Using the NDIS for OT, Speech & Physio
A plain-English guide for families navigating NDIS funding for paediatric allied health therapy.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds reasonable and necessary supports for people with permanent and significant disability — including children with developmental delay, autism, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy and many other conditions.
For most families we work with, NDIS funding covers occupational therapy, speech pathology and physiotherapy — the three disciplines we offer in one place. This page walks you through what's covered, how to access it, and how to use an existing plan with us.
Allied health supports NDIS commonly funds
- Occupational therapy — capacity building, daily living, FCAs
- Speech pathology — communication, language, literacy and social skills
- Physiotherapy — strength, movement, posture, gross motor
- Therapy assistant support where appropriate
- Assessments and reports for plan reviews
- Equipment recommendations and minor home modifications (OT)
Getting NDIS support — step by step
Talk to your GP or paediatrician
Children under 9 with a developmental delay or disability can access support via the NDIS Early Childhood Approach. Older children and adults apply through the standard NDIS access request.
Gather supporting evidence
You'll need recent reports from treating professionals. We complete Functional Capacity Assessments (FCAs) and OT/speech/physio assessments that meet NDIS evidence requirements.
Submit an access request
NDIS contact: 1800 800 110, or apply via the NDIS website. Your Early Childhood Partner or Local Area Coordinator can help.
Plan meeting
Once approved, you'll have a planning conversation to set goals and identify supports. Bring goals like 'communicate needs without frustration', 'participate in school', 'manage daily routines independently'.
Use your plan with us
We work with NDIS self-managed and plan-managed participants for OT, speech and physio. Get in touch and we'll book your first session.
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment?
An FCA documents how your child manages daily activities and is one of the most common pieces of evidence used at NDIS plan review. Our occupational therapists complete FCAs for children, adolescents and adults.
Learn more about FCAsSelf-managed or plan-managed?
We work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. We invoice you (self-managed) or your plan manager (plan-managed) directly after each session at NDIS price guide rates.
Not sure which you are? Check your plan document or ask your Local Area Coordinator — we're happy to help on a free 15-minute call.
Common NDIS questions
Can I use an existing NDIS plan with Square One Therapy Hub?
Yes. We work with self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants for OT, speech pathology and physiotherapy.
What is a Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA)?
An FCA is a comprehensive assessment by an OT that documents how a person manages everyday activities — self-care, mobility, communication, social participation, learning. It's commonly used as evidence at plan review to justify ongoing or increased funding.
How long does it take to get NDIS access?
Timelines vary. The NDIS aims to make access decisions within 21 days of receiving a complete application, but in practice this can take longer. The Early Childhood Approach is typically faster for under-9s.
What if I don't have an NDIS plan yet?
You can still access therapy with us privately, via Medicare CDM (5 rebated sessions per year with a GP care plan) or through private health insurance. We can also complete the assessments needed to support an NDIS access request.
How do I find out what's in my plan budget?
Your plan document (or the my NDIS portal / app) shows your funded supports across Core, Capacity Building and Capital. We can help you understand the categories most relevant to allied health therapy.
Ready to Start Your Therapy Journey?
Speak directly with our director — no obligation, just a friendly chat about how we can help.