The short answer? Yes, the NDIS does fund fitness equipment.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded program in Australia that provides financial assistance to individuals with disability, injury, or health conditions to help them live independently and achieve their goals.
It provides funding for a wide range of supports and services, including exercise equipment, to help individuals participate in activities that promote their health and well-being.
Under the NDIS, funding for exercise equipment is classified as an "assistive technology" support, which is any device or piece of equipment that helps an individual with disability to perform tasks or activities that they may otherwise be unable to do.
This includes exercise equipment such as stationary bikes, treadmills, and weights, as well as other assistive technologies such as mobility aids, communication devices, and computer equipment.
To be eligible for NDIS funding for exercise equipment, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Have a disability, injury, or health condition that affects their ability to participate in activities of daily living, including physical activity and exercise.
- Have a current NDIS plan that outlines their support needs and goals.
- Have identified the specific exercise equipment that they need in their NDIS plan, along with a clear explanation of how it will help them to achieve their goals.
- Have a letter from a health professional, such as a doctor or physiotherapist, outlining the benefits of the exercise equipment for their health and well-being.
If an individual meets these criteria, the NDIS will fund the cost of purchasing or leasing the exercise equipment, as well as any necessary maintenance or repairs.
It's important to note that NDIS funding for exercise equipment is not unlimited, and the amount of funding provided will depend on the individual's specific needs and goals.
It is therefore important to carefully consider the type and cost of the equipment that is being requested, and to ensure that it is necessary and cost-effective in achieving the desired outcomes.
Overall, the NDIS does fund exercise equipment for individuals with disability, injury, or health conditions who meet the eligibility criteria and have identified the equipment as necessary in their NDIS plan.
This funding can help individuals to improve their health and well-being, and to participate more fully in activities that promote their independence and quality of life.