Does the NDIS Fund Holidays? What You Need to Know
Does the NDIS Fund Holidays? What You Need to Know
- December 1, 2025
If you’re thinking about taking a holiday and wondering whether the NDIS can help, you’re not alone. Travelling when you have disability-related support needs can feel overwhelming, and it’s natural to ask: “Can I get support? Will I need a support worker? What’s actually covered?” The truth is, the NDIS can support holidays—but only in specific circumstances. Let’s break it down in a clear, practical way so you can feel confident planning your trip.
Understanding NDIS Funding
The NDIS is all about helping people with disability live independently and participate in their communities. It funds supports that are considered “reasonable and necessary” to achieve your goals. This might include therapies, assistive equipment, home modifications, or help with daily activities.
But here’s the catch: the NDIS isn’t a travel fund. Standard holidays—think flights, accommodation, meals, and activities—are usually considered personal expenses. That said, there are situations where the NDIS can contribute, especially if your travel involves disability-related supports.
When the NDIS May Fund Travel or Holidays
NDIS funded holidays aren’t about the trip itself; they’re about ensuring you can participate safely and independently. Here are the main ways the NDIS might step in:
1. Holiday Support Workers
If you need help with personal care, mobility, or daily living tasks while away from home, a holiday support worker may be funded. This means you could have the support you need throughout your trip without paying out of pocket for every hour of assistance. Keep in mind, though, the funding usually covers the support worker’s time and care—it doesn’t pay for flights, hotels, or meals.
2. Specialist Retreats or Therapy Programs
Some structured programs or retreats focus on building independence, social participation, or specific skills. If these programs are directly linked to your NDIS goals, part of the cost might be covered. While not a typical holiday, these experiences can still be enjoyable and meaningful.
3. Travel for Essential Disability-Related Services
In rare cases, if you need to travel to access a necessary service—like specialised therapy unavailable locally—the NDIS may cover travel costs. The key is that the travel must directly support your disability-related needs rather than being purely for leisure.
What the NDIS Usually Doesn’t Cover
It’s important to be realistic. Even with a holiday support worker, the NDIS generally won’t fund:
- Flights, trains, buses, or other transport
- Accommodation or lodging
- Food or everyday personal expenses
- Holiday activities, tours, or entertainment
So, while support for your needs may be funded, the costs of the holiday itself will usually be your responsibility.
How to Plan for NDIS Funded Holidays
Even though the rules are specific, there are ways to make a holiday happen with NDIS support. Here’s how:
2. Document Your Support Needs – Explain why you require assistance while travelling. Include details about your daily routines, care requirements, or mobility needs. Medical or occupational therapy reports can help make your case stronger.
3. Speak with Your NDIS Planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) – Before booking, have a conversation about what’s reasonable and necessary. They can clarify which supports are fundable and advise on getting approval.
4. Plan the Funding Carefully – Funding may cover your holiday support worker’s hours, assistance with disability-related equipment while away, and travel for essential supports. Keep receipts and track hours to meet reporting requirements.
5. Consider Alternative Options – If some costs aren’t covered, there are still ways to make travel happen:
- Community grants or disability travel programs
- Accessible holiday providers
- Pooling resources with family or friends
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Choose Accessible Accommodation: Make sure bathrooms, lifts, and the overall layout meet your needs.
- Plan Activities Thoughtfully: Consider your mobility, energy levels, and support requirements.
- Communicate With Your Holiday Support Worker: Set clear expectations for duties, routines, and care needs.
- Have a Backup Plan: Things don’t always go as expected when travelling. A plan B keeps stress low.
The Bottom Line
So, can the NDIS fund holidays? Yes—but only in certain circumstances. Funding focuses on the support you need, not the holiday itself. With a Holiday Support Worker, you can safely participate in a trip, but flights, accommodation, and most holiday activities are usually not covered.
The best approach is to plan carefully, align your trip with your NDIS goals, and communicate openly with your planner. With preparation, you can enjoy a fun, safe, and meaningful holiday—even when you need extra support.
Remember: the purpose isn’t just a holiday—it’s about independence, participation, and living life to the fullest. That’s exactly what NDIS funded holidays are designed to support.