Planning a holiday is exciting for everyone, and if you're an NDIS participant, you might be wondering how your plan can support your travel dreams.

Whether you're dreaming of a beach getaway, visiting family interstate, or exploring somewhere new, understanding what the NDIS can and can't fund for holidays will help you plan the perfect trip.

Does the NDIS fund holidays?

Let's start with the most common question: will the NDIS pay for your holiday?

The straightforward answer is that the NDIS does not fund holidays themselves.

However, this doesn't mean you can't use your NDIS funding to help make your holiday possible. The key is understanding what's covered and what's not.

The NDIS will fund supports that are directly related to your disability and considered reasonable and necessary under your plan.

This means that while the scheme won't pay for your flights, accommodation, meals, or entertainment (costs that everyone pays when they travel), it can potentially cover the disability-related supports you need while you're away.

What NDIS holiday costs can be covered?

Think about your holiday this way: the NDIS can help fund the extra costs you incur specifically because of your disability. This might include:

Support worker costs: If you need a support worker to accompany you, their time can be funded through your Core Supports budget, typically under "Assistance with Social and Community Participation." This covers their hourly rate for the support they provide during your trip.

Accessible accommodation upgrades: If you need to pay extra for an accessible room or modified accommodation due to your disability, these additional costs may be covered.

Accessible transport: The difference in cost between standard transport and accessible transport options, such as hiring a modified vehicle, may be funded.

Specialised equipment: If you need to transport disability-related equipment and incur excess baggage fees or special freight costs, these expenses might be covered.

Transport assistance: Depending on your plan, you may have access to transport funding to help you get to and from activities during your holiday.

Understanding the "$15,000 NDIS holiday" myth

You may have heard about a "$15,000 NDIS holiday" and wondered what it means. This is actually a common misconception about Short Term Accommodation (STA) funding, also known as respite funding.

STA funding is designed to cover the cost of a participant's care in another place for up to 14 days at a time.

It's intended for respite care when your usual support network is unavailable, or to help you try new experiences and build independence. While STA can provide a welcome break for both you and your carers, it's not the same as holiday funding.

The availability and amount of STA funding varies based on your individual circumstances and plan. If you think STA might be relevant to your situation, discuss it with your planner, Local Area Coordinator (LAC), or support coordinator.

Planning your NDIS-supported holiday

Before you book anything

The key to a successful NDIS-supported holiday is planning ahead. Here are the essential steps to take before you start booking:

Review your plan goals: Make sure your holiday aligns with the goals in your NDIS plan. If your plan includes goals around social participation, community connection, or building independence, a holiday might support these objectives.

Check your budget: Look at your Core Supports budget to see what funding you have available. Support worker costs will typically come from this category.

Talk to your support team: Speak with your plan manager, support coordinator, or LAC early in the planning process. They can help you understand exactly what can be claimed and ensure you're not caught off guard by unexpected costs.

Calculate realistic costs: Work out how many hours of support you'll need each day and what that will cost. Remember that having around-the-clock support can quickly use up your funding, so it's important to find ways to keep costs manageable.

If you're taking a support worker

If you're planning to bring your own support worker on holiday with you, open communication is essential. Before you commit to any bookings, discuss these important details:

Sleeping arrangements: Where will your support worker stay? Will they have their own room and bathroom, or will they need to share space?

Work hours and downtime: What will their daily schedule look like? It's important to allocate some free time for your support worker, especially on longer trips, so they can rest and recharge.

Meals: Will your support worker eat with you, or will they need to arrange their own meals? Who will cover the cost of their food?

Tasks and responsibilities: Clarify what you'll need help with during the trip, including any tasks that might be different from your usual routine.

Rates and payment: Discuss how the support worker will be paid for the holiday. Rates might differ from usual fees, particularly if the trip falls over weekends, public holidays, or involves additional responsibilities.

Get it in writing: Create a service agreement or get a quote that outlines all these details. This protects both you and your support worker and prevents any surprises or awkward conversations during the trip.

Smart ways to maximise your holiday budget

Having a support worker with you 24/7 can be expensive, but there are several strategies to help you make your funding go further:

Find local support workers

If you're travelling away from home, consider connecting with support workers in your destination. This can save you the cost of paying for your regular support worker's travel, accommodation, and meals, as well as any overtime or travel time charges.

Like Family makes it easy to find experienced support workers in locations across Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia. You can search by location, experience, and interests, and even chat with potential support workers before your trip to make sure you'll get along.

Consider group travel

Travelling with others who also need support can help you share the costs of support workers. Many NDIS providers specialise in organising group holidays for people with disability, which can offer great value while also providing opportunities to meet new people.

Plan strategically

Think about when you'll need the most intensive support and when you might be able to manage with less. For example, you might need help getting ready in the morning and settling in at night, but feel comfortable with less support during certain daytime activities if you're with family or friends.

Travelling overseas with NDIS support

Planning an international adventure? Overseas travel with NDIS support comes with additional considerations.

If you're bringing your own support worker, you may be able to use your NDIS funding for up to six weeks abroad. However, everyone's circumstances are different, so it's crucial to discuss your plans with your plan manager or support coordinator well in advance.

If you need to hire a support worker who isn't based in Australia, you can typically still use your NDIS funding. Since they won't have an Australian Business Number (ABN), you'll likely need to pay them directly and then claim the costs back later. Keep all receipts and documentation to make the claims process smoother.

For participants with NDIA-managed funding, overseas travel can be more complex. You're required to use registered NDIS providers, which limits your options for support overseas. Some registered providers offer organised international travel experiences, so it's worth exploring these options if you have NDIA-managed funding.

Aligning your holiday with your NDIS plan

To ensure your holiday expenses can be claimed through your NDIS plan, the trip should relate to your goals. Here are some ways your holiday might connect to your plan objectives:

• Social participation goals: Reconnecting with family and friends, meeting new people, or engaging in group activities
• Community involvement: Experiencing new communities and environments
• Independence skills: Navigating travel, managing in new situations, and building confidence
• Health and wellbeing: Rest, relaxation, and mental health benefits
• Skills development: Learning to plan trips, manage budgets, or communicate in new settings

When you discuss your holiday plans with your support team, be clear about how the trip relates to your plan goals. This makes it much easier to justify the expenses and ensure smooth claiming.

Making your holiday a reality

The thought of planning an NDIS-supported holiday might feel overwhelming at first, but with the right preparation and support, it's absolutely achievable. The key is to start planning early, communicate openly with your support team, and be clear about what you need.

Remember, the goal of your NDIS plan is to help you live your best life and pursue your goals. For many people, that includes the opportunity to travel, explore new places, and create lasting memories. With careful planning and the right support, your holiday dreams can become reality.

Whether you're planning a weekend escape, a family reunion interstate, or an overseas adventure, taking the time to understand how your NDIS funding can support you makes all the difference.

Start the conversation with your support team today, and take the first step toward your next great adventure.

Need help finding support for your next trip?

At Like Family, we connect NDIS participants with experienced support workers across NSW, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia. Whether you need someone to accompany you on a holiday or support you in trying new experiences closer to home, we're here to help you find the right match.

Get in touch with us today to start planning your next adventure.

For Australians living with a disability, or the family members supporting them, there’s often a feeling that you need to “just get on with it” when dealing with the difficulties you face every day. You find ways to adapt, rely on family members for extra help, and slowly adjust your life to accommodate the challenges you face.

But there is a big difference between coping and thriving.

If you have been wondering if life has become harder than it needs to be, or if you’ve been on the fence about applying for the NDIS because you aren’t sure if you are "eligible enough," Like Family is here to help you understand what you need to consider before applying for NDIS funding.

Don’t delay seeking support

One of the most common reasons people delay seeking support is that they normalise their struggle. When you live with a condition every day, you might stop noticing that simple tasks like showering, cooking dinner, or popping down to the shops are taking you twice as long as they used to.

You might tell yourself, "I can still do it, so I don't need help."

But the NDIS isn't just about what you can’t do; it’s about what’s called “functional capacity”.

Functional capacity assesses whether you rely on another person for help, need specific equipment, or if tasks take you significantly longer than someone else your age.

If any of those apply to you, you may be eligible for NDIS funding.

Three signs it might be time to explore your options

While every disability is unique, there are three common "zones" where the need for support usually shows up first.

1. Your physical world is shrinking: Is it getting harder to leave the house? Maybe getting ready in the morning leaves you so exhausted that you don’t have the energy to see friends later. If you are avoiding community activities or struggle to move around your home safely, this is a key sign that support could restore your independence.
2. “Life admin” is piling up: Sometimes the barrier isn’t physical. If you (or your loved one) are finding it increasingly difficult to understand instructions, manage money, plan the week, or remember important appointments, this falls under "cognitive" support. If you require someone else to keep your life on track, it might be time to formalise that support.
3. You are feeling isolated: Social wellbeing is just as critical as physical health. If a disability is making it difficult to control emotions, understand social cues, or make friends, you might find yourself withdrawing from the world. Support workers (like our team at Like Family) are often used specifically to help bridge this gap and get you back into the community.

The easy way to check your eligibility

The world of government funding and the NDIS can be confusing. There are rules about age, residency, and the permanency of your condition that can make the application process feel daunting.

You shouldn’t have to guess whether it’s worth the paperwork.

We have created a simple flowchart to help you figure it out in less than two minutes.

It’s a visual guide that walks you through:

• The basic eligibility rules.
• The "Functional Impact" checklist.
• Your likely next steps.

Stop wondering and start your journey toward better support today.

You've found an amazing carer through Like Family, you've built a genuine connection, and maybe you're thinking about continuing that relationship off-platform to save a bit on fees.

It may make sense on the surface, but before you make that move, let's talk about what you might be giving up.

This isn't about keeping you locked in. It's about making sure you understand what protection, support, and peace of mind actually look like when things don't go to plan.

The value of staying on-platform

We built Like Family to connect locals who care with people in need. We believe that finding great care shouldn't mean sacrificing safety, support, or your peace of mind. Here's what staying on-platform actually gives you:

Safety and trust you can count on

Every carer on Like Family goes through a thorough screening process, including NDIS Worker Screening Checks, reference checks, and ongoing quality monitoring.

Off-platform, you'd need to personally verify qualifications, conduct police checks, and check they are properly insured. You also need to keep all of this up to date yourself.

Community support when you need it

Being on-platform means you're never alone in this journey. You have access to our support team, resources for both carers and members, and a community of people who understand aged care and disability support. We're always just a message or phone call away.

Legal compliance without the headache

Whether it’s understanding NDIS regulations or insurance obligations, staying compliant as a social carer can be complicated. When you're on-platform, we handle all of this for you and your carer.

The reality of going off-platform

We know cost matters, especially when you're managing NDIS funding carefully. But by connecting with carers off the Like Family platform, you open yourself up to risks and challenges.

When things go wrong, there's no safety net

If your carer can't make it one day, gets sick, or needs to move on, you're suddenly scrambling to find replacement care on your own. By using the Like Family platform, we can help you find replacement care quickly should something happen with your regular carer.

There's no one to turn to if you have a problem

If you end up in a disagreement about hours, payment disputes, or concerns about care quality with a carer off-platform, these become personal conflicts with no neutral party to help resolve them. By remaining connected through Like Family, our team can step in to mediate and find solutions that work for everyone.

Insurance and liability sit squarely on your shoulders

Sometimes accidents happen, but if you aren’t working through Like Family when something occurs, you could be personally liable. That could be your carer getting injured in your home, or an incident during an outing, but either way, it’s a risk many people don't fully understand until it's too late.

What being NDIS-registered actually means

You might hear carers say they can work "independently" with NDIS clients. While this is technically possible, it's important to understand what this means.

NDIS-registered providers like Like Family have:

• Robust quality and safeguarding systems that are independently audited
• Group Personal Accident and Public Liability insurance that protects both you and your carer
• Incident reporting and management processes if something goes wrong
• Formal complaint resolution procedures that are fair and transparent
• Ongoing compliance monitoring to ensure standards don't slip

An individual carer, even with an NDIS Worker Screening Check, doesn't have these protections in place. They might be wonderful people providing excellent care, but without the infrastructure around them, you're taking on significantly more risk.

The potential risks of independent care arrangements

While private arrangements with independent carers can work in certain situations, it's important to understand there are risks.

Without clear contracts and invoicing systems, payment disputes can damage relationships and leave you without care. You may end up pressured to pay cash or struggle to get receipts for their NDIS claims, for example.

Great care relationships are warm and genuine, but they also need healthy boundaries. Off-platform, these boundaries can blur, leading to situations that feel uncomfortable but are hard to address directly. And when there's no one monitoring care quality or providing professional development, standards can drift.

Finally, sometimes life gets in the way. Carers get sick, move house, or need to change their availability. On-platform, we help you transition smoothly to backup or new carers. Off-platform, you're starting from scratch every time.

Making the choice that's right for you

Like Family has always been committed to offering simple, affordable rates below the NDIS Price Guide. Our platform's flat-rate fees enable social carers to earn competitive rates, while covering essential operating costs of our digital platform – including insurance and compliance.

We're committed to keeping our costs reasonable while maintaining the quality and safety you deserve.

Ultimately, this is your decision. We trust you to make the choice that works for your situation, your budget, and your needs.

But if you're considering going off-platform, we'd love to chat first. Sometimes there are solutions we can explore together, like finding different funding options within your NDIS package, or connecting you with financial counselling resources.

And if you've already moved off-platform and you're realising you miss the support? We're here. Come back anytime. There's no judgment – just a genuine desire to support you in the way you need.

Let's talk

Got questions about staying on-platform? Wondering about your specific situation? We're here to help you think it through.

Reach out to our support team anytime via hello@likefamily.com.au or call 1800 545 332. We're not here to give you a hard sell, just honest answers about what protection and support actually look like in practice.

Great care isn't just about the person providing it. It's about having the right systems, support, and safety nets around that relationship so it can flourish – for the long term.

As a Like Family carer, you might need to help a member get to appointments or run errands. If you're transporting a member who has a disability parking permit, you're able to use their permit on your vehicle during your booking.

Here's what you need to know to use disability parking permits correctly and confidently.

What you need to know about disability parking permits

Australian disability parking permits are recognised nationally, giving holders important parking concessions that make getting around easier. When you're providing transport to a member as part of your booking, you can display their permit on your vehicle.

No matter which state you're in, these permits open up two key possibilities: parking in designated disability spaces (marked with the international symbol of access), and parking longer than usual in metered, government-managed spaces. How much longer will depend on where you are in Australia, which we'll explore below.

Importantly, though, the permit can only be displayed when you're actually transporting the member it was issued to. Make sure it's clearly visible from outside the vehicle, with the permit number and expiry date easy to see.

State-by-state: What happens in your area

Different states offer different concessions, so it's worth knowing what applies in your area.

New South Wales

NSW carers can enjoy some of the most generous concessions. If you're in metered or ticket parking areas managed by the council or on-street, you can park for free.

Time-limited spaces become much more flexible, too. When you see a sign showing more than 30 minutes, you can park as long as you need. With a 30-minute parking sign, you will have up to two hours. Even those ultra-short limits of less than 30 minutes extend to a full half hour with the disability permit.

There's also a practical concession for No Parking zones. While you can't leave the vehicle there, you can stop for up to five minutes to help your member in or out of the car, or to load and unload their belongings. You must stay within three metres of the vehicle during this time, though.

Private car parks operate differently. The permit won't give you free parking or extended time in places like shopping centres with boom gates. You'll still need to pay any fees and follow time limits, though you can absolutely use the designated disability spaces.

Victoria

Victoria keeps things straightforward. You can park in accessible bays for whatever time is shown on the sign, or use standard parking bays for double the displayed time limit.

What you can't do is park in restricted areas like Clearways, No Stopping or No Parking zones, Taxi areas, Bus Zones, or spots reserved for residents. The permit also doesn't provide free parking, where fees normally apply.

Queensland

Queensland takes a generous approach to on-street parking. Permit holders can park for free at any on-street metered or regulated parking area. The time extensions are straightforward: if the posted limit is less than 30 minutes, you can stay for up to 30 minutes. If it's 30 minutes or more, you can stay as long as needed. And naturally, you can use any on-street or off-street disability bays marked with the international symbol.

South Australia

South Australia extends time limits in a graduated way based on what's posted. Signs showing less than 30 minutes, give you 30 minutes. If the limit is between 30 minutes and an hour, you get two hours. And for anything over an hour, you can stay for double the posted time. This makes it easy to calculate how long you can support your member during your visit.

Getting it right

If you intend to use your member’s disability parking permit, you must use it correctly.

Only display the permit when the member is actually in the vehicle or when you're in the process of picking them up or dropping them off.

Position it clearly so the number and expiry date can be seen from outside, which helps avoid any confusion with parking officers.

It's worth checking the expiry date before you head out, and taking a moment to familiarise yourself with the specific rules in your state will make each outing smoother and more confident.

Need More Details?

For comprehensive information about disability parking in your state, see these official resources:

• New South Wales
• Victoria
• Queensland
• South Australia

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Remember: Using a disability parking permit correctly isn't just about following the rules, it's about ensuring your member has the dignity, comfort, and accessibility they deserve when getting around their community. If you're ever unsure, don't hesitate to ask the Member or check with your local council.

Do you have questions about supporting members with mobility needs? We're here to help.

Become a support worker with Like Family

Like Family is a proud NDIS provider helping Australians with disability to access quality social and community support.

We have a network of over 3,200+ support workers (who we call Social Carers) who help NDIS participants to increase their independence, participate in the community, and enjoy life to the fullest.

We believe in creating meaningful, long-lasting connections. That's why we're dedicated to matching support workers with the right participant based on age, location, support experience, interests and much more.

Many NDIS participants prefer receiving support from familiar faces – their family members and close friends. This preference for family support services is completely natural, raising the common question: "Can I use my NDIS funding to pay family members for care?"

The short answer is no – in most cases, NDIS funding cannot be used to pay family members. While there are rare exceptions (which we'll cover below), the NDIS generally maintains strict guidelines around family member payments.

The difference between formal and informal support

What is formal support?

Formal support refers to professional services provided by qualified individuals or registered organisations outside your family circle.

These services are funded through schemes like the NDIS and include support workers who assist with daily living tasks like meal preparation, personal care, and household activities, as well as allied health professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech pathologists.

What is informal support?

Informal support (also called unpaid support or family support services) is the natural assistance provided by family members and relatives, friends and personal networks, and community groups and volunteers.

During your NDIS planning meetings, your planner will ask about your existing informal support network. This helps identify gaps where formal support might be needed, while recognising that both types of support are essential for your wellbeing and independence.

Common examples of informal family support

Informal support is part of everyday family life and includes activities like assistance with personal care provided by family members at home, learning support from siblings using new communication devices or technology, transportation from friends to medical appointments, skill development assistance from community group members, and emotional support and companionship from your personal network.

These relationships are built on love, understanding, and established trust, making them invaluable to your overall support system.

Why doesn't the NDIS usually pay family members?

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has established these restrictions for important reasons. Paying family members can potentially limit your ability to make independent decisions about your care, which contradicts core NDIS principles of participant empowerment.

Family payment arrangements can sometimes hinder the natural progression toward greater independence and may increase vulnerability to exploitation.

When family members have financial stakes in your care, it can create tension between their economic interests and your best interests.

Additionally, turning family caregiving into paid employment can strain personal relationships and reduce opportunities for natural family respite. The NDIA also aims to ensure all paid support meets professional standards and accountability measures.

What circumstances allow for informal support?

While uncommon, the NDIA may approve family member payments in specific situations. These include when there's risk of harm or neglect and family care is the safest option, when cultural practices or religious requirements necessitate family-based care, or when geographical isolation prevents access to other support services.

The NDIA may also consider family payment when you have strong views about privacy that family members can best respect, or when all other suitable options have been thoroughly explored and deemed inappropriate.

If a family member is approved as a paid support worker, it's important to note that they must meet the same standards as any other support worker, including NDIS registration requirements if you're agency-managed.

Alternative support options

Instead of family members, consider registered NDIS providers who can provide professional, trained support while offering your family natural respite opportunities.

Professional support workers can help develop your independence skills and maintain appropriate professional boundaries that family relationships might complicate.

Like Family is a registered NDIS provider specialising in respite support for primary carers, social and community participation programs, independence skill development, and relationship building opportunities.

Our rigorously vetted support workers hold NDIS Worker Screening Clearances and can be matched based on your location, age preferences, and specific support needs.

Making the right choice for your situation

While family support is incredibly valuable, professional support workers can complement your informal network by bringing specialised skills and training, providing objective professional perspectives, offering scheduled reliable support, and allowing family members to maintain their natural caring relationships without financial complications.

Ready to explore professional NDIS support options? Get in touch with us today and let us help you find the right support for your needs.

Parenting brings unique joys and challenges, particularly when your child faces developmental delays or disabilities. The NDIS Early Childhood Approach (ECA) provides crucial early intervention support to help children reach their full potential.

This guide is designed to explain everything you need to know about accessing ECA services and how Like Family can support your family's journey.

What is the Early Childhood Approach (ECA)?

The Early Childhood Approach is the NDIS framework supporting children under 9 years old who have developmental delays, disabilities, or developmental concerns.

On July 1, 2023, the NDIS changed the early childhood approach to include children younger than 9, expanding from the previous age limit of 7 years.

This ensures children and their families are supported by an early childhood partner during and after they transition to primary school.

Unlike traditional NDIS pathways, the ECA takes a different approach. It emphasises family-centred support that recognises parents as experts on their children.

The approach builds on existing strengths and capabilities rather than focusing solely on disabilities or delays, with support integrated into everyday community settings like childcare centres and playgroups.

Most importantly, targeted early intervention strategies are designed to maximise developmental outcomes during these critical formative years.

What is the difference between ECA and NDIS?

ECA and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are both integral elements of Australia's disability support framework, although they cater to different needs.

The Early Childhood Approach specifically serves children under the age of 9, focusing on learning difficulties or children with disability, with an emphasis on early intervention. On the other hand, NDIS offers broader and ongoing support to individuals aged 7 and above, supporting them throughout their lifetime.

Early connections, part of Australia's early childhood approach, assists children under 9 with developmental delays or disabilities and their families. Children don't need a diagnosis to access these services, which provide information, support, and connections to mainstream and community services. Even without NDIS eligibility, children can benefit from early connections, and they can access these supports through healthcare or education professionals or directly through an Early Childhood Partner, without needing a referral or diagnosis.

Who is eligible for the Early Childhood Approach?

Age requirements

• Under 6 years: No diagnosis is required –  concerns about development are sufficient
• 6-9 years: May require disability diagnosis or significant developmental delay evidence

Developmental areas covered

Your child may benefit from NDIS early intervention if they experience challenges with:

• Communication and speech development
• Physical development and motor skills
• Social and emotional development
• Cognitive development and learning
• Daily living skills and independence
• Behaviour and self-regulation

No diagnosis? No problem

If your child is younger than 6, you do not need a diagnosis from your doctor to access support through the early childhood approach. The focus is on your child's individual needs and how support can help them participate in family and community life.

What types of Early Intervention supports are available

Early intervention comes in many forms, addressing various areas of a child's development. Some of the most common types of supports include:

Therapeutic interventions

• Speech and language therapy: For children experiencing difficulties with communication, speech and language therapy can be immensely beneficial. Therapists work on improving a child's speech clarity, understanding and use of language, and social communication skills.
• Occupational Therapy (OT): OT aims to enhance a child's ability to perform daily activities independently. This could include fine motor skills like holding a pencil, gross motor skills like running and jumping, or life skills like dressing and feeding.
• Physiotherapy: For children with mobility issues, physiotherapy can be instrumental. Physiotherapists help children develop strength and improve their movement capabilities, often through play-based exercises.
• Psychology services: Child psychologists provide techniques and strategies to help children cope with emotional and behavioural issues. They can also support children with autism or ADHD.

Capacity building supports

• Family training and education: Parents and carers receive comprehensive training to support their child's development at home and in the community. This includes learning specific intervention techniques, understanding their child's disability or developmental needs, and developing skills to advocate effectively for their child's needs.
• Sibling support: Brothers and sisters often need support to understand their sibling's disability and learn how they can help. Sibling support programs provide age-appropriate information, emotional support, and practical strategies to foster positive family relationships.
• Professional development: Educators, childcare workers, and other professionals receive specialised training to better support children with disabilities in their settings. This ensures inclusive practices and appropriate accommodations across all environments where the child spends time.

Community participation supports

• Inclusion support: Additional assistance helps children participate fully in mainstream early childhood education settings like kindergarten, preschool, or daycare. This might include one-on-one support workers or environmental modifications to ensure successful inclusion.
• Social skills development: Structured programs and activities help children build peer relationships and develop appropriate social behaviours. These programs often use play-based learning to teach communication, sharing, and friendship skills in natural settings.
• Assistive technology: Specialised equipment and devices can dramatically improve a child's independence and participation. This ranges from simple communication boards to sophisticated speech-generating devices, mobility aids, or adaptive seating and positioning equipment.
• Transport assistance: Funding may be available to help families access community activities, therapy appointments, or inclusive education settings. This support ensures that location and transport barriers don't prevent children from participating in important developmental opportunities.

Remember, early intervention is most effective when it's tailored to the child's needs. It is always a collaborative process involving families, carers, and professionals to ensure the best outcomes for the child.

How to access the Early Childhood Approach

Step 1: Initial contact

Contact options include:

• Your GP, child health nurse, or paediatrician
• Early childhood educator or daycare provider
• Directly contact an early childhood partner in your area
• Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110

Step 2: Connect with an Early Childhood Partner

Your early childhood partner will:

• Assess your child's developmental needs
• Discuss your family's goals and priorities
• Explain available support options
• Connect you with appropriate services
• Help with NDIS early intervention application if needed

Step 3: Accessing Early Connections

While waiting for formal assessment, you can access immediate supports through Early Connections:

• Information sessions about child development
• Referrals to mainstream community services
• Short-term therapeutic interventions
• Playgroups and social opportunities

Step 4: Developing your child's support plan

If formal ECA services are appropriate, your early childhood coordinator NDIS will work with you to:

• Create an individualised support plan
• Coordinate service delivery across providers
• Monitor progress and adjust supports
• Plan transitions as your child grows

NDIS Early Intervention application process

For children requiring ongoing support, the NDIS early intervention application involves:

Documentation required

• Developmental assessments from qualified professionals
• Reports from current service providers
• Medical information (where available)
• Evidence of functional impact on daily activities

Assessment process

• Comprehensive developmental assessment
• Family interview about needs and goals
• Review of current supports and services
• Decision about ECA plan or NDIS plan pathway

Timeline expectations

Families can expect the process to move relatively quickly once started. From your initial contact to the first meeting with an early childhood partner, the timeline is typically 1-2 weeks.

Following this, the comprehensive assessment and development of your support plan usually takes 4-8 weeks to complete and once your plan is approved, support services can commence within 2-4 weeks, meaning most families are receiving active support within 2-3 months of their first contact.

What happens when your child turns 9?

When your child reaches 9 years, a carefully planned transition process ensures continuity of support.

The transition process begins well in advance, with your early childhood coordinator starting transition planning approximately six months before your child's 9th birthday.

This includes a comprehensive assessment for ongoing NDIS eligibility to determine what level of support your child will need as they move into school-age services.

During this period, connections are established with appropriate school-age support services, and if your child continues with NDIS support, there will be a structured handover to Local Area Coordinators who specialise in supporting older children and adults.

Access quality social support with Like Family

While we don't currently provide support to children under 7 at Like Family, we are well-equipped to assist NDIS and non-NDIS Members alike to build social skills and independence.

Our NDIS-verified support workers are here to help you or a loved one with a variety of activities, including exercise, household tasks, skills training, transportation and a buddy for social events.

Sign up today to connect with a reliable, compassionate support worker in your local area.

There's plenty of evidence that ongoing exposure to plants and gardening is good for your mental and physical health. But for many NDIS participants, maintaining a garden can quickly become an overwhelming burden.

The good news is that your NDIS plan may be able to help you cover the costs of maintaining your garden and outdoor spaces.

There are a few things to consider when it comes to NDIS gardening support, so this guide is designed to help you understand all the different elements of using your NDIS plan for garden and yard maintenance.

Understanding NDIS Gardening Support

Activities like cleaning, gardening, and home maintenance are all classified by the NDIS under Support Category 1 (Assistance with Daily Living). This is a Core Support, so if you have funding in your plan's Core budget, you can use it to get help around the house or garden.

Maintaining your outdoor space isn't just about aesthetics. It's about safety, accessibility, and your ability to live independently in your own home.

NDIS gardening and cleaning services are designed to provide practical assistance for participants who find daily household tasks challenging due to their disability.

What's covered under NDIS gardening support

When we discuss NDIS-funded gardening assistance, we're referring to practicalmaintenance tasks that help keep your outdoor areas safe and accessible.

NDIS-funded yard work usually falls under the Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life category.

Typical gardening tasks that may be covered include:

• Lawn mowing and basic grass maintenance
• Weeding garden beds and pathways
• Pruning overgrown bushes and shrubs
• Clearing fallen leaves and debris
• Maintaining safe access paths to your home
• Basic garden bed maintenance
• Hedge trimming for safety and access

What's generally not covered:

It's important to understand that soil, plants, and gardening tools are not claimable items as part of this support. These are not related to your disability, as anyone would need to buy these to upkeep their garden. The NDIS focuses on the labour and assistance rather than materials or aesthetic improvements.

• New landscaping or garden design
• Purchasing plants, soil, or gardening equipment
• Decorative or aesthetic improvements
• Installing new garden features or structures

Who can access NDIS gardening support?

Participants whose NDIS plan includes Assistance with Daily Life funding and whose disability prevents them from performing the gardening tasks independently may access these services. But as with all NDIS funding, it needs to be considered “reasonable and necessary”.

Your eligibility for gardening support depends on several factors:

Your disability impact: The gardening tasks must be something you cannot safely or effectively complete due to your disability. This could be due to mobility limitations, chronic fatigue, sensory impairments, or other disability-related challenges.

Safety considerations: If overgrown gardens or unmaintained outdoor areas pose safety risks—such as creating trip hazards, blocking emergency exits, or attracting pests—this strengthens the case for NDIS funding.

Reasonable and necessary criteria: Like all NDIS supports, gardening assistance must meet the scheme's "reasonable and necessary" criteria. This means the support must be directly related to your disability needs and represent good value for money.

Types of gardening support available

Support workers for gardening tasks

Many NDIS participants choose to work with support workers who can assist with gardening tasks. Another option is to enlist a Support Worker to assist you with the jobs you're unable to do. This is described as 'Assistance with Personal Domestic Activities' and this also falls under the Assistance with Daily Living Support Category.

This approach offers several advantages:

• Continuity of care: Working with the same support worker builds familiarity with your preferences and garden needs
• Flexibility: Support workers can adapt to your changing needs and energy levels
• Skill development: Some support workers can help you learn modified gardening techniques that work with your disability
• Companionship: Gardening together can be both productive and socially enriching

Professional gardening services

For participants who require more intensive garden maintenance, professional gardening services may be the right choice. These providers often have:

• Specialised equipment for efficient garden maintenance
• Professional training in safe gardening practices
• Insurance and workers' compensation coverage
• Experience working within NDIS guidelines

How to access NDIS gardening support

Step 1: Review your current plan

Check your NDIS plan to see if you have funding allocated for Core Supports, specifically "Assistance with Daily Life." If it’s not there, you’ll need to make a case for its inclusion in your next plan review.

Step 2: Document your need

Before your next plan review, document why gardening assistance is necessary for you:

• Take photos of garden areas that pose safety risks
• Keep a diary of how your disability impacts your ability to maintain outdoor spaces
• Note any incidents or near-misses related to garden maintenance
• Consider getting a letter from your healthcare provider if mobility or safety is a concern

Step 3: Include in your plan review

During your plan review meeting:

• Clearly explain how your disability prevents you from maintaining your garden independently
• Discuss safety concerns and accessibility needs
• Provide evidence of your current garden maintenance challenges
• Request specific funding for "Assistance with Daily Life" activities

Step 4: Finding the right support

Once you have funding approved:

• Research local providers who understand NDIS requirements
• Ask about their experience with disability support
• Ensure they have appropriate insurance and qualifications
• Consider whether you'd prefer individual support workers or professional services

Making the most of your gardening support

Communication is Key

Whether working with support workers or professional gardeners, clear communication ensures you get the support you need:

• Create a priority list of gardening tasks
• Discuss your preferences and any plants or areas that are particularly important to you
• Communicate about seasonal needs and changes
• Provide feedback

Stay involved as much as possible

Even with gardening support, you might still be able to participate in ways that work for your disability:

• Try to complete light tasks like watering plants or deadheading flowers
• Plan and direct your garden’s layout
• Enjoy the therapeutic benefits of being in the garden space
• Learn adaptive gardening techniques from your support workers

Budget management

NDIS Core funding is quite flexible, and you do get to select the services you require if they meet the NDIS guidelines, so you can balance gardening support with other daily living assistance based on your priorities and seasonal needs.

Get back to your garden with Like Family

At Like Family, we understand that every person's gardening needs are different, just as every disability experience is unique.

Our compassionate support workers don't just see gardening as another task to tick off. They understand the sense of wellbeing that comes with maintaining spaces that bring you joy.

Our experienced carers can assist with gardening tasks as part of comprehensive daily living support, working alongside you to ensure your outdoor spaces remain safe, accessible, and welcoming.

Whether it's helping with weekly lawn maintenance, seasonal garden clean-ups, or simply being there to support you as you tend to your favourite plants, we're here to help you get back to the garden on your terms.

We'll work with you to understand your preferences, respect your connection to your garden, and provide the gentle, reliable support you need to keep your outdoor spaces thriving.

Ready to reclaim your garden? Contact our friendly Customer Care team at hello@likefamily.com.au today to discuss how our support workers can help make your gardening goals a reality through your NDIS plan.

Sometimes, we need a hand with everyday tasks so we can achieve greater independence. That's what "Assistance with Daily Life" (also known as ADL) is all about.

This NDIS support category falls under Core Supports, the most flexible support budget. It's also 1 of the 5 support categories that you can use to access Like Family's professional daily life support services.

In this article, we'll explain what NDIS Assistance with Daily Life (ADL) is, how it differs to similar Capacity Building supports, what's covered and what's not covered, as well as practical examples of activities and how Like Family can help you access this vital support.

What is Assistance with Daily Life (ADL)?

NDIS Assistance with Daily Life (ADL) covers supports and services that help you manage daily personal activities connected to your disability needs, so you can live as independently as possible. This Core Support category provides funding for both hands-on assistance and supervision for tasks you cannot safely complete on your own due to your disability.

ADL support covers everything from short term accommodation to a support worker's assistance with meal preparation and personal care.

Your Assistance with Daily Life NDIS funding can be used for support at your home, out in the community or a bit of both — it depends on you and your needs.

How ADL differs from capacity building daily living supports

You'll notice there's a support category under Capacity Building called "Improved Daily Living". Although the names are similar, these two NDIS categories have distinctly different purposes.

NDIS Assistance with Daily Life (ADL) relates to ongoing assistance with everyday tasks that you wouldn't be able to do easily by yourself due to your disability, like showering, cleaning and accessing the community. These supports are essential for helping you maintain a safe, happy and healthy lifestyle.

On the other hand, Improved Daily Living (Capacity Building) focuses on helping you build independence and learn new skills, so you are less reliant on support services in the future. For example, you may work with a support worker to learn how to use public transport independently.

What does NDIS Assistance with Daily Life cover?

Your ADL NDIS funding covers a huge range of activities. What you get funding for will ultimately depend on what is reasonable and necessary to support your individual needs. These services and supports can include:

Personal care support

• Help with showering, bathing and personal hygiene
• Assistance with dressing and grooming
• Support with toileting and continence care
• Help with eating and drinking
• Medication supervision and reminders

Household and domestic support

• Help with household tasks such as cleaning, vacuuming, and tidying
• Laundry services and linen management
• Basic yard work and gardening
• Home maintenance tasks related to your disability needs

Community access and transport

• Transport to help you get out and about in the community
• Accompaniment to appointments and social activities
• Support to access public transport
• Assistance with grocery shopping and errands

Specialised living arrangements

• Supported independent living (SIL) coordination and support
• Short term accommodation (respite care)
• Sleepover support and overnight assistance
• 24-hour support for high-need participants

Meal and nutrition support

• Meal preparation and cooking assistance
• Meal planning and dietary management
• Assistance with feeding for those with physical limitations

Keep in mind that the cost of these services depends on factors like location, day, time of day and level of support. For example, hiring a support worker will generally be more expensive on Sundays than Mondays.

What Assistance with Daily Life does not cover

Understanding what your ADL NDIS funding doesn't cover is just as important as knowing what it does cover. There are several things that you cannot use your NDIS funding for as part of Assistance with Daily Life:

Day-to-day living costs

• The cost of food and groceries. This means you can use your funds to hire a support worker to help with meal prep, but not for the ingredients themselves.
• The cost of cleaning and household supplies such as detergent, cleaning products, and toiletries. Similarly, your NDIS funds won't cover the cost of things like laundry detergent or cleaning wipes.
• The cost of personal items that are not related to your disability, such as cosmetics, toiletries and general hygiene products.

Recreation and entertainment

• Ticket prices for events such as movies, concerts, or sports events. You can hire a support worker with your ADL funding to accompany you to a museum, but your NDIS funding won't cover the entry fee. A Companion Card can help cover the cost of your support worker's ticket if the venue accepts it, though.
• Costs for recreational activities and hobbies.
• Holiday and travel expenses not related to your disability.

Housing and accommodation costs

• Rent, mortgage payments, and utility bills.
• General home maintenance not related to your disability.
• Property modifications (these may be covered under other NDIS categories).

If you're unsure whether your NDIS plan covers a certain service or support, talk to your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator.

How to check if ADL is in your NDIS Plan

It's easy. Just head to your myplace portal and search for ‘Core Supports -Assistance with Daily Life’ in your plan. You can also talk to your Plan Manager if you're unsure.

Don't forget: NDIS core support funding is flexible and can be used for all four core support categories.

Why Choose Like Family for Your NDIS ADL Support?

Thinking about hiring a support worker to help you with everyday personal tasks? Like Family makes accessing your ADL NDIS funding simple and stress-free!

Like Family is an NDIS registered provider specialising in social and community support. We have a network of over 3,000 active, NDIS-verified support workers who are passionate about empowering NDIS participants to increase their independence and live life to the fullest.

Your ADL support options with Like Family

You can use your NDIS Assistance with Daily Life funding with us to get help with:

• Meal preparation and cooking assistance tailored to your dietary needs.
• Household tasks and gardening to keep your home safe and comfortable.
• Grocery shopping and errands to maintain your independence.
• Transportation to appointments, social activities, and community events.
• Community access support to help you engage with your local area.
• Overnight and sleepover support when needed.
• And much more!

Why families choose Like Family for ADL support

• Our hourly rates are below the NDIS price guide for 1:1 social supports, so you can get more hours out of your budget.
• No price negotiations required - transparent, fair pricing.
• Experienced, NDIS-verified support workers who understand disability support.
• Flexible scheduling to suit your routine and preferences.
• Comprehensive matching process to find the right support worker for you.

Ready to get started? Learn more about how you can maximise your NDIS ADL funding with Like Family.

If you'd like to learn more, contact our friendly Customer Care team at hello@likefamily.com.au

Frequently Asked Questions About NDIS ADL Support

If you're an NDIS participant looking to get active, eat healthier or improve your mobility, "Improved Health & Wellbeing" may be exactly what you need.

This Capacity Building support is all about helping people like you to live a happier, healthier and more independent life. It's also 1 of the 5 support categories that you can use to access Like Family's disability support services.

The Improved Health & Wellbeing category provides access to qualified allied health professionals, including exercise physiologists, personal trainers, and dietitians, who work specifically with people with disabilities. These NDIS-registered professionals will help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to maintain and improve your physical and mental health independently.

In this article, we'll explain what Improved Health & Wellbeing is all about, what activities it can and can't cover, who the qualified professionals are that can help you, and how to check if it's included in your NDIS plan.

What is Improved Health & Wellbeing under the NDIS?

As the name suggests, Improved Health & Wellbeing funds the disability services or supports you need to boost your physical and mental health. For some people, this may involve learning to prepare healthier meals. For others, it may mean working with an NDIS-registered exercise physiologist to increase mobility and flexibility or building strength and endurance with a personal trainer.

As this is a Capacity Building support, it's important that whatever supports you choose for Improved Health & Wellbeing help you achieve long-term goals and greater independence. The focus is on building your capacity to manage your health and wellbeing needs with less reliance on formal supports over time.

Who are the qualified professionals that can help you?

Exercise physiologists

Exercise physiologists specialise in designing safe, evidence-based exercise programs for people with disabilities. To provide NDIS services, they must complete a four-year undergraduate degree in exercise science and physiology, and be accredited with Exercise and Sports Science Australia.

Exercise physiologists can help with:

• Assessing your physical abilities and movement patterns
• Creating personalised exercise programs for your specific disability
• Teaching you safe exercise techniques
• Improving balance, coordination, and mobility
• Managing muscle weakness or spasticity
• Developing strength and endurance programs

Personal trainers

NDIS-qualified personal trainers hold specialised certifications and training to work with people with disabilities. They must have a Level III or IV certificate in Fitness, or a Diploma in exercise science or human movement.

Personal trainers can provide:

• Customised fitness programs adapted to your needs
• Motivation and support to reach your fitness goals
• Safe exercise instruction in various environments
• Group or individual training sessions
• Support for participation in recreational activities

Dietitians

Dietitians specialise in understanding nutrition and its relationship to health and disability. They must complete a recognised university degree in dietetics and be accredited with Dietitians Australia.

Dietitians can help you with:

• Nutritional assessments and meal planning
• Managing diet-related health conditions
• Addressing swallowing or chewing difficulties
• Weight management programs
• Food allergy management
• Healthy meal preparation skills

Who can benefit from Improved Health & Wellbeing funding?

This support category can help people with a wide range of disabilities and conditions, including:

Physical disabilities

• Spinal cord injuries
• Cerebral palsy
• Muscular dystrophy
• Amputations
• Physical and sensory impairments

Neurological conditions

• Multiple sclerosis
• Parkinson's disease
• Acquired or traumatic brain injuries
• Stroke recovery

Chronic health conditions

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Chronic pain conditions
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic fatigue syndrome

Mental health and developmental conditions

• Mental health conditions
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Intellectual disabilities
• Developmental delays

What are some examples of Improved Health & Wellbeing supports?

How you choose to use your Improved Health & Wellbeing funding will depend on what is considered reasonable and necessary to support your goals. Here are some examples!

• A consultation with a dietitian. If developing a healthier diet is one of your goals, an NDIS-registered dietitian can help you put together an appropriate, nutritional meal plan tailored to your specific disability-related needs. They can also help with meal preparation skills, managing food allergies, or addressing swallowing difficulties. Note: you can only access funding for a dietitian if the supports you need are directly related to your disability.
• Personal training sessions. NDIS-registered personal trainers can help improve your mobility and overall health through sports and recreational activities that best suit your needs. This could take place at home, at a local gym, in community centres, or through Telehealth sessions. Services can be delivered individually or in small groups..
• A session with an exercise physiologist. These are allied health professionals who typically focus on helping people with chronic conditions and injuries. They may create personalised exercise programs to build your capacity to do daily activities and move about independently, assess your movement patterns, provide injury rehabilitation, and teach you techniques for managing pain or muscle weakness.
• A helping hand from a support worker. NDIS support workers can help you with a range of health and wellbeing activities, like assistance with meal preparation or accessing a gym. Note: you may use funding from a different NDIS support category to pay for a support worker.

Where can you access these services?

Improved Health & Wellbeing supports can be delivered in various settings to suit your needs and preferences:

• Your home - for privacy and convenience
• Community centres - in familiar local environments
• Fitness facilities - with specialised equipment
• Clinical settings - for assessment and treatment
• Telehealth - for remote consultations and guidance
• Outdoor environments - for recreational activities

What does this support category not cover?

There are a few things that you cannot use your Improved Health & Wellbeing NDIS funding for. These are typically day-to-day expenses that aren't related to your disability, don't provide value for money, or will not contribute towards your goals.

• Food. You can use your funding to pay for a consultation with a dietitian, but not for the healthy ingredients themselves. That's because food is seen as an everyday expense.
• Gym memberships. This is considered an everyday cost that would have to be paid for regardless of whether you have a disability or not. However, you may be able to use your funding for an NDIS personal trainer who can work with you at a gym or fitness facility.
• Private swimming lessons. The NDIS states that you cannot use your funding for private swimming lessons as it's not considered value for money and could be provided by your informal supports.
• General wellness products - Items like supplements, fitness equipment, or wellness apps are considered everyday expenses and aren't covered.

If you have any questions about your NDIS plan and what it can be used for, talk to your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator.

How can I check if Improved Health & Wellbeing is covered by my NDIS plan?

Not sure if Improved Health & Wellbeing is included in your plan?

Just head to the myplace portal and search for ‘Improved Health & Wellbeing’ or 'CB Health and Wellbeing' in your plan, or talk to your NDIS plan manager (if you have one).

Improve your health and wellbeing with Like Family

Thinking about hiring a support worker to help you get active and boost your wellbeing? We can help!

Like Family is an NDIS registered provider specialising in social and community support. We have a network of over 3,000 active, NDIS-verified support workers who are passionate about empowering people of all abilities to live a healthy, happy life. They may help you to learn a new sport, prepare healthy meals, or get you to and from the gym.

You can use your Improved Health & Wellbeing funding to access our support services, in addition to 4 other NDIS support categories. Find out how you can use your funding with Like Family.

If you'd like to learn more, head to our website or contact our friendly Customer Care team at hello@likefamily.com.au today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for an adventure that's fun, accessible, and helps you meet new friends? Why not try an NDIS group activity with Like Family! Our 1:2 or 1:3 group bookings are a great way to try new things and connect with others who share your interests.

This is where one Social Carer (support worker) teams up with two or three members to enjoy the same activity together. It's a fantastic option because you can:

• Save on supports by sharing the cost of a Social Carer with other members.
• Meet new people with similar interests who may become lifelong friends.
• Enjoy more personalised support than a larger group booking.
• Try activities that are better with more people, like team sports and game nights.

In this guide, we'll give you some ideas for NDIS group activities and explain how to create a booking.

The benefits of NDIS group activities

Participating in group activities is about more than just having fun. It's also a valuable way to achieve your NDIS goals and improve your overall well-being. Here’s why NDIS group activities are so beneficial:

• They promote social inclusion: Group activities provide a safe and supportive environment to meet new people, build lasting friendships, and expand your social network.
• They help you develop new skills: From cooking and art to team sports and problem-solving, group settings allow you to learn and practice new skills in a collaborative way.
• They boost confidence and independence: Engaging with others in a group setting can boost your self-esteem and help you feel more confident in social situations and daily life.
• They can improve your physical and mental health: Getting active with others or simply sharing a creative space can lead to a positive impact on both your physical and mental health.
• They provide a sense of belonging: Being part of a group with shared interests can create a strong sense of community and help you feel more connected to those around you.

10 fun NDIS group activity ideas

Whether you're into outdoor adventures or laid-back leisure, we've got something to suit everyone.

1. Visit a theme park

While Australia may not have a Disneyland, we're still home to some pretty incredible theme parks. There's Raging Waters in Western Sydney, the two Luna Parks in Sydney and Melbourne, and the different "worlds" on the Gold Coast (like Dreamworld, Sea World and Movie World).

You and your friends can take a trip on the Ferris Wheel or challenge each other at dodgem cars. Many of these theme parks are part of the Companion Card program, which lets you bring a carer with you for free. Some, like Dreamworld, even have a visual story on their website to help you prepare for your big day out.

2. Go on a bushwalk

There's so much to love about hiking: beautiful scenery, fresh air, no entry fee, and the opportunity to get some serious steps in. You also don't need any experience or special equipment to get started!

Be sure to choose a track that is accessible, has good views and suits everyone's fitness ability. Bonus points if it's a loop track, so you don't have to repeat your journey!

View our top accessible bushwalk tracks for inspiration

3. Host a games night

Are you more of an indoors person? Why not host a games night? Whether you're into Dungeons and Dragons, Catan, or a good ol' game of Scrabble, this is the perfect NDIS group activity to enjoy with other Like Family members.

You can meet up at a place like Fortress (which has a stack of popular games to borrow), a member's house, or even host your games night online to be extra COVID-safe.

4. Enjoy an arts & craft session

Any time of the year is the perfect opportunity to enjoy arts & crafts with friends.

During the holidays, you could decorate gingerbread houses, make a festive wreath for your front door, or create decorations to hang on the tree.

Outside of the holidays, you could try a pottery class or a paint & sip session together. It’s up to you and your imagination.

5. Play (or watch) your favourite team sport

While it's fun to kick a ball around with your Social Carer, having one or two extra people around truly opens you up to a world of sporting possibilities. Head to your nearest park or community centre to play basketball, tennis, cricket, or even ultimate frisbee.

If you're more into watching sports, why not go to a game live with other members?

6. Visit a local museum or art gallery

Explore a local museum or art gallery with your friends and Social Carer. Museums and galleries usually offer accessible entry and inclusive environments.

By design, they offer a calm, engaging environment to learn and appreciate new things. Many also offer visual stories and quiet zones for visitors with additional needs. It's a great way to get out and experience something new in a group.

7. Hop in the kitchen and cook together

Why not take on a new recipe as a group? Whether it's baking choc-chip cookies, decorating a cake, or making a delicious meal, cooking together is a fun way to develop new skills and enjoy the tasty results.

Food is always a great way to bring people together, and creating food together gives a real sense of accomplishment and self-confidence.

8. Try a new restaurant or café

Speaking of food, eating at a restaurant or heading to a café is always a better experience with a group of friends. You can be adventurous and try a cuisine you've never tasted before, or just enjoy a different take on one of your favourite foods.

9. Go to a local market

For something a bit different, consider browsing a weekend market for fresh produce, artisan goods, or unique crafts. Markets are open all around the country on weekends, and it’s a great way to explore your community and support local businesses.

10. Find group Activities created by carers

In case you haven't heard, Like Family Social Carers can now create their own Activities. This is a great way to connect with new Carers who share similar interests.

Here are some fantastic examples of NDIS group activities posted recently:

• Enjoy an afternoon walk along the beach with Ross
• See the Taylor Swift Eras Movie with Emily
• Play golf at Mona Vale with Richard
• Learn Henna Art with Amira
• Go Christmas Shopping with Peter
• Play D&D with Megan

You can apply to these Activities via the "Created by Carers" tab on the Activities page (via the Like Family dashboard).

How to book an NDIS group activity

If trying new things and meeting new people are on your bucket list, then Like Family's NDIS group bookings are for you!

They're more affordable than 1:1 supports, which means you can get more hours out of your NDIS budget. View hourly rates for group bookings

Just ask your Social Carer to arrange a booking for you, or reach out to our friendly Customer Care team on 1800 545 332 or hello@likefamily.com and they'll get you sorted in no time.

Not a Like Family Member yet? Click below to join our community today!

One of the central aims of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is to give people with disability more choice and control over how they achieve their goals.

If you're an NDIS participant, this means you have the power to choose how you manage your funding, what service providers you work with, and when you receive supports.

The NDIS Commission describes this as the principle of informed choice and dignity of risk. It means participants should be empowered to make decisions about their own lives, even if those decisions involve some risk.

When people with disability have more choice and control, they're more likely to achieve better outcomes and use their funding more effectively and efficiently.

What do we mean by choice and control?

Before the NDIS was introduced, the Productivity Commission found that disability services were often driven by providers. Funding went straight to providers rather than to the person who actually needed support, leaving little room for flexibility or decision-making.

The NDIS changed this. Today, choice and control is a fundamental principle of the scheme. Funding goes directly to the participant, who can then decide how to best use it to achieve their goals. This includes:

• Choosing how to manage your plan: You can manage your NDIS plan yourself, via the NDIA, or with the help of a plan manager.
• Choosing how to use your funding: If you have core supports funding, you may use it flexibly for a range of things, like consumables or domestic assistance, so long as it meets the NDIS requirement of being "reasonable and necessary".
• Choosing what services or supports you receive: You can decide which NDIS providers you engage, what supports they deliver, and which individual support workers you want to work with.

Balancing "choice" with “reasonable and necessary”

While the NDIS gives participants freedom to decide how they spend their funds, that freedom is balanced by the principle of reasonable and necessary supports.

This ensures that taxpayer funding is used to achieve outcomes linked to a participant’s goals, independence and community participation.

In practice, this means you can exercise choice and control, but supports still need to align with your plan goals and the NDIS guidelines.

Real-world examples of NDIS choice and control

If you're still not 100% certain on what choice and control might mean for you in a real-world scenario, here are some examples to guide you:

• You might choose to self-manage your plan so you can hire a local support worker who isn’t NDIS registered but suits your lifestyle.
• You could decide to use your Core budget to fund transport so you can attend a concert with friends, building both social and community participation.
• You might post an activity for a weekly bushwalk with the same support worker, ensuring consistency and trust.

These everyday decisions highlight how choice and control shapes not just funding, but quality of life.

How Like Family helps you enjoy more choice and control

As a proud NDIS registered provider, Like Family is built around the principle of choice and control. We help you:

Choose which support workers you work with

When you sign up and post an Activity, you can browse thousands of Social Carers across NSW, Victoria and Queensland. Filters allow you to narrow by age, location, support experience, and shared interests. You decide who you connect with, and you can continue working with the same person each week—avoiding the disruption of rotating workers.

Choose how you achieve your goals

Posting an Activity is like writing a job ad. You set out what support you want, when you want it, and how often. That might mean going to the movies, cooking together, or tackling household tasks. Carers then respond to your preferences, and you decide who’s the best fit.

Choose what information you share

Your privacy matters. We only share personal details with Carers once you choose to connect. You can browse Carers anonymously, and only disclose more information when you’re comfortable.

Enjoy more choice and control with Like Family

Like Family is on a mission to help everyone reach their full potential, regardless of age or ability. We provide social and community support that builds meaningful relationships and empowers participants to live life on their terms.

Our Social Carers can support you with:

• Community access
• Household tasks
• Arts & craft
• Outdoor adventures
• Transportation
• A buddy for social events

Our Social Carers all undergo a comprehensive vetting process, including a group induction and NDIS Worker Check, to ensure they are reliable and reflect our values.

Whether you're an NDIS participant, a relative of a participant, or a support coordinator, we can help you find and connect with compatible Social Carers in your local area. Join our community today!

Back in December 2023, an independent NDIS review made 26 recommendations and 139 supporting actions to help improve the NDIS.

One of those recommendations was the introduction of a new role to simplify the process of navigating the ins and outs of the NDIS.

Dubbed "Navigators", the role would be similar to a Support Coordinator, but instead focused on helping all people with disability connect with all types of disability support, not just the NDIS.

It's all part of the exciting shift to an ecosystem of mainstream, foundational and NDIS disability supports.

The introduction of navigators is excellent news for:

• anyone with a disability who isn't eligible for the NDIS
• NDIS participants who can't access a support coordinator
• anyone who's still confused about the difference between Local Area Coordinators (LACs), support coordinators, recovery coaches, early childhood partners and all the other roles in the disability space

However, if you're currently working as or with a support coordinator, you may be feeling a little worried about what's to come. Don't stress—we've got some answers to your concerns here.

What is a navigator?

Imagine you're standing in a new city with a big map in front of you. It's full of unfamiliar roads, train stations and landmarks. Where should you start?

You ask a friendly local on the street for directions. They ask about your interests, then suggest a bunch of great spots, and the best route to get there.

A navigator is like this friendly local. They'll have extensive knowledge of all the disability support services in your area and connect you with the most suitable ones.

How will navigators be different to support coordinators?

There are currently many types of people who can help you navigate the NDIS—LACs, support coordinators and specialist support coordinators, to name a few. But these roles have become increasingly complex over time, with both overlaps and gaps between them. Often, people don't know who to turn to when they need help.

These roles are also geared towards NDIS supports, which leaves people without NDIS funding to essentially fend for themselves.

Shifting to a navigator role would:

• allow all people with disability to get help accessing support services, not just NDIS participants
• help people discover and access local mainstream and foundational supports
• have one key source of information, not multiple
• reduce concerns about cost, as navigators would be funded by the NDIA and not a participant's NDIS plan
• achieve better outcomes for people with disability, as navigators would have stronger local connections and more time available to spend with them

What types of navigators will there be?

The NDIS review has suggested introducing a few types of navigators, both general and specialists. Who you work with will depend on your support needs.

General navigator

As the name suggests, this type of navigator is for anyone with disability under the age of 65. They'll help people to figure out what mainstream, foundational or NDIS supports will be best for their needs. If you're an NDIS participant, they'll also give you a hand developing an action plan on how to use your budget effectively, and do regular check-ins to ensure you're on track.

Specialist navigator

This role will be similar to the specialist support coordinators of today. They will only support NDIS participants with complex needs, who may need to navigate multiple types of support. Specialist navigators will probably have qualifications in something like social work.

Psychosocial recovery navigator

This type of navigator would support anyone with a psychosocial disability (with or without NDIS funding) to connect with relevant support services.

Housing and living navigator

If you're an NDIS participant and interested in exploring housing and living options, this is the navigator you need!

Shared support facilitator

If you're sharing housing and living supports with other participants, this person would ensure you have a real say in how these supports are facilitated.

Lead practitioner

The final type of navigator is aimed at children and their families who are NDIS participants or have more complex needs. They'll work with families to identify their support needs, provide information and connect them with the most suitable services.

When will navigators replace support coordinators?

The short answer is–we still don't know! The navigator role is still just a proposal, and nothing has been locked in yet.

The NDIS review has suggested a five-year timeframe to implement these changes to give everyone plenty of time to prepare. For now, the NDIS will continue to fund support coordination.

What will happen to support coordinators and LACs?

If you're a support coordinator, you may be thinking "am I out of a job?". Don't stress—it's likely that many support coordinators and LACs will become navigators in the future. This is also good news for any participants who've built strong relationships with their support coordinator.

How can I learn more about the NDIS review?

The introduction of navigators was 1 of 26 recommendations made by the NDIS review late last year. They've also suggested investing in "foundational supports", stronger regulation of providers, and changing who gets access to the NDIS. You can learn about the other big changes here.

Keep an eye on our blog for more updates!

Assisting a family member or friend with an NDIS application? Consider writing a support letter to aid the assessment process.

While the NDIA may not request one, a support letter outlining the applicant's goals and daily support needs can be beneficial. This comprehensive guide will show you how to write a support letter that can significantly strengthen an NDIS application.

What exactly is an NDIS support letter?

An NDIS support letter is a document that provides additional evidence to support a person's NDIS application. While it can be written by a support worker or carer, a strong support letter often comes from a variety of sources, including a friend, family member, or, most importantly, a clinical or allied health professional, such as a psychiatrist or occupational therapist.

The support letter should highlight the everyday challenges and difficulties the applicant faces due to their disability or condition. This includes information about the participant's functional abilities in key areas like mobility, communication, personal care, and any other areas where support is required.

It is also helpful to provide information about the participant's goals and aspirations, as well as any achievements or progress they have made in their journey towards greater independence and self-reliance.

While a support letter is about the applicant, a separate document called a "Carer Impact Statement" is used to highlight the impact of the caring role on you or your family.

When may a support letter be needed?

An NDIS support letter may be needed as part of an applicant's supporting evidence during the NDIS application process. The NDIA may request additional support letters from medical professionals, support workers, or carers. The purpose of a support letter is to provide objective and specific information that helps to build a comprehensive picture of the applicant's needs and circumstances.

Even if the NDIA does not specifically request a support letter, providing one can make the application stronger and improve the chances of a successful outcome.

Your letter should be focused on the applicant's needs, using specific examples and details to illustrate their daily challenges. It should clearly explain how the requested supports will help the person achieve their NDIS goals and how these supports represent value for money.

For the best results, always align the content of your letter with the NDIS's own language and criteria.

What to include in an NDIS support letter

When writing an NDIS support letter, it's important to provide specific and detailed information about the applicant's needs and circumstances. Here are some key points to consider when writing a support letter:

Introduction: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship to the applicant. Include details about how long you have been providing support, and the nature of the support you provide. Confirm that you agree the person requires NDIS funding due to their functional impairments.

Support provided: Outline the level and types of support you provide, including any specialised care or therapies that the applicant requires. Be specific about how often you provide support and how many hours per week you spend providing care.

Informal supports: Mention any other informal supports the applicant has in their life, such as family members, friends, carers, or services. This can help provide a comprehensive picture of the applicant's support network.

Functional impact of disability: This is the most important section. Describe how the applicant's health condition or disability impacts their day-to-day life. Use deficit-based language and provide clear examples. Structure your letter around the six NDIS functional domains:

• Mobility: Describe any difficulties the applicant has with movement, getting around, or accessing different environments.
• Communication: Outline any challenges the applicant faces with communication, such as difficulty speaking or understanding others.
• Social interaction: Describe any challenges the applicant has with social interaction, such as difficulty in group settings or engaging with peers.
• Learning: Detail any difficulties with comprehension, memory, or learning new tasks.
• Self-care: Describe any challenges the applicant has with personal care, such as bathing, dressing, or toileting.
• Self-management: Explain any issues with managing appointments, finances, or daily routines.

Goals: Outline the applicant's goals and aspirations, and how these relate to their support needs. Include any achievements or progress that the applicant has made towards greater independence and self-reliance.

Conclusion: Summarise the key points and explain the potential risks to the participant's well-being and independence if the requested supports are not provided.

What to Avoid When Writing a Support Letter

To ensure your letter is as effective as possible, be sure to avoid including information that is not relevant to the NDIS assessment:

• Other health conditions that are not directly related to the applicant's primary disability.
• Information about trauma history or other details that are not directly relevant to the functional impact of the disability.
• Suggestions for specific supports or funding amounts for a plan. The letter should focus on the impact and need, not on a pre-determined solution.
• Symptom management strategies or general medical advice.

What to include in a carer impact statement

A carer impact statement, also known as a carer statement, is a separate document that outlines the impact of caring for an NDIS applicant on the carer or the applicant's family. Here are some steps to follow when writing a carer impact statement:

1. Introduce yourself: Start by introducing yourself and your relationship to the NDIS applicant. Include details about how long you have been providing care, and the nature of the care you provide.
2. Describe the impact: Explain the physical, emotional and social impact that caring for the applicant has had on you and the applicant's family.
3. Discuss future care needs: Explain whether you can continue to provide care for the applicant in the same way in the future.
4. Discuss the need for extra support: Explain what extra support and funding would mean for you and the applicant's family. This can include information about any specific needs or requirements that you have, as well as any areas where additional support could make a significant difference.

Your carer impact statement should be concise and focused on the effects of the caring role, not on making suggestions for supports in the NDIS plan.

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A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA) is an important tool in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). While it's not mandatory for your application, it can be a helpful document to help NDIS planners understand your support needs and allocate the right funding to help you achieve your goals.

In this guide, we will walk you through what a Functional Capacity Assessment is, why it's so important, what to expect during the process, and how it can help you live a more independent life.

What is a functional capacity assessment?

A Functional Capacity Assessment is a detailed evaluation of your ability to perform daily activities at home, at work, at school, and in the community.

It is typically conducted by a qualified Occupational Therapist (OT) or another specialised allied health professional.

The assessment provides a clear picture of your strengths and challenges, and how your disability impacts your everyday life.

The assessment is designed to look at six areas of functionality:

• Communication: Your ability to communicate your needs and understand others.
• Learning: Your capacity to learn new skills and information.
• Mobility: How you move around your home and community.
• Self-care: Your ability to manage your personal hygiene, dressing, and eating.
• Self-management: How you handle daily tasks like managing money, appointments, and household chores.
• Social interaction: Your capacity to build and maintain relationships and participate in social activities.

To be eligible for NDIS funding, the participant must have a permanent impairment that substantially reduces their ability to undertake the above-mentioned activities.

Why is a Functional Capacity Assessment important for your NDIS plan?

While a Functional Capacity Assessment isn't required for every NDIS plan, it can be a useful piece of evidence to help secure funding.

• Justifying funding: The detailed FCA report can provide evidence to justify requests for specific supports, therapies, or assistive technologies. It gives NDIS planners a clear view of your support needs.
• Tailored support: The assessment shows how your disability affects your daily functioning. This allows NDIS planners to create a plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
• A clearer picture: An FCA can provide a holistic overview of your abilities, which is useful if your current supports are no longer meeting your needs or if your circumstances have changed.
• Resolving disputes: The evidence-based nature of an FCA report can help if there is a dispute about the level of funding in your plan.

What's the difference between a Functional Capacity Assessment and an Occupational Therapy Assessment?

Becuase an FCA is often completed by an occupational therapist (or OT), it can often get confused with a general Occupational Therapy assessment. However, the two assessments have different purposes..

• An FCA is a comprehensive and broad assessment of your overall functional abilities. It's designed to take stock of your current levels of functioning and put that into a detailed report that is used to inform your NDIS plan.
• A general OT Assessment is more focused on a specific goal, such as a mobility assessment to determine the need for a wheelchair, or a home modification assessment. Once completed, it's used to deliver therapies to help you achieve that goal.

There is some overlap, of course. A Functional Capacity Assessment can inform an OT assessment, for example.

What is "substantially reduced functional capacity"?

"Substantially reduced functional capacity" means a significant limitation to a person's ability to perform daily tasks, participate in activities, or engage in life without assistive technology, equipment, or support from others.

Your impairment is considered to significantly reduce your functional capacity if you typically require disability-specific supports to participate in any of the six areas of functionality listed above.

How can I get a Functional Capacity Assessment?

You can demonstrate your need for NDIS funding without undergoing a Functional Capacity Assessment, which may be too expensive for some applicants. In this case, you can provide a support letter from a health professional that outlines your specific support needs.

However, if you require or would like to get an FCA, you can request it either before or after you have been granted NDIS funding.

The Functional Capacity Assessment process

The FCA process is designed to be both thorough and collaborative. While it can vary depending on your needs, a typical assessment usually follows these steps:

1. Initial meeting: The OT will meet with you to discuss your NDIS goals, your current supports, and your daily routine. This can take place at your home, a clinic, or a combination of both.
2. Information gathering: The OT will collect information from various sources. This includes observing you as you perform daily tasks, asking questions about your routine, and potentially speaking with your family, carers, and other healthcare professionals (with your consent).
3. Practical assessment: The OT will conduct a practical assessment of your abilities. This may involve assessing your mobility, how you perform household tasks, or your communication skills. The OT is there to observe and understand your challenges, not to judge.
4. Report writing: After the assessment, the OT will use their observations and data to write a comprehensive report. This is the most time-consuming part of the process, and it's where your OT will detail their findings and provide recommendations.
5. Review and finalisation: The report is often reviewed for quality and accuracy before it is finalised and sent to you. The final report is yours to share with your NDIS planner.

The entire process can take up to 10 hours, spread across multiple sessions, depending on the complexity of your situation.

What is evaluated during functional capacity assessments?

This will depend on your specific situation and the evidence you submit in your application.

Let's say you have a disability that significantly impacts your ability to move, but your cognitive abilities are intact. In such a case, the NDIA might not need to assess your cognitive-related daily activities. The assessment report will likely contain the following elements:

• Use of toilet facilities
• Eating/feeding habits
• Dressing, maintaining personal hygiene, and grooming
• Showering routine
• Use of mobility aids and transitions

The assessment will probably also include your social context, such as your ability to manage:

• Laundry/cleaning tasks
• Home maintenance activities
• Managing finances and budgeting
• Using the telephone
• Navigating travel and transportation
• Shopping
• Preparing meals and cooking

Who can perform a functional capacity assessment?

Functional Capacity Assessments are generally conducted by Occupational Therapists (OTs) or other specialised healthcare experts. When looking for an OT to carry out your Functional Capacity Assessment, a referral from your general practitioner could be helpful. This is because they should already be familiar with your requirements and can suggest a suitable professional for you.

However, a referral from a general practitioner isn't a prerequisite to seeing an OT for a Functional Capacity Assessment. Alternatively, you have the option to locate an OT yourself. It's important to note that not all OTs specialise in Functional Capacity Assessments, so it's vital to choose an OT with expertise in this field.

How long does a functional capacity assessment take?

A full functional capacity assessment can take up to 10 hours and is typically conducted over multiple sessions. The duration depends on the complexity of the individual's situation and the funding allocated for the assessment in their NDIS plan. The assessment can take place in various settings such as the individual's home, a clinic, or through remote means such as phone or video chat.

Understanding the Functional Capacity Assessment

There is no official template for an FCA report, but most will contain the same key components. This is what you can expect to find in the final document:

• Executive summary: A brief overview of the assessment's findings and key recommendations.
• Background information: Details about your medical and developmental history, as well as your current support network.
• Assessment findings: A detailed breakdown of your functional capacity in the six key areas (communication, learning, mobility, self-care, self-management, and social interaction). This section will provide specific examples and observations.
• Recommendations: The most important section for your NDIS plan. This will include recommendations for specific supports, therapies, assistive technology, and home modifications, all tied back to how they will help you achieve your NDIS goals.
• Conclusion: A summary of the report and its implications for your NDIS plan.

After you get your NDIS funding

Whether you've undergone a Functional Capacity Assessment or not, securing NDIS funding is a significant step towards independence and achieving your community access goals.

Once you've been granted NDIS funding, you're not alone in this journey. At Like Family, we’re here to offer our support. We're dedicated to helping you work towards your goals via social and community support.

Connect with us today to learn more about our disability support services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’re new to the NDIS, you’ve probably seen references to the NDIA, and maybe wondered what that meant.

The NDIA is an acronym for the National Disability Insurance Agency. It’s the government body responsible for managing the NDIS, or National Disability Insurance Scheme.

It’s an independent statutory agency, designed specifically to implement the NDIS to help Australians living with disability to live their best life.

The NDIA has four main roles and responsibilities:

• It provides information and referrals for people looking at the NDIS, connecting people to services and activities. It is responsible for developing individualised plans, which it then offers funded support for throughout the participant’s life.
• The NDIA helps empower and inform people with disability to be confident consumers.
• It provides service providers with clarity and transparency so they can grow their business and respond to people’s needs.
• The NDIA helps raise community awareness, while encouraging greater inclusion and access for people with disability to mainstream services, community activities and other government initiatives.

This means that the NDIA is essentially the organisation, or “the who”, responsible for delivering the NDIS, or “the what”.

Once an NDIS plan has been approved, the NDIA can also act as a plan’s manager if you choose to have an Agency-managed NDIS plan. By picking an Agency-managed plan, the NDIA will look after bookkeeping and record-keeping for you, taking away some administrative responsibility.

The NDIS, meanwhile, is the scheme designed to support Australians living with permanent disability. Its main aim is to provide funding that allows participants to access the necessary supports and services that help them achieve their goals.

Let Like Family help you achieve your goals

Like Family is a registered NDIS provider that connects people with disability to compassionate support workers in the local community who can help you achieve your goals.

That could be anything from getting support with your day-to-day life, to attending community events, depending on your individual needs.

If you have any questions about how you can use your NDIS plan with Like Family for some extra support, don’t hesitate to get in touch! Our friendly team is always happy to help.

Call us on 1800 545 332 or email hello@likefamily.com.au, or join today to get started.