Personal Hygiene Services in the NDIS: What You Need to Know

Maintaining personal hygiene is an essential part of daily living. For many NDIS participants, receiving support with daily living tasks, including personal hygiene activities, allows them to live more independently. Under the NDIS, funding is available for personal hygiene supports when it is considered reasonable and necessary for a participant’s individual needs. However, not all personal care services qualify for funding. 

What Personal Hygiene Services Are Funded by the NDIS? 

The NDIS funds personal hygiene services that help participants maintain their well-being and independence at home and in the community. These supports must be delivered by appropriate and qualified professionals. 

Examples of NDIS-funded personal hygiene supports include: 

• Showering and bathing  

• Hair washing and drying 

• Fingernail and toenail cutting and cleaning 

• Shaving 

• Teeth cleaning 

• Assistive technology that makes personal care tasks easier and safer 

These services fall under Assistance With Self-Care Activities in the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL) and can be included in a participant’s NDIS plan when deemed reasonable and necessary. 

What Personal Hygiene Services Are NOT Funded? 

The NDIS does not fund services related to beauty, cosmetic, or non-essential grooming treatments. These are considered personal lifestyle choices rather than disability-related needs. 

Examples of services that are not NDIS-funded include: 

• Haircuts, treatments, styling, dyeing, extensions, weaving, hair transplants, and wigs 

• Manicures, pedicures, false nail application, nail decorations, and nail piercings 

• Hand and foot massages 

• Makeup applications and cosmetic accessories 

• Cosmetic treatments like waxing, laser hair removal, anti-wrinkle injections, and dermal filler 

If a service is considered a general personal preference rather than a necessity due to a disability, it will likely not be funded by the NDIS.

As your NDIS plan manager, we can help you navigate funding rules and ensure you receive the right supports for your personal care needs. If you have any questions about your plan or need assistance, reach out to us today!