Consumables can cover the purchase of everyday items that can help you to manage your disability related needs. Which is why it is so important to understand what Consumables are and how to make the most out of your funding.
What are consumables?
Consumables are a budget category that fall under your Core Support funding, which can cover a range of low-cost, low-risk products and services. Consumables can range from low-cost assistive technology to nutritional supplements to personal care and safety products.
Other examples include:
Disposable/multiple-use pants, liners, pads, absorbent products
Pull-ups and nappies
Leg bags
Compression stockings
Step stools
Chair and bed protection
Beds, mattresses, pillows
Catheters
Pumps and syringes involved in home enteral nutrition (HEN) purposes
Bottle openers and knob turners
Food preparation products
Modified eating products/aids
Household cleaning products
Product and equipment delivery, unpacking, labour services
It’s important to note that grocery items that are not related to your disability needs are not considered to be reasonable and necessary and the cost is not covered under your NDIS plan.
Three key things to know about Consumables
1. Low-Cost, Low-Risk
Your consumables budget is focused on low-cost, low-risk items and can cover up to $1500. Over that amount, items would need a quote provided and likely fall into a different category like Capital Supports.
2. Flexible Funding Allocation
Your Core Support funding has four categories – Assistance with Daily Life, Consumables, Assistance with Social and Community Participation, Transport – and your funding is flexible which allows you the choice and control to adjust how much of your Core funding you allocate towards Consumables. If you would like to make adjustments to your funding allocation, speak with our friendly First2Care Support Team or your personal Client Manager.
3. Keep on track
Although our First2Care team can ensure that your budgets are on track and that you aren’t overspending or underspending on your budgets, it’s always a good idea to keep track of your budgets as well. That way, you always know how much funding you have available and can use that funding effectively. To view your budgets, all you need to do is login to your First2Care Plan Magic online portal where you can see updates in real-time or view your monthly budget reports.
Higher Cost Consumables
If you need higher cost items like wheelchairs, communication equipment, bathroom aids and mobility scooters, this may fall under the Capital Supports budget category that covers higher cost Assistive Technology items and Home Modifications. Generally, items that cost above $1500 require a quote that should be provided during your planning meeting or plan review meeting to your Local Area Coordination (LAC) or NDIA planner for funding to be considered for your NDIS plan.
Using your Funding
Before going to your NDIS planning meeting or plan review meeting, it’s likely that you’ve considered what kind of consumables you may needs. Be sure to discuss your needs with your LAC or NDIA planner so that your funding can reflect those needs.
When you have your NDIS plan and know what funding you have for your planning period, talk with your Support Coordinator, LAC or your Plan Manager (that’s us!) about how you can use your funding as it was intended.
Read more about the benefits of working with an independent, professional Plan Manager. Alternatively, contact our friendly team on 1300 322 273 or support@first2care.com.au.