How to Get NDIS Funding for Exercise Physiology Services

Understanding the Process for New Participants

Navigating the NDIS as a first-time participant can feel overwhelming. You may have a diagnosed condition, functional challenges, and a goal to improve your mobility or independence—but you're unsure where to begin or how to access the support you need.

At Exercise Matters, we support individuals and families through every step of the NDIS journey. If you're new to the scheme, this guide will help you understand how to apply for funding and access Exercise Physiology as part of your NDIS plan.

Step 1: Understand What the NDIS Is

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to support Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. It provides funding for services that help you achieve your goals and participate in daily life.

You may be eligible for NDIS if:

• You are aged between 9 and 65

• You are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa

• You have a permanent disability that significantly affects your ability to participate in everyday activities

Step 2: Gather Supporting Evidence

Before applying, gather evidence that supports your need for NDIS access. This typically includes:

• A detailed report or letter from your GP, specialist, Occupational Therapist and allied health provider (e.g. Exercise Physiologist, Physiotherapist, Psychologist). To help achieve funding needs and your chances of funding approval, please aim for a minimum of 4 reports from the above specalists

• Medical history and diagnosis

• Functional impact (how the condition affects your daily life)

• Past and current therapies or interventions

Tip: Use clear, specific language about your functional limitations, e.g., “needs support to walk more than 50m without rest.” Remember, this is an insurance scheme so you need to detail how you need these supports now to make life better in the future

Step 3: Submit Your NDIS Access Request

You can submit an Access Request in one of three ways:

• Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 and request an Access Request Form

• Visit a local NDIS office to apply in person

• Apply through a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Partner (if under 9 years old)

The form will ask about:

• Your personal details and living arrangements

• Your disability and functional limitations

• How your condition impacts your ability to work, study, socialise, or live independently

Step 4: Attend a Planning Meeting

If your access request is approved, you will be invited to a planning meeting with an NDIS planner or LAC. This meeting is crucial to:

• Define your goals (e.g. "to improve walking capacity," "to participate in community exercise," "to manage fatigue")

• Identify supports needed, including Exercise Physiology

• Choose how you want your plan managed (NDIA-managed, plan-managed, or self-managed)

Tip: Be clear that Exercise Physiology is required to work towards your goals, such as improved mobility, independence, or participation in sport.

Step 5: Get Your Plan and Start Services

Once approved, your plan will list funding categories such as:

• Improved Daily Living: where Exercise Physiology is typically funded

• Improved Health and Wellbeing (occasionally used depending on goals)

At Exercise Matters, we:

• Help interpret your plan and available budget

• Provide goal-oriented assessments and reports

• Deliver ongoing therapy to help you achieve meaningful outcomes

Real-World Example: Adam’s NDIS Journey

Adam, a 15-year-old with developmental delay and low muscle tone, had difficulty with coordination, balance, and fatigue. His family applied to the NDIS with support letters from their GP and an Exercise Physiologist.

Following plan approval:

• Adam received funding under Capacity Building and Improved Daily Living

• He attended weekly Exercise Physiology sessions focusing on motor control, endurance, and school participation

• His confidence, coordination, and capacity in activities of daily living and sport all improved

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can Exercise Physiology be included in my NDIS plan?

Yes. It is typically funded under Improved Daily Living. Our team can provide supporting documentation to help justify its inclusion.

2. What conditions are eligible for NDIS funding?

Eligibility is not based on diagnosis alone but the functional impact. Conditions may include physical disabilities, neurological conditions (e.g. cerebral palsy, stroke, MS), intellectual disability, autism, or chronic fatigue if it significantly impairs daily function.

3. Can Exercise Matters help me prepare for my planning meeting?

Absolutely. We can provide a pre-planning report outlining your therapy needs, goals, and how Exercise Physiology supports your outcomes.

4. How do I book with Exercise Matters once I get a plan?

Contact us via phone or email. We will review your plan, book an initial assessment, and help you set therapy goals.

5. What if I already have an NDIS plan but no Exercise Physiology?

You may be able to request a plan review. If your goals relate to mobility, independence, or physical capacity, we can help advocate for Exercise Physiology funding.

Start Your NDIS Journey with Exercise Matters

Our team is here to guide you through the process, from application to therapy. Whether you need help getting started or maximising an existing plan, we’re here to help.

📞 Call (07) 5448 3532 🌐 www.exercisematters.healthcare

References:

• National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). (2023). www.ndis.gov.au

• Australian Government Department of Social Services. (2023). NDIS Operational Guidelines

• Dew A et al. (2018). Barriers to accessing allied health services through the NDIS. Disability & Society.

• Smith L et al. (2020). Supporting functional independence through community-based therapy. Australian Journal of Primary Health.