NDIS Consumables Explained: Can You Claim Meal Delivery?
If you're an NDIS participant trying to work out what NDIS consumables actually cover, you're not alone. The term can feel confusing, especially when you're wondering whether meal delivery fits the bill. Here's the good news: while consumables typically refer to everyday items like continence products or wound care supplies, meal preparation and delivery falls under a different (and often more accessible) category of support. Understanding how these categories work can help you access the nutrition support you need without the guesswork. Let's break down what consumables really mean, and how meal delivery services like Nourish'd can support your daily living goals.
What Are NDIS Consumables?
NDIS consumables are disability-related, everyday-use items funded under Core Supports. Some low-cost, low-risk assistive technology can also be purchased through this budget, and low-cost AT is under $1,500 per item.
Common examples of NDIS consumables include:
- Continence aids such as catheters, absorbent pads, and bed protectors
- Wound care supplies, including bandages, dressings, and barrier creams
- Nutritional supplements for disability-related dietary needs
- Low-cost assistive technology and adaptive eating tools
It's worth noting that the NDIS won't fund general living expenses such as groceries, prescription medications, or gym memberships; these are costs everyone incurs regardless of disability status.
Consumables vs Meal Delivery: What's the Difference?
Here's where things get clearer: meal delivery isn't funded through the Consumables category. Instead, it falls under Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Living. This distinction matters because it means meal preparation and delivery have their own funding pathway, one that's often easier to access than you might think.
The relevant line items are 01_022_0120_1_1 (which requires a quote) and 01_023_0120_1_1 (which doesn't need a quote). Since March 2022, the NDIS has no longer required quotes for most meal preparation and delivery services, making it easier to access this support.
Key differences at a glance:
- Consumables: Physical products you use and replace (continence supplies, wound care items)
- Meal Delivery: A service that prepares and delivers meals to support daily living tasks
The NDIS funds the preparation and delivery of meals, not the food ingredients themselves. This means you'll typically pay a co-payment (around 30%) to cover the cost of ingredients, while your NDIS funding covers the remaining 70% for preparation and delivery.
How Does NDIS Meal Delivery Work?
Meal preparation and delivery through the NDIS is designed to help participants who cannot prepare meals themselves due to their disability. The NDIS Transitional Supports list describes it as support that assists with essential household tasks a participant cannot do themselves due to their disability.
To be eligible, your NDIS plan typically needs to include:
- 'Daily Activities' or 'Assistance with Daily Life' in your Core Supports
- A stated line item for 'Assistance with the cost of preparation and delivery of meals'
- Core Support funding that can be used flexibly for this purpose
If you're unsure whether meal delivery is included in your plan, you can contact your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Support Coordinator for clarification. They can confirm whether your Core Supports can be used for meal preparation and delivery.
Understanding the Co-Payment Structure
When you order meals through an NDIS-registered provider, you'll typically see your invoice split into two parts. The NDIS portion (usually around 70%) covers meal preparation, packaging, and delivery. The participant contribution (approximately 30%) covers the cost of ingredients, as food is considered an everyday expense everyone pays for. This structure ensures you're receiving quality, nutritious meals while staying within NDIS pricing arrangements and guidelines.
Why Proper Nutrition Matters for NDIS Participants
Good nutrition plays a vital role in managing many disabilities and chronic conditions. Research from Eat For Health Australia shows that a balanced diet supports energy levels, immune function, and overall wellbeing. For people living with disability, maintaining proper nutrition can be even more crucial, yet preparing meals from scratch isn't always possible.
Whether you're managing fatigue, mobility challenges, or simply need more time and energy for other daily activities, having nutritious meals delivered can make a real difference. The Australian Dietary Guidelines emphasise that eating well doesn't have to be complicated; it's about consistency and access to quality ingredients.
What to Look for in an NDIS Meal Provider
Not all meal delivery services are created equal, especially when it comes to NDIS funding. Choosing a registered provider gives you confidence that your meals meet quality and safety standards while ensuring your invoices are properly formatted for claims.
When selecting an NDIS meal provider, consider:
- NDIS Registration: Registered providers meet strict national standards for quality, safety, and accountability
- Dietary Options: Look for providers offering gluten-free, dairy-free, low-sodium, or other specialised meals that suit your needs
- Transparent Pricing: Clear invoices that separate preparation/delivery costs from ingredient costs
- Fresh, Quality Ingredients: Meals made without preservatives or artificial additives
- Flexible Ordering: No lock-in contracts or minimum commitment periods
Why Nourish'd Works for NDIS Participants
At Nourish'd, we're proud to be a fully registered NDIS meal provider, delivering fresh, chef-prepared meals across Australia. Every meal is 100% gluten-free and Coeliac Australia-endorsed, made without preservatives or added sugars. We understand that managing dietary requirements alongside disability support shouldn't be stressful, which is why we've made the process as straightforward as possible.
Our team works with self-managed, plan-managed, and agency-managed participants. Simply browse our menu, place your order, and select 'Yes' to NDIS funding at checkout. Your invoice will include everything you need to claim under your plan. If you need a quote for your planning meeting, our NDIS Quote Generator makes it easy.
How to Get Meal Delivery in Your NDIS Plan
If meal preparation and delivery aren't currently part of your plan but you believe they would help you achieve your goals, you can request them. The key is to demonstrate that it's 'reasonable and necessary' to meet your disability support needs. Our guide to getting meal delivery in your NDIS plan offers practical steps to help you make a strong case at your next planning meeting.
Steps to request meal delivery support:
- Check your current plan: Look for 'Daily Activities' or 'Assistance with Daily Life' in your Core Supports
- Gather supporting evidence: A letter from your GP, occupational therapist, or dietitian explaining why meal support is necessary
- Submit a Change of Situation form: If meal delivery isn't already listed, you can request it be added
- Prepare for your planning meeting: Bring a quote from your preferred meal provider to ensure adequate funding
Already have meal delivery in your plan? Our tips for keeping meal delivery in your NDIS plan during plan reviews can help ensure continuity of support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose any meal delivery service?
If you're self-managed or plan-managed, you can choose from both registered and unregistered providers. If your plan is agency-managed, you must use NDIS-registered providers like Nourish'd.
Can I use my NDIS consumables budget for meal delivery?
No, meal delivery is funded through Core Supports (Assistance with Daily Living), not the Consumables category. Consumables are for physical items such as continence products and wound care supplies.
Do I need a quote for NDIS meal delivery?
Since March 2022, quotes are generally not required for meal preparation and delivery under line item 01_023_0120_1_1. However, having a quote for your planning meeting can help ensure your plan includes adequate funding. Learn more about whether you need an NDIS quote.
Does the NDIS cover the full cost of my meals?
The NDIS covers meal preparation and delivery costs (typically around 70% of the total). You pay a co-payment on food ingredients (approximately 30%), as groceries are considered an everyday expense.
What if my plan doesn't mention meal delivery?
If you have Core Support funding for Daily Activities, you may be able to use it flexibly for meal delivery. Contact your LAC, Support Coordinator, or plan manager to confirm. You can also check if meal prep is in your NDIS plan.
Your Path to Easier, Healthier Mealtimes
While NDIS consumables may not directly cover meals, the good news is that meal preparation and delivery have their own accessible funding pathway through Core Supports. With the right provider, you can enjoy nutritious, delicious meals without the stress of cooking, giving you more time and energy for what matters most. At Nourish'd, we're here to make that process simple. Explore our NDIS meal options today and discover how easy healthy eating can be.
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