NDIS Holiday Funding offers participants the opportunity to explore new destinations while addressing their support needs. Through the National Disability Insurance Scheme, individuals can access essential supports linked to their NDIS plan goals, such as hiring local support workers, securing accessible accommodations, and using assistive technology. This funding aims to boost social and community participation, enabling participants to enjoy travel experiences without sacrificing necessary care. With strategic planning and coordination with support coordinators or plan managers, NDIS participants can maximize their funding for inclusive and memorable holiday experiences.
Taking a break shouldn’t be a luxury—it should be an option for everyone. If you’re an NDIS participant wondering how to make your holiday possible with NDIS funding, you’re in the right place! This guide will cover what the NDIS can and can’t cover, how to budget for your trip, and practical tips for accessible travel.
What Is NDIS Holiday Funding?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for supports that help participants achieve their goals, including social and community participation. However, this does not mean the NDIS will cover all holiday expenses.
Will the NDIS Fund My Holiday?
The NDIS does not pay for flights, hotels, or entertainment costs, as these are considered personal expenses. However, NDIS funds can cover essential disability-related supports that make your trip possible, though they do not cover holiday expenses.
What Holiday Costs Can the NDIS Cover?
Under the reasonable and necessary criteria, the NDIS may fund:
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Support workers to assist you while travelling
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Accessible accommodation (if disability-related features cost more than standard rooms)
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Specialist transport (wheelchair-accessible vehicles, modified transport)
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Assistive technology or mobility aids to use during your trip
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Travel supports, including short term accommodation and respite care. Funding short term accommodation is designed to provide essential support and care for NDIS participants temporarily away from their usual homes, rather than for recreational purposes.
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Support coordination to help plan and navigate your journey
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Additional costs associated with accessibility modifications at your destination
Fact Check: The NDIS can cover these supports only if they align with the goals in your NDIS plan. (NDIS Act 2013, Section 34)
How to Get NDIS Support for Your Holiday
1. Check Your NDIS Plan Goals
The NDIS will only fund supports that align with your approved NDIS plan goals. If your plan includes goals like “increasing independence” or “enhancing community participation,” travel-related supports may be funded.
2. Speak to Your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager
Your NDIS Support Coordinator or Plan Manager can help you understand which supports you can claim and how to budget effectively.
3. Consider Hiring a Local Support Worker
Instead of paying for your usual support worker’s flights and accommodation, consider hiring a local support worker at your destination using platforms like Hireup and Kynd.
Additionally, informal supports such as family and friends can also play a crucial role in managing care needs during short-term accommodations.
4. Plan Accessible Accommodation in Advance
Hotels with accessible features (ramps, hoists, roll-in showers) book out quickly. Book early to secure the best options and avoid additional costs.
5. Use NDIS-Approved Travel Services
Specialist travel agencies like TravAbility and Australia for All cater to people with disabilities and can assist in planning an accessible trip.
6. Budget Your Core Supports Wisely
Your core supports budget may be used for travel-related disability supports, but it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure you have enough funds for everyday support needs when you return.
7. Apply for Short-Term Accommodation (STA) Funding
Funding for short-term accommodation can sometimes be used for holiday stays if they provide essential support and respite care. Around the clock support can be essential for individuals with disabilities during travel, and while the NDIS does not cover holiday costs, it can fund support services essential to the participant’s needs during their trip.
NDIS and International Travel: What You Need to Know
Can I Use NDIS Funding for Overseas Travel?
Yes—but only for up to six weeks. While the NDIS typically does not fund holidays, individuals might be able to access their funding for necessary NDIS supports related to their disabilities while away from home, depending on personal circumstances and the reasonable and necessary criteria of their plans. If you plan to travel for longer, you’ll need special approval from the NDIS Support Team.
How to Get NDIS Funding for an Overseas Trip
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Notify the NDIS about your travel plans before booking
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Ensure your supports align with your personal circumstances and plan goals
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Plan your budget carefully to avoid unexpected holiday expenses
Pro Tip: Some airlines and hotels offer discounts for NDIS participants and support workers—always ask before booking!
How to Make Your NDIS-Funded Holiday More Affordable
Even with NDIS funding, holiday costs can add up. Here’s how to make the most of your budget:
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Hire a local support worker instead of covering travel costs for your regular carer
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Look for disability travel discounts on flights, hotels, and attractions
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Choose self-contained accommodation to save on dining expenses
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Apply for a Companion Card for free or discounted entry for your support worker
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Explore community grants that may provide additional funding for short term accommodation
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Use your own savings to supplement any uncovered expenses
Real Stories: How NDIS Participants Have Funded Their Holidays
Anna’s Beach Holiday in Noosa
Anna, a 27-year-old NDIS participant with cerebral palsy, used her NDIS funding to hire a local support worker instead of flying her regular carer from Melbourne. This significantly cut holiday expenses while still providing the personal care she needed.
Tom’s Accessible Outback Adventure
Tom, a wheelchair user, received NDIS funding for a modified 4WD rental in the Northern Territory, making his dream travel experiences possible while staying within his core supports budget.
Sarah’s Weekend Retreat
Sarah, an NDIS participant living with autism, used short stay funding for a weekend retreat that focused on community participation and mental wellness. This helped her experience new things in a supportive environment.
Final Thoughts: Making Your Dream Holiday a Reality
While the NDIS won’t pay for your entire holiday, it can help cover disability-related supports that make travel possible. The key is to plan ahead, use your NDIS funding strategically, and seek expert advice.
At Re.Connect Support Services, we’re here to help you navigate your NDIS plan, access the right support needs, and plan an accessible, stress-free holiday.
🚀 Need assistance with NDIS holiday funding? Contact us today to get started!
FAQs About NDIS Holiday Funding
Will the NDIS pay for my flights and hotel?
No, but it may fund disability-related supports such as accessible accommodation and support workers.
Can I use NDIS for an overseas holiday?
Yes, for up to six weeks. Longer trips require prior approval from the local area coordinator.
How do I apply for NDIS holiday funding?
Speak to your NDIS Plan Manager or Support Coordinator to ensure your trip aligns with your plan goals.
Can I use NDIS funding for a family holiday?
The NDIS will only cover supports directly related to your disability. It will not cover family travel expenses, but it may fund a support worker if necessary.
