Core Supports - Consumables

This is the third instalment in our NDIS Funding Categories series where we discuss what plan categories are available and what they can be used for.

The first 4 blogs in the series will cover our Core Supports.

If you haven't already, we highly recommend you read parts 1 and 2 in this series Core Supports - Assistance with Daily Activities and Core Supports - Assistance with Social & Community Participation for information about Core Supports and how they're flexibly used.

Part 3 - Consumables

The Consumables budget under Core Supports is designed to fund any daily or consumable item that may be required to manage the functional impact of your disability. Consumables can also often be referred to as Low Cost Assistive Technology (AT), and are required to cost under $1,500 per item.

Examples of things that can be purchased with your Consumables budget are:

- Nutritional Supplements

- Wound Care Products

- Continence Products

- Low Cost Assistive Technology and Equipment to improve independence or mobility

- Low Cost Assistive Technology and Equipment to improve communication or cognitive ability

- Low Cost Assistive Technology and Equipment related to vision or hearing

- Auslan or Signed English Training

- Assistance Dog Costs

While items that cost under $1,500 generally don't require a quote or any written evidence to be submitted to the NDIS it's recommended to check with your plan manager (if plan managed) before spending money on items that may be seen as everyday items. The NDIS may not fund items like iPads or Laptops if they don't feel there is enough of a link between the item and your disability. For this reason, it's best to check before making the purchase.

It's recommended to also have a letter of recommendation from a therapist or allied health professional for items that you purchase through consumables, though this isn't a requirement for purchase.

Questions? Contact us at admin@hbplanmanagement.com or on 07 4334 0002.