A Quick Guide to NDIS Consumables:
Understanding your NDIS consumables budget might seem simple at first, but it can become confusing when trying to differentiate between everyday items that qualify as consumables and those that don’t.
What Are NDIS Consumables?
Consumables are low-cost, low-risk items that assist in managing your disability-related needs in daily life. These items fall under your Core Supports budget, and each item must be under $1,500. You can find them in places like supermarkets, pharmacies, or online. Specialized items typically fall under Assistive Technology (Capital Supports).
There are rules about what can be considered a consumable, such as:
Groceries: General groceries aren't covered since they're an expense everyone must pay.
Nutritional supplements: These may be funded if PEG feeding is part of your plan and necessary for managing your disability.
Categories of NDIS ConsumablesConsumables funding, as outlined in the Assistive Technology, Home Modifications and Consumables Code Guide, is separated into three main categories:
Continence-related equipment
Equipment for eating and drinking
Disability-related health equipment and consumables
These categories offer guidance on what might be covered but aren't an exhaustive list. The flexibility of your consumables budget allows you to choose items that suit your needs.
What Can You Claim as Consumables?
The consumables you can claim depend on your NDIS plan and budget. If you have consumables as part of your Core Supports funding, any purchase must directly relate to your disability support needs. Common items purchased as consumables include:
Catheters
Continence products (pads, pants, mattress protectors)
Food preparation aids
Dexterity or mobility aids (e.g., bottle openers, grab bars)
Home enteral nutrition (HEN) equipment
Interpreting services (e.g., Auslan or video interpreting)
Nutritional supplements
Specialized footwear and orthotics
As long as these items comply with NDIS price arrangements and guidelines for "reasonable and necessary" supports, you have flexibility in spending your consumables budget.
Can I Buy Nappies with NDIS Consumables Funding?
Typically, nappies are not funded by the NDIS since they are considered a general expense. However, in some cases—such as for children with higher needs—there may be exceptions. Children under 9 years old can receive support through the NDIS Early Childhood Approach.
What Can’t You Claim as Consumables?
You cannot claim items unrelated to supporting your disability as consumables. This includes:
Toiletries
General food and groceries
Prescription medications
Gym memberships
Entertainment subscriptions
In some cases, you may need to provide additional documentation or a quote for more specialized items, especially if they are high-risk low-cost Assistive Technology.
How to Buy Consumables with NDIS Funding You can buy consumables from both registered and non-registered providers, depending on how your plan is managed:
Agency Managed: You can only purchase from registered NDIS providers.
Self Managed or Plan Managed: You can buy from non-registered providers, including general retail stores.
For all purchases, be sure to keep detailed records. This will help ensure your consumables funding lasts throughout your plan and is compliant during audits.
If you are uncertain whether an item qualifies as a consumable, ask your plan manager for guidance. It's part of managing your plan to ensure everything is in line with your NDIS requirements.
Let us know if you need help with NDIS funding!
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