to continuing your funding for certain therapies. Start by gathering recent medical reports, therapy progress notes, and any assessments performed by your service providers. Ensure these documents clearly outline how your therapies are contributing to your functional outcomes and quality of life. It’s helpful to have your occupational therapist, speech pathologist, behavioural support practitioner, or other healthcare professional write detailed reports that align with your NDIS goals, as this will strengthen your case during the review process. Consider keeping a folder (physical or digital) with all this information organised for quick reference.
Ensuring Continuity of Care Amidst the Changes
Changes in eligibility can feel overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to ensure continuity of care, even if your current therapy is no longer covered:
Transition to Approved Therapies: If a therapy you are currently receiving is no longer covered, work closely with your healthcare providers to identify an appropriate NDIS-approved alternative. Set up a consultation with your current therapist to discuss equivalent services that may address similar goals. For instance, if equine therapy is no longer covered, your therapist might recommend another type of behavioural therapy or a physical activity-based intervention that is still funded.
Find Qualified Providers: If your plan requires you to switch therapies, use the NDIS Provider Finder tool to identify qualified providers in your area. Make a shortlist of potential providers, and reach out to them to discuss their experience and approach to care. It may be helpful to ask for recommendations from other participants or your Support Coordinator to find a provider who understands your specific needs and goals. Also, ensure that any new providers are registered with the NDIS to guarantee that your therapy will be eligible for funding. At Therapy Partners, we support participants with occupational therapy, speech pathology, and behavioural support needs; so if you are seeking a provider across the Gold Coast, Brisbane or Ipswich area, speak with our friendly team today to get started.
Advocate for Your Needs: It’s important to advocate for your needs during this transition. Clearly communicate your goals and priorities with your NDIS planner, support coordinator, and therapy providers. If there are specific therapies that you feel are crucial for your progress, be proactive in gathering supporting documentation that shows why they are essential. This could include letters from your therapists, progress data, or examples of how the therapy has positively impacted your daily life. Be prepared to explain how each service contributes to your functional capacity and independence, and don’t hesitate to appeal decisions if you believe they do not reflect your genuine needs.
Navigating Your Therapy Plan in 2025
Staying informed about which therapies are covered under the updated NDIS rules is essential for making the most of the support available to you. By reviewing your current therapy plan, consulting with healthcare professionals, and working with your NDIS planner or support coordinator, you can ensure that your plan aligns with the new requirements and that you continue to receive the care you need. Remember, the sooner you assess your plan and make necessary adjustments, the more seamless your experience will be.
At Therapy Partners, we are dedicated to helping you navigate these changes confidently. Whether you need guidance on updating your therapy plan, understanding the new eligibility rules, or transitioning to new services, our team is here to support you every step of the way. We understand that navigating the NDIS can feel overwhelming, especially with new reforms, but our experienced therapists and coordinators are committed to ensuring you receive the best possible care. Don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance as you adjust to the updated NDIS landscape—together, we can ensure that you continue to progress toward your goals with the support you deserve and the peace of mind knowing you are not alone in this journey.
