Media Release by Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC

NDIS participants in lockdown areas to gain greater flexibility for meal preparation and shopping supports

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) has introduced a temporary measure to further support participants during the COVID-19 pandemic, with those in lockdown areas no longer needing to use their support funding to pay someone to cook and shop for them. 

The changes, which came into effect on 10 September, mean participants can now use their funding to pay for alternative meal preparation and delivery services. 

Minister for the NDIS, Senator the Hon Linda Reynolds CSC, said the temporary measure would ensure that at risk participants continued to receive their regular supports, while reducing the need for a worker to come into their home.

“We know many participants have concerns about the risk of COVID-19, particularly those living in areas where there are current Delta outbreaks,” Minister Reynolds said.

“This support will ensure participants can still access their meal preparation supports, while reducing their risk of exposure to COVID-19.”

The temporary measure is available to participants who:

  • Currently use some of their existing core funding to pay for a support worker  to help them prepare meals, or help with shopping;
  • Live in an area with ‘stay at home’ public health orders in place.

The measure will be in place until 1 December, when it will be reviewed.

This latest initiative follows a suite of measures introduced by the NDIA to support participants, workers and providers affected by COVID-19, to ensure participant health, safety, and continuity of supports.