Clearing Up the Misconception: Exercise Physiology and NDIS Funding

At Rebound Health, we’ve encountered a common misconception among participants, planners, support coordinators, and plan managers: that exercise physiology is not an approved NDIS support item. This misunderstanding can result in participants losing access to vital services that are not only recognised by the NDIS but also critical in helping them achieve their goals.

Our aim is to provide clarity on how exercise physiology fits into the NDIS framework and equip participants and stakeholders with the information they need to advocate effectively for these supports.

What Does the NDIS Say About Exercise Physiology?

The NDIS funds Capacity Building Supports, which are designed to improve participants’ independence, health, and wellbeing. Exercise physiology services fall under the Capacity Building categories of:

  • Improved Health and Wellbeing, and

  • Improved Daily Living Skills,
    depending on the participant’s specific goals and needs.

Key NDIS References

  1. NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits
    Exercise physiology is explicitly listed under:

    • Improved Health and Wellbeing (Item Reference: 12_027_0126_3_3), and

    • Improved Daily Living Skills (Item Reference: 15_200_0128_1_3).

    These supports include services delivered by accredited exercise physiologists to address health concerns, build functional capacity, and help participants achieve their goals.

  2. NDIS Supports Lists
    Recent legislative changes introduced two distinct lists: one outlining supports the NDIS will fund and another clarifying those it will not. Exercise physiology is included as an approved service funded by the NDIS, with specific details available on page 12 of the document.

  3. NDIS Practice Standards
    These standards highlight the importance of providing health services that promote participant outcomes, emphasising access to qualified allied health professionals such as accredited exercise physiologists.

Why Exercise Physiology Is Vital for NDIS Participants

Exercise physiology is more than just exercise; it’s an evidence-based intervention delivered by accredited professionals to:

  • Manage and prevent chronic conditions,

  • Build functional capacity, and

  • Promote both physical and mental wellbeing.

Who Benefits?

  • Participants with physical and neurological disabilities: Strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and reduce the risk of secondary health complications.

  • Participants with intellectual, psychosocial, and neurodevelopmental disabilities: Enhance motor skills, reduce anxiety, and increase daily participation through structured movement programs.

  • Participants with chronic conditions: Manage health concerns such as diabetes, osteoporosis, cardiovascular, or respiratory issues.

Debunking Common Myths

Myth 1: “Exercise physiology is not explicitly funded by the NDIS.”

Fact: Exercise physiology is explicitly recognised in the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. While it may not always appear in plans by name, it is fundable under broader categories like Improved Health and Wellbeing or Improved Daily Living Skills, provided it aligns with participant goals.

Myth 2: “Participants need a specific line item in their plan for exercise physiology.”

Fact: Participants do not require a specific line item for exercise physiology unless their Capacity Building budget includes stated supports for another service, such as physiotherapy or occupational therapy. In those cases, funding cannot be redirected.

Myth 3: “Exercise physiology isn’t necessary for NDIS participants.”

Fact: Exercise physiology addresses barriers to achieving independence, mobility, and participation. It is a targeted intervention that significantly improves functional outcomes, making it an essential support for many participants.

What Participants and Support Teams Can Do

  1. Link Exercise Physiology to Participant Goals
    Ensure participant goals highlight areas where exercise physiology directly contributes, such as:

    • Improving mobility to access the community,

    • Managing chronic conditions to reduce hospital visits, or

    • Enhancing endurance for greater independence.

  2. Use the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits to Justify Services
    Reference the relevant support categories when advocating for funding.

  3. Provide Evidence
    Share detailed reports from exercise physiologists that demonstrate how these services align with participant goals and improve outcomes.

  4. Advocate Through Plan Reviews
    If funding has been removed, request a plan review and present evidence justifying the inclusion of exercise physiology.

Closing the Gap in Understanding

At Rebound Health, we’re committed to ensuring exercise physiology is recognised as an essential NDIS support. By working together with participants, families, and support teams, we aim to bridge the knowledge gap and secure funding for these vital services.

If you or someone you know is facing challenges with NDIS funding for exercise physiology, we’re here to help. Contact us for guidance on navigating the system and advocating for the supports you need.

For further details, consult the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.

Rebound Health: Supporting your journey to better health and independence.

Andrew DaubneyRebound Health - Brookvale (Pittwater Road)