As NDIS Plan Managers we are trained to know budgets. Whilst the NDIS funds disability specific supports, we understand that the cost of living is continuously rising, and household budgets are stretched. We have compiled a list of programs, subsidies, and concessions you may not be aware of that can assist in easing those cost-of-living pressures.
- Mental Health Treatment Plan
A Mental Health Treatment Plan lets you claim up to 20 sessions with a mental health professional per year. Your GP will assess what help you need and create a plan accordingly. For more information visit: What’s covered by Medicare – Mental health care and Medicare – Services Australia
2. Chronic Disease Management Plan
Available to patients living with a chronic medical condition, chronic disease management plans allow patients access to 5 services with an Allied Health Professional. Patients must be referred by a GP and the 5 services available per calendar year can be used for 1 allied health service type or a combination of service types. For further details on the services available visit: Department of Health | Chronic Disease Management – Individual Allied Health Services under Medicare – Patient Information
3. Taxi Subsidy
Each State and territory within Australia have their own scheme which allows a subsidy of taxi fares to eligible residents. There are variations to eligibility and entitlements throughout the different states and territories. For information on the taxi/transport subsidy search under taxi subsidy in your relevant state or territory.
4. Community Organisations
In Australia we are lucky to have access to a wide variety of local community organisations. Services are low to no cost and vary between different community organisations but can include educational programs, social groups for different ages and interests, support groups, advocacy and many more services. You can research what is available in your local area via: https://www.mycommunitydirectory.com.au/
5. Active Kids Sporting Vouchers
Similar to the taxi subsidy, each state or territory within Australia has their own sporting voucher program aimed at encouraging physical activity and sporting participation in children.
ACT: There is currently no program in place in the ACT but there is information to suggest it may be coming soon.
NSW: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/active-kids-faqs-parents-guardians-and-carers
QLD: https://www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/fairplay/apply
SA: https://www.sportsvouchers.sa.gov.au/
TAS: https://www.communities.tas.gov.au/ticket-to-play
VIC: https://www.getactive.vic.gov.au/vouchers
WA: https://www.wa.gov.au/service/sport-and-recreation/sport-and-fitness-development/apply-kidsport
6. Companion Card
The companion card scheme enables people with a lifelong disability to participate at venues and activities without incurring the cost of a second ticket for their companion. Again, companion card applications are assessed by the individual state or territory you live in. For further details visit: http://www.companioncard.gov.au/cardholders_apply.htm
7. No Interest Loans
The no interest loan scheme provides access to those on low incomes to affordable credit. Loans can be approved for essential items which may include household items (think furniture & appliances), educational supplies, medical & dental services and car repairs. There are a range of providers throughout Australian and eligibility criteria apply. For more information: https://moneysmart.gov.au/loans/no-interest-loans
Finally, there are a number of concessions, rebates, and subsidy schemes available for people living within the different states and territories of Australia (far too many to name individually). Included below are the links to government subsidies/concessions in each state/territory of Australia.
ACT: https://www.actsmart.act.gov.au/energy-saving/rebatessubsidies
NSW: https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/services/concessions-rebates-and-assistance
NT: https://nt.gov.au/community/concessions-and-payments/nt-concession-scheme
QLD: https://campaigns.premiers.qld.gov.au/smart-savings/
SA: https://www.sa.gov.au/topics/care-and-support/concessions-and-grants/concessions
TAS: https://www.concessions.tas.gov.au/
VIC: https://services.dffh.vic.gov.au/concessions-and-benefits
WA: https://concessions.communities.wa.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx
