Changes to NDIS activity fees for Queensland NDIS participants

If you are an NDIS participant or you care for somebody with a disability, you’ll be aware of the changes to NDIS funding and supports under the NDIS legislation.

Changes to the NDIS started to roll out from 3 October 2024 and will continue over a 12-month transition period. You can find out more about these changes here.

One area where changes have already been made is for activity fees. If you live in Queensland and access the NDIS, you can no longer use your NDIS funding to pay for activity fees.

Northcott is committed to working with you to help you to understand what this change means for you and what your options are now that the change has occurred. It is a good idea to familiarise yourself with these changes and to speak to your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator about what these changes may mean for you.

What are activity fees?

“Activity fees” refers to the charge NDIS participants pay for accessing activities as part of a service. For example, there may be a charge for accessing an external activity such as ten pin bowling, or for using Northcott resources such as ingredients or art supplies.

What does NDIS funding cover?

There are now clear guidelines about what is and isn’t covered under the NDIS. Generally speaking, if the task or activity relates to your disability support needs, and where it is reasonable and necessary, NDIS funding may be used to fund it.

In relation to activities, you will now need to pay out-o- pocket expenses for:

• activity and entry fees for yourself
• activity and entry fees for your worker, if you do not have a Companion Card or a Companion Card is not accepted at the place you attend
• public transport fares for yourself
• public transport fares for your worker if you do not have a Companion Card
• food and drinks during the activity
• specialised equipment that you require for your support needs during the activity
• personal care products that you require for your support needs during the activity.

Non-NDIS supports or activities like cruises, tickets to theme parks, sporting events, movies and theatre shows you agree to attend will need to be paid for out-of-pocket. These will need to be purchased in advance and you can speak to your Northcott coordinator about how you can pay for these tickets.

At Northcott, there are several ways you can pay for out-of-pocket activity fees including cash, card or fee for service (invoiced). Please speak to your Northcott coordinator to discuss the best option for you.

Who should be aware of these changes and when do they take place?

This change is only relevant to Northcott customers living in Queensland. Previously activity fees in Queensland were covered by NDIS funding.

This change was rolled out by NDIS on 3 October 2024. Northcott customers will need to move to this change by the end of January 2025. Your Northcott coordinator will contact you to confirm your preferences for out-of-pocket payments.

In NSW, activity fees have never been covered by NDIS funding. Northcott customers living in NSW will continue to pay for activity fees out-of-pocket.

You can find more information on our Service Disclosure Statement located here.