Funding Options – Quinn Health & Development

We understand that navigating the funding landscape can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand the different ways you can access and fund services like Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Psychology, Behaviour Supports, Support Workers, Employment Services, and Allied Health Assistants.

NDIS

Medicare Rebates

Private Health Insurance

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is the most common funding source for people with disability-related needs in Australia. It provides funding for reasonable and necessary supports across various categories:

You can use your NDIS funding to access:

Speech Pathology – communication, social interaction, swallowing
Occupational Therapy (OT) – daily living skills, sensory regulation, functional independence
Psychology – emotional wellbeing, mental health, behaviour support
Behaviour Supports – positive behaviour strategies and interventions
Support Workers – community access, personal care, life skills
Employment Services – support to explore, find and maintain meaningful work
Allied Health Assistants (AHAs) – therapy program support under guidance from qualified clinicians

NDIS Support Categories commonly used:

Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living: for therapies like OT, speech, psychology
Capacity Building – Improved Relationships: for behaviour support
Capacity Building – Finding and Keeping a Job: for employment-related support
Core Supports: for support workers and some AHA services

Your NDIS Plan may be managed one or more of the following ways:

Self-managed
Plan-managed
NDIA-managed

Some services may be eligible for Medicare rebates, especially when referred by a GP.

Common Medicare pathways include:

Chronic Disease Management Plan (CDMP / formerly EPC) – Up to 5 sessions per calendar year across allied health (e.g., OT, speech, psych)
Better Access Initiative – For psychological therapy via a Mental Health Treatment Plan
Helping Children with Autism (HCWA) / Better Start (limited and legacy schemes)

Note: Gap fees apply

Many private health insurers offer extras cover that includes rebates for allied health services.

Check your policy for details on:

- Which services are covered (e.g., OT, speech, psych)
- Annual limits and rebates per session
- Referral requirements

Need Help Navigating Your Options?

Our team can help you understand your funding, work with your plan manager or coordinator, and tailor supports to your goals. Whether you’re using NDIS, Medicare, private health, or other options – we’re here to support you.

Contact us today to discuss your funding and how we can help you or your child thrive.