Let’s be real—when it comes to NDIS funding, the line between what’s covered and what’s not can feel blurry. One day you’re told support workers are funded; the next you’re out-of-pocket for something you thought was “disability-related.” So, what won’t the NDIS pay for?

Here’s the short version:
The NDIS will not fund anything that isn’t related to your disability, or anything considered a “day-to-day living cost” for all Australians. If it doesn’t meet the “reasonable and necessary” test, it’s a no.

Let’s unpack the common exclusions—no jargon, just clarity.

Will the NDIS Pay for Food, Rent, or Utilities?

No, and that surprises a lot of people.

These are considered ordinary living expenses, meaning they’re your responsibility, regardless of disability. That includes:

• Groceries and takeaway meals (unless part of a funded nutrition support plan)

• Rent or mortgage payments

• Electricity, gas, water, and internet bills

• Entertainment, alcohol, and lifestyle purchases

Think of it this way: If it’s something every Aussie has to pay for, NDIS likely won’t foot the bill.

Does the NDIS Fund iPads, Furniture, or TVs?

Only if they meet strict guidelines.

• iPads may be funded if they’re essential for communication, therapy, or learning—but not if you just want one for movies and games.

• Beds or recliners might be covered if they’re medically necessary—say, an electric adjustable bed due to a spinal condition.

• TVs or sound systems? Sorry, not unless there’s a very specific therapeutic purpose backed by a support professional.

You’ll need supporting evidence from an OT or specialist—and even then, it has to pass the “reasonable and necessary” filter.

What About Beauty, Gym, or Travel Costs?

Here’s where it gets a bit grey, so let’s simplify it:

Generally Not Funded:

• Haircuts, massages, manicures

• Gym memberships for general fitness

• Holiday costs (flights, accommodation, meals)

Sometimes Funded:

• Therapeutic massage, if recommended by an allied health professional

• Exercise physiology for mobility or health outcomes

• Support worker travel costs, if they’re required to assist you on an activity

For example, the NDIS won’t pay for a weekend getaway to the Gold Coast—but it might pay for a support worker’s travel to help you access community events, respite stays, or daily activities.

Can I Use My NDIS Plan for Clothes or Laundry?

Again, probably not.

Clothing, personal grooming, and laundry expenses are all part of everyday life. However, if your disability results in excessive wear and tear (e.g. clothing ruined due to a behavioural condition), the NDIS may fund additional items—with strong clinical evidence.

But don’t expect a weekly laundry allowance just because you’re an NDIS participant. Basic hygiene costs are considered outside the scheme.

So What Does the NDIS Pay For?

Let’s flip it for a second and look at what the NDIS does fund, to understand the distinction.

It will pay for supports that:

• Help you pursue your goals

• Improve your independence or social participation

• Are related to your disability and not day-to-day life

• Represent value for money

This includes:

• Therapy (OT, psychology, speech)

• Assistive tech and mobility equipment

• Daily support (like showering or transport assistance)

• Supported accommodation services

• NDIS in home support, including cooking, cleaning, and medication assistance if directly related to your disability

 Who Decides What’s “Reasonable and Necessary”?

This is where it gets tricky. The NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) uses several criteria to decide:

• Is the support directly related to your disability?

• Does it help you work towards your NDIS goals?

• Is it value for money compared to other options?

• Is it something the government already covers elsewhere?

This last one is key. If Medicare, public housing, or the education system already funds it, the NDIS won’t double-up.

 Real-World Example: Zoe’s Story

Zoe has autism and receives NDIS funding for speech therapy, support workers, and communication tools. Her mum once asked if the NDIS would cover Zoe’s trip to a music festival, since it helps her connect socially. The answer? No to the festival tickets, yes to the support worker’s hours and transport—because that’s part of Zoe’s funded community access.

That’s the rule in action: The event wasn’t disability-specific, but the support around it was.

Quick FAQ

Q: Can I use NDIS funds to pay a family member to help me?
Usually no—NDIS discourages paying informal carers unless there are exceptional circumstances.

Q: Will NDIS cover pet care or assistance animal costs?
Not standard pet care. But some costs for certified assistance animals (training, health care) may be included with strong supporting documents.

Q: Is cleaning included?
Yes, if it’s part of your ndis in home support needs due to disability. But general cleaning unrelated to support needs? No.

External Authoritative Resource

For the official breakdown, check out the NDIS Guidelines on Reasonable and Necessary Supports.

Final Thought

If you’re still confused about what NDIS will or won’t fund, don’t beat yourself up. Even seasoned support coordinators double-check the rules. The core message? If a cost is not directly linked to your disability, or something everyone has to pay for, chances are—it’s coming out of your pocket.

And that’s okay. The NDIS is here to level the playing field, not cover life’s every expense.

Just focus on what moves the needle for your goals, your independence, and your daily living. That’s where the real power of the scheme lies.