Physiotherapist Disability: A Practical Guide for Australians
Last updated 31 October 2026 · 7 min read · By Sarah M., Support Coordinator
In short
A physiotherapist for disability support is an allied health professional who helps people with movement, strength, balance and mobility, and physiotherapy for people with disability can be funded through the NDIS if you meet the NDIS access requirements. This guide explains what physiotherapists do, how funding works and how to prepare. For the wider picture, see our guide to allied health for disability.
Key points
Physiotherapist disability support focuses on movement, strength, balance and everyday mobility, and a physiotherapist works with you to set goals that suit your life.
From 24 September 2026, the national hourly price limit for direct therapy from a physiotherapist is $183.99 under the NDIS Pricing Schedule.
NDIS funding is conditional, so you need to meet the NDIS access requirements before therapy can be included in a plan.
Support workers do not replace a physiotherapist, but they can help you attend sessions and follow a program your therapist has set.
Physiotherapist and disability at a glance
What it is
Allied health support for movement, strength, balance and mobility
Who provides it
A qualified physiotherapist who talks with you about your goals
Physiotherapy for people with disability: what a physiotherapist does
Physiotherapist disability support looks at how your body moves and how that affects the things you want to do each day.
A physiotherapist talks with you about your goals, such as walking in the community, standing to dress or moving safely around your home.
They assess movement, strength, posture and balance, then explain what they found in plain language so you can decide what to work on.
Sessions may happen at a clinic, at home, at school or in the community, depending on your goals and what your plan allows.
Your therapist may suggest a home program, and you choose how much support you want from family members or support workers.
Bring a list of questions and any previous reports to your first appointment, so the physiotherapist can see your history.
Physiotherapy for disability: who can benefit from a physiotherapist
Physiotherapy is used by many people with different types of disability, and what it looks like depends on the person.
Situation
What a physiotherapist may discuss with you
Children and young people
Movement skills, play, mobility aids and taking part at school
Adults with long-term mobility needs
Strength, balance, getting around the home and community
People using wheelchairs or walking aids
Posture, transfers, equipment fit and safe use
Older people with disability
Falls prevention, staying active and safe movement at home
A physiotherapist, GP or specialist can talk with you about whether physiotherapy suits your situation.
Physiotherapist disability funding under the NDIS
If you meet the NDIS access requirements, physiotherapy may be included in your plan. Your planner or support coordinator can explain how it fits with your goals.
Check your eligibility on the NDIS page Am I eligible before you plan for therapy funding.
Ask your planner or support coordinator whether therapy hours are in your plan and under which funding category.
Providers who charge NDIA-managed and plan-managed participants must stay within NDIS price limits, so ask for a quote before you start.
Keep reports and progress notes, as they can be useful at your next plan review.
Looking for NDIS support at home?
TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.
Rehabilitation brings several professionals together after injury, illness or a change in health.
When to talk to a GP or specialist
You notice a change in strength, balance or movement that is new or getting harder for you day to day.
You have had a fall or are worried about falling at home or in the community.
Pain is affecting sleep, work, school or your ability to take part in activities.
You are unsure whether physiotherapy or another kind of allied health support would suit your goals.
Equipment such as a walking aid or wheelchair no longer feels comfortable or safe to use. Call 000 in an emergency.
Looking for NDIS support at home?
TQN Care support workers help with personal care, community access, respite and help around the home across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC). Tell us what you need and we will call you back.
At TQN Care, we provide support workers for personal care, community access, respite and help around the home, and we do not provide physiotherapy. You can read about TQN Care NDIS services or make a referral, and we will call you to talk through what you need.
SM
Sarah M., Support CoordinatorTQN Care is a registered NDIS provider supporting people across Sydney, Melbourne and surrounding areas (NSW & VIC).
Common questions
FAQs about physiotherapy and disability
What is physiotherapy for people with disability? +
Physiotherapy for people with disability is allied health support that focuses on movement, strength, balance and mobility. A physiotherapist works with you to set goals and explains options in plain language. Your GP or specialist can tell you whether it suits your situation.
Does the NDIS pay for physiotherapy for disability? +
It can, if you meet the NDIS access requirements and therapy is included in your plan. From 24 September 2026, the national hourly price limit for direct therapy from a physiotherapist is $183.99. Ask your planner or support coordinator what your plan includes.
How do I know if I am eligible for the NDIS? +
The NDIS explains the access requirements on its Am I eligible page. You can check there before you apply. If you are unsure, ask your GP, a support coordinator or the NDIS for help with the evidence you need.
Can a support worker help me with physiotherapy? +
A support worker can help you travel to appointments and practise a home program your physiotherapist has set, if that is in your support plan. They do not give therapy or change your program. Talk to your physiotherapist about what is appropriate.