Understanding NDIS Reasonable & Necessary Criteria

“It must be Reasonable & Necessary” seems to be the catch phrase of the NDIS… So, let’s breakdown what that really means.

The NDIS was designed to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities, by providing necessary funding for reasonable and necessary supports in areas such as education, employment, and daily living.

The term "reasonable and necessary" refers to the support or services that are considered essential for a person with a disability to live and participate in their community. These supports must meet certain criteria to be considered reasonable and necessary and be eligible for NDIS funding. What is considered reasonable and necessary may vary for each individual, taking into account their unique circumstances, goals, and aspirations.

Reasonable 

The support or service must be rational and fair, considering all relevant circumstances. It should align with community expectations and not be excessive or extravagant. Reasonable supports are those which a person without a disability might reasonably be expected to need to live an ordinary life.

Necessary

The support or service must be required to address the individual's disability-related needs. It should help improve their functionality, promote independence, and enhance their ability to participate in social and economic activities. Supports are necessary when they directly relate to the person's disability and are likely to be effective and beneficial.

To assess whether a support or service meets the reasonable and necessary criteria, the NDIS takes into account various factors, including the individual's specific circumstances, the goals and aspirations identified by the person, the support needs arising from the person's disability, any relevant assessments or reports, and other information provided by the individual, their families, carers, or health professionals.

The NDIS also uses the 'Sustainable Informal Supports' principle to ensure that formal supports provided are not replacing the usual care and assistance that family, friends, or community members would typically provide. It aims to strike a balance between providing support while promoting the individual's independence and encouraging support from informal sources.

It is important to note that reasonable and necessary supports can vary depending on the individual's specific circumstances and needs.

Want to know if a support or service could be considered reasonable and necessary? Download our Reasonable & Necessary Checklist.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. Remember, your goals are our priority, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. If you ever need assistance, clarification, or simply want to discuss your NDIS plan, don't hesitate to reach out. Our friendly team can be contacted on 1300 890 457 or support@inchoice.com.au.