With the holiday season fast approaching, many participants and their families are considering how to celebrate Christmas and what to buy as Christmas gifts.

When it comes to NDIS funding, it’s important to be aware of what is and isn’t covered at this time of year. We created this guide to ensure there’s no confusion, and to help you have a happy, safe Christmas.

You can also find more of our holiday season tips here.

Gifts are not covered by the NDIS

While it might be tempting to claim Christmas presents and other gifts via NDIS funding, gifts typically aren’t covered by the NDIS. That’s because your plan covers supports relating to the disability, not additional items like Christmas presents.

But, if you’re on a budget, do not worry. We believe some of the best (and most meaningful) gifts are low-cost or homemade. Things like handmade cards, plants, upcycled goods, handcrafted artwork, or an act of service can be appreciated gifts.

A low-cost Secret Santa can also be a great idea, whereby every person only needs to purchase a small gift.

All NDIS claims must be reasonable and necessary

Keep in mind, around the Christmas season, as with all times of the year, anything you do claim under the NDIS must be considered ‘reasonable and necessary’.

Some questions you can ask to ensure your support is reasonable and necessary include:

1. Does this support relate to the disability? It’s important to remember, non-disability-related requests will not be covered by the NDIS.


2. Does this support help you achieve your goals? Any supports funded under an NDIS plan must also relate specifically to a goal in your plan.


3. Should this support be covered by the NDIS? The NDIS doesn’t cover all supports even if they relate to a goal in your plan. That’s because they may be better funded elsewhere.


4. Is the support value for money? The NDIA considers it important to use funding for supports that are value for money. If there’s a lower-cost alternative, then the support may not be funded.


5. Are there sufficient funds available in the plan category? To have a support approved there must be enough funds in the correct category to pay for it.


6. Do you have a supporting letter from a qualified and appropriate allied health professional? A letter can bolster your claim and help clarify how the item or service requested helps overcome the impact of the disability.

We’re here to help

Our friendly team is only a phone call away. We’re more than happy to answer any questions you may have to ensure you’re making the most of your plan.

Contact us today on 1300 60 33 89 or send us an email at [email protected]