NDIS Assistance Animals
NDIS Assistance Dogs
Guide, Hearing and Assistance dogs are trained to enhance the quality of life of vision or hearing impaired, and/or physically or mentally challenged persons whilst still maintaining as much independence for the handler. This means that the dog will be a permanent working companion for the disabled handler and will assist with a myriad of guide, noise alert or task work but whilst still having the handler work and interact as much as physically or mentally possible.
We specialise in Assistance Animal NDIS applications from start to finish. We will support coordinate the process for you, and have a team of skilled professionals who will collaborate to give you the best outcome.
What will I need start the Process?
- Your NDIS approved disability List
- A copy of your Plan- goals and funding
- Who recommended you get an Assistance Animal
- What will you use the Assistance Animal for?
Assistance Animals & NDIS
What is an Assistance Animal?
Assistance animals are animals specially trained by an accredited assistance animal provider to help people with disabilities complete daily tasks and live more independently. Unlike other Animals they have a level of training and certification that allows them to access public areas, like schools, shops, planes and restaurants.
Assistance Dogs
The most common form of Assistance Animals are Assistance Dogs. They include Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs, PTSD Dogs,Mobility Dogs, ASD Dogs, Medical Alert Dogs. Each service dog is highly trained and tested to ensure they are able to be qualified in their specific area. They have public access rights, and can be funded via the NDIS.
Will NDIS fund Assistance Animals?
Yes the NDIS do fund the full cost of an Assistance Animal, plus its annual ongoing maintenance costs. The NDIS has developed a criteria to ensure the Assistance Animal meets:
- Training requirements for Assistance Animals
- State and federals Legislative requirements
- It is effective and beneficial for you.
- has been trained individual to meet your disability needs.
- And is reasonable and necessary in relation to your disability.
Training of Assistance Dogs
The NDIS will only approve and fund Assistance Animals that have been, or are being trained by an accredited assistance animal provider. The provider must be able to show evidence they’re accredited to train and qualify an assistance animal.
The NDIS will NOT Fund...
Companion Animals
Pets and companion animals kept for company or fun.
Emotional Support Animals
An animal that provides emotional and informal support.
Therapy Animals
An animal that takes part in therapy activities that are led by a therapist.
Facility Animals
An animal that may or may not live onsite and is trained to work in a specific facility or type of facility, such as a residential care home or school.
Visitation Animals
An animal that belongs to a volunteer or provider and is trained to visit residential, health, or educational facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. To meet the NDIS funding criteria, your dog must be provided by a registered and approved supplier.
No – the NDIS will not pay for a dog trainer from your funding.
No – using your funds in areas that they are not allocated will put you at risk of losing self management of your funds, and you may have to pay the NDIS and/or face legal proceeding’s.
The NDIS will pay for Assistance Animals for children, and the process in the same as for adults.
Yes the NDIS will pay for the extra costs incurred such as insurance, vet visits, premium food and additional training and certification.
Yes – If you have a qualified Assistance Animal you can claim for the ongoing maintaince funding.
Yes – many people will have Assistance animals gifted to them or funded by private organisations. However it is becoming more common to apply via the NDIS.
Whilst your LAC can tell you what they believe the NDIS will typically fund, this doesn’t mean you still can not apply.
It is hard to know exactly how long the process will take as factors like your location, funds already available and the type of support documentation you require will change the time.
How do I apply?
The NDIS process of applying for Assistance Animals can be found on the NDIS website – click here.
However, the simplest way is to contact us directly.