If you have an NDIS plan, physiotherapy may be one of the most practical supports you can use to stay mobile, build strength and keep doing the things that matter to you. But many participants tell us the hardest part is not the therapy itself. It is working out how their funding works and how to get started. This guide explains the basics for people living in Burwood, Strathfield, Concord, Ashfield and the wider Inner West.
What Does NDIS Physiotherapy Involve?
NDIS physiotherapy is physiotherapy delivered to an NDIS participant to help them reach goals in their plan. That might mean improving balance and walking, reducing pain, building strength after an injury or surgery, learning safer ways to move, or maintaining function as a condition changes over time. Treatment is tailored to the person, and usually combines hands-on care, exercise programs, education and practice of everyday tasks.
How Plan Funding Works
Therapy supports such as physiotherapy are commonly funded from the Capacity Building budgets in a plan, most often Improved Daily Living, although the right category depends on the participant and their goals. How you can use that funding depends on how your plan is managed:
- NDIA-managed: you can only use providers registered with the NDIS.
- Plan-managed: a plan manager pays invoices, and you can generally use registered or unregistered providers.
- Self-managed: you manage payments yourself and have the most flexibility over providers.
Your plan documents or myplace portal show how your plan is managed and what budget is available. If you are unsure, your support coordinator or plan manager can help.
Questions to Ask Before You Book
- Is the provider able to work with my plan type (NDIA-managed, plan-managed or self-managed)?
- How will sessions be invoiced and how are reports provided?
- Can the physiotherapist help write a progress or functional report for my plan review?
- Where are appointments held, and is there parking or public transport nearby?
Getting the Most From Your Sessions
Bring your plan goals to your first appointment so your physiotherapist can build a program around them. Clear, measurable goals, such as walking to the local shops without a rest or getting up from a chair independently, make it easier to track progress and to show the NDIA the value of the support at your next review. You can read more about the first visit in our guide to what to expect at an NDIS physiotherapy appointment.
This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Funding depends on your individual NDIS plan, goals and the supports the NDIA considers reasonable and necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral for NDIS physiotherapy?
You generally do not need a referral to see a physiotherapist under the NDIS. Your plan, goals and funding are what matter, so bring your plan details to your first appointment.
Can I use NDIS funding at Burwood Physio?
Burwood Physio works with NDIS participants. Call us on 02 8322 9022 with your plan management type and we will explain how funding and invoicing would work for you.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your goals, condition and budget. Your physiotherapist will recommend a realistic number of sessions after your assessment and review progress along the way.
Book NDIS Physiotherapy at Burwood Physio
Ready to get started? Our team supports NDIS participants across the Inner West. Call 02 8322 9022 or book online. We are open Monday to Friday 7am–7pm and Saturday 8am–6pm, at Shop 2, 36–38 Victoria Street East, Burwood, one train stop from Strathfield.
Related: NDIS Physiotherapy at Burwood Physio | NDIS Physiotherapy: What You Are Entitled To | What to Expect at an NDIS Physiotherapy Appointment
Reviewed by the Burwood Physio Clinical Team
BPhty (Hons) | AHPRA Registered Physiotherapists | Member, Australian Physiotherapy Association
Our clinical team has over 20 years of combined experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, sports rehabilitation, and pain management. All content is reviewed for clinical accuracy and updated in line with current evidence-based practice guidelines. Meet our team →
