How to Access NDIS Physiotherapy Services

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Accessing NDIS physiotherapy services in Melbourne is often easier than many participants expect. Under the NDIS, physiotherapy falls within the “Therapeutic Supports” category, part of Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living. These supports are delivered by qualified, AHPRA-registered physiotherapists who help participants improve movement, manage pain, and enhance daily independence through tailored exercise, rehabilitation, and mobility programs.

If you’d like a deeper understanding of how NDIS-funded therapy can support your long-term wellbeing, explore our guide on Improved Daily Living Through NDIS-Funded Therapy in 2025.

Participants in Melbourne can choose how and where their support is delivered, including in-clinic appointments or mobile physiotherapy sessions at home or in the community. The NDIS allows for provider travel claims, making flexible care possible wherever it’s most convenient.

This guide breaks down the essential steps to access NDIS physiotherapy services in Melbourne, from confirming eligibility to booking your first appointment with a qualified physiotherapist from Roaming Therapy.

Step 1: Confirm Your NDIS Eligibility and Plan Funding

Before you can start accessing NDIS physiotherapy services, make sure you’re an approved NDIS participant with plan funding that covers therapeutic supports such as physiotherapy. This first step sets the foundation for getting the right care that meets your needs and goals.

Here’s what to check:

  • Confirm your NDIS status: You must be an active participant under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
  • Review your NDIS plan: Look for funding under Capacity Building Supports, particularly the Improved Daily Living or Improved Health and Wellbeing categories, where NDIS physiotherapy services are usually included.
  • Understand what’s included: Funding can cover:
    • Initial physiotherapy assessments and goal setting
    • Ongoing therapy sessions
    • Exercise programs and mobility or strength training
    • Progress reviews and reports
  • Know that plans are personalised: The amount and type of physiotherapy support depend on your individual goals, functional needs, and daily living requirements.

Tip: If you’re unsure whether physiotherapy is part of your plan, talk to your plan manager or support coordinator. They can confirm your coverage and help you connect with a qualified NDIS physiotherapist.

For greater flexibility, consider a mobile physiotherapy option. Roaming Therapy is a Melbourne mobile physio provider that offers physiotherapy at home, allowing you to receive expert care without travelling, ideal for participants who value comfort, convenience, and consistency.

If you’re new to the NDIS or want a step-by-step breakdown of the process, check out our Essential Guide for NDIS Physiotherapy to better understand funding, eligibility, and therapy types.

Step 2: Identify and Choose an NDIS Physiotherapy Provider

Once your NDIS funding is confirmed, the next step is selecting a provider that makes accessing NDIS physiotherapy services easy and personalised. That’s where Roaming Therapy can help.

As a trusted Melbourne-based provider, Roaming Therapy specialises in mobile physiotherapy and physiotherapy at home, supporting participants across the city with convenient, goal-driven care.

Here’s how to choose the right provider (and why many choose Roaming Therapy):

  • Experienced NDIS Provider: Roaming Therapy is a trusted NDIS physiotherapy provider in Melbourne, meaning we can support participants under self-managed and plan-managed plans.
  • Therapy built around your goals: Whether you’re improving mobility, recovering from injury, or enhancing independence, our team tailors your plan to your unique needs.
  • Flexible service delivery: We bring therapy to you through:
    • Mobile physiotherapy Melbourne-wide – Delivered wherever you’re most comfortable.
    • In-home sessions – Ideal for participants who prefer consistent, private, and practical care.
    • Community visits – For those who benefit from exercises in real-life settings.
  • Local and accessible: Our Melbourne mobile physio team covers a wide service area, ensuring prompt appointments and consistent support.
  • Clear communication and updates: Roaming Therapy provides transparent reporting and coordination, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Tip: When choosing an NDIS service provider, make sure they understand your goals, funding setup, and preferred therapy environment. With Roaming Therapy, you get all three: personalised care, convenience, and expert support from a local team that comes to you, wherever you are in Melbourne.

If you’re based in North Melbourne, our blog on Finding the Right Physio in North Melbourne Using Your NDIS Plan provides detailed insights into local provider options and how to maximise your NDIS benefits.

Choosing Roaming Therapy means accessing NDIS physiotherapy services that fit your lifestyle, helping you build strength, independence, and confidence, one session at a time.

Step 3: Schedule and Prepare for Your Initial Physiotherapy Assessment

After confirming your funding and selecting a provider, it’s time to schedule your first session. With Roaming Therapy, getting started with NDIS physiotherapy services is simple, flexible, and tailored to your goals.

Our friendly team helps you book your initial physiotherapy assessment at a time and place that suits you whether that’s in your home, community space, or another preferred setting.

Here’s what to expect during your first session:

  • Personalised assessment: Your NDIS physiotherapist will evaluate your mobility, daily function, and goals to design a therapy plan suited to your needs.
  • Goal setting: Together, you’ll outline outcomes such as improving balance, reducing pain, or building independence.
  • Guided movement or functional activities: Your physiotherapist may include light exercises or mobility tasks suited to your ability and comfort level.
  • Home exercise recommendations: You may receive simple activities to continue progress between visits.
  • Safety and comfort check: Your therapist will ensure your environment is suitable and safe for home-based therapy.

At Roaming Therapy, we specialise in mobile physiotherapy across Melbourne, making it easy to access care where you feel most comfortable. Whether you prefer sessions at home or in your community, our flexible approach ensures your NDIS supports fit seamlessly into your everyday life.

If you live in regional Victoria or near the Bass Coast, explore our detailed guide on Accessing Physiotherapy in Wonthaggi for insights on local NDIS pricing and service options.

Understanding Funding and Management Options

When accessing NDIS physiotherapy services, it’s important to understand how your funding is managed. The NDIS offers three main management types: self-managed, plan-managed, and NDIA-managed. Each option affects how you choose your provider, handle payments, and book your therapy sessions.

1. Self-Managed

If your NDIS plan is self-managed, you have the most flexibility and control. You can choose any physiotherapist, whether or not they are a registered NDIS provider. This means you can easily work with mobile physiotherapy professionals or local clinics offering Melbourne mobile physio services.

You pay providers directly, then claim the cost back from your NDIS funding. This is a great choice for participants who prefer to manage their own budget and want the freedom to select specialists across different suburbs, from physio in North Melbourne to NDIS providers in Melton or Frankston.

2. Plan-Managed

In a plan-managed arrangement, your NDIS plan includes a financial intermediary (plan manager) who handles all payments and invoices on your behalf. You can still choose between registered and non-registered NDIS physiotherapy services, giving you flexibility while removing the administrative burden.

Plan-managed participants often find this option helpful when working with mobile physiotherapy Melbourne services, as the plan manager ensures providers are paid correctly and on time.

3. NDIA-Managed

For those with an NDIA-managed plan, the NDIA pays providers directly, but only if they are NDIS-registered. This means you must select from approved NDIS physiotherapy providers. While this option offers less flexibility, it ensures compliance, accountability, and consistent pricing based on the official NDIS Price Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About NDIS Physiotherapy Services

Do I need a GP referral to access NDIS physiotherapy services?

No, a GP referral isn’t required to start NDIS physiotherapy services. You only need an approved NDIS plan that includes funding for physiotherapy. However, medical reports or referrals from your GP can help your physiotherapist design a program suited to your needs.

The NDIS covers physiotherapy when it helps improve function, mobility, or independence. Funded supports often include assessments, manual therapy, exercise programs, and mobility aid prescriptions. These can be delivered in clinics or through mobile physiotherapy sessions at home.

Yes. Roaming Therapy offer mobile physiotherapy in Melbourne, making therapy more convenient for participants who prefer home-based care. Whether you’re looking for a Melbourne mobile physio, physio in North Melbourne, or an NDIS provider in Melton or Frankston, our mobile options ensure flexible, accessible support.

Yes. The NDIS funds physiotherapy under categories like Improved Daily Living or Improved Health and Wellbeing. The amount depends on your plan goals and assessment outcomes. Check your plan or speak with your NDIS coordinator to confirm your coverage.

NDIS physiotherapy services support a wide range of conditions, including cerebral palsy, autism, stroke, spinal injuries, and chronic pain. Each plan is tailored to help participants improve movement, confidence, and daily independence.

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