NDIS Replacement Supports: What You Need to Know About the Latest Changes

With the recent changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) taking effect from 3rd October 2024, the list of what is and isn’t covered under the NDIS is now more clearly defined. While the guidelines are more structured, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) acknowledges that support needs vary for each participant. To address this, the agency has introduced a category called Replacement Supports, allowing participants to swap out existing supports in their plans for alternatives that better meet their needs—so long as they adhere to certain criteria.

What Are Replacement Supports?

Replacement Supports are items or services that participants can use instead of existing supports in their NDIS plan. These are not additional supports but rather substitutes that must meet specific conditions to be approved.

When Can a Replacement Support Be Considered?

A replacement support may be approved if:

• It replaces an existing NDIS support in your plan.

• It provides the same or a better level of assistance.

• It costs the same or less than the original support.

The core requirement is that the replacement support meets your disability needs without increasing your overall NDIS budget.

Why Are Replacement Supports Approved?

Replacement Supports are designed to improve participants’ independence and reduce their reliance on ongoing assistance. By enabling individuals to manage tasks more effectively, these supports help lessen the need for costly or labor-intensive services.

The NDIA is more likely to approve Replacement Supports if they:

• Promote greater independence.

• Help participants perform daily tasks without external assistance.

• Reduce the need for continued support from a worker or caregiver.

Example: Tablet for Accessibility or Communication

Why It May Be Allowed: Whilst a iPad or tablet is now on the no list of supports it doesn’t mean this may not be appropriate to your specific needs. By obtaining a tablet to use as an alternative communication device for a participant with complex communication needs, this would replace another type of support like relying on a more expensive, specialized communication device.

How to Apply for a Replacement Support

If you believe a Replacement Support could be beneficial for you, you must submit the Application for Replacement Support form to the NDIS. Some basic information about how to complete this request can be found here. Before completing your request consider:

• Whether the new support meets the criteria outlined by the NDIA.

• How the replacement will improve your independence.

• Whether the cost aligns with your current NDIS budget.

If you are satisfied that your situation meets the criteria you will need to gather some supporting documents and plan for your submission.

You will need to provide:

• The type of replacement support you’re requesting
• Which NDIS support(s) from your plan you want to replace or partly replace
• How the replacement support will work the same or better for you than the support it’s replacing
• The cost of the replacement support including any set up or ongoing costs:
• If replacing support worker hours, the type and numbers of hours being replaced
• An optional quote.

Need Help? Speak to an Expert

If you’re considering a Replacement Support, it’s best to discuss your options with your support coordinator or reach out directly to the NDIA. Ensuring that your replacement item aligns with your existing plan can make the approval process smoother and help you transition to a more suitable support system.

For personalised assistance, contact our team at Complete Money Management on 1800 161 489.