Sport funding with the NDIS

In this article we will look at how to get involved with a sporting activity that is right for you and explore how NDIS could support you to play a sport or to cover the cost of sporting equipment. 

How to get involved with a sport?

There is a wide range of sports that are accessible for people living with disability and some that can be tailored to any individual to support their participation. Getting involved with a sport may seem complicated at first but there are some considerations that can help you choose the right sport or recreational activity and prepare to partake:

1. Activity - What physical activities do you enjoy? Are there any particular types of sports that you like and enjoy participating in? What sporting clubs are in your area?
2. Equipment - Will you need any sports equipment to take part in the sport you like? For example, will you require a sports wheelchair or a prosthesis?
3. Transport - How will you get to and from the location of the activity? Will you be required to take public transport, taxi or can a family member or a support worker assist you? 
4. Accessibility - Will you require support while taking part in the activity? Can a family member or a support worker attend with?

You may wish to speak to some friends who have played or tried certain sports or reach out to your support coordinator or GP for guidance. 

Will NDIS pay for playing a sport?

The NDIS recognises the many benefits that playing a sport can have on body and mind, and that is why funding is available to cover the cost of playing the sport and the cost of sporting equipment. 

To receive NDIS funding for your sport, you will need to show how playing the sport relates to your NDIS goals,and that the support you would receive is considered ‘reasonable and necessary.’ 

The sport funding will come from one of the following two NDIS Support Categories:

1. Increased Social & Community Participation (Category 9): this is a Capacity Building support that covers funding for activities aimed at improving your skills and independence. For example, fitness classes, coaching, or other sporting activities which support your community participation.
2. Assistance with Social & Community Participation (Category 4): this is a Core support that is more flexible and covers more activities. For example, a support worker to assist with sport participation, or other supports that assist you with the activity and being part of the community. 

Will NDIS pay for my sports equipment?

If your disability requires you to use specialised equipment to play sport, the NDIS may support you through the following two funding categories:

1. Consumables: this category can be used for products readily available off the shelf but which may need some adaptations to suit your needs. You will be required to cover the cost of the basic product while the NDIS will cover the costs of any extra modifications needed. 
2. Assistive Technology: this category can be used for more specialised equipment from a disability supplier. You will be required to undergo an occupational therapy assessment to determine whether this specialised equipment is needed, reasonable and necessary.