Can I Use My NDIS Funding for First Aid Kits or Training?
Short answer: Yes, in many cases. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supports the health and safety of participants—including access to first aid supplies and training. Whether you're a participant, a family member, or a support worker, here's what you need to know about funding essential medical and first aid provisions.
How NDIS Categories Can Cover First Aid
- Core Supports – Consumables: First aid items may be covered if they directly support the participant’s disability. Think wound care, burn treatments, or seizure-specific kits.
- Capacity Building – Improved Health & Wellbeing: Used for first aid training for the participant or their care network.
- Capacity Building – Training & Assessments: Can fund training for support workers helping participants with high needs.
Key Considerations
- Direct Link to Disability: Items must relate directly to the participant’s needs.
- Reasonable and Necessary: Must support independence, safety, or participation.
- Value for Money: The item should deliver clear benefits for the cost.
Why This Matters: First Aid = Independence
Preparedness means freedom. A young adult with epilepsy can feel more confident going out if their kit includes seizure-specific care and their support worker is trained. A child with severe allergies can feel safe playing at the park with an allergy-specific first aid kit. The right first aid gear supports participation, confidence, and quality of life.
How to Get First Aid Funded
- Identify your needs with the help of your GP or therapist
- Bring it up at your plan review meeting
- Gather medical documentation that shows it’s necessary
- Source items from NDIS-eligible suppliers like us
- Use a free checklist to customise your supplies
- Ask your plan manager how to process the expense
What You Can Claim
- Basic or specialist first aid kits (e.g. allergy-specific)
- Replacement first aid supplies like dressings, gloves, or blankets
- Trauma kits for complex needs or remote access
- First aid training for participants or carers
Recommended Resources
- NDIS Official Website
- Safe Work Australia
- Healthdirect Australia
- Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC)
Helpful Downloads
Stay in the Know
Want more practical info like this? Join our newsletter or use the chat feature on our site to speak directly to me, Samantha.
Author Bio
Written by Samantha, Director of Assurance First Aid Kits
EMT, Trainer & Assessor. With over 20 years in first aid compliance training across Dubbo and regional NSW, Samantha helps families and participants get the tools they need to live safer, more independent lives.
