NDIS Physiotherapy: Considerations for Support Coordinators

When reviewing or preparing NDIS plans, physiotherapy is sometimes deprioritised in favour of other allied health supports. However, there are clear circumstances where physiotherapy plays a distinct and valuable role.

From a service-delivery perspective, physiotherapy is particularly relevant where participant goals relate to:

• Mobility, balance, or gait

• Post-hospital reablement or rehabilitation

• Falls prevention

• Pain management impacting participation

• Strength and movement capacity required for daily function

• Neurological or complex physical presentations

When physiotherapy aligns clearly with functional goals - particularly where restoring, maintaining, or optimising movement is central - it can form an important component of a participant's Capacity Building supports.

Clearing up the OT or Physiotherapy Confusion for NDIS Participants

There can sometimes be overlap between Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy, particularly when goals involve functional mobility or daily activities.

A helpful distinction in practice:

• Occupational Therapy often focuses on enabling participation in daily activities, environmental modification, assistive technology, and task-specific skill development.

• Physiotherapy typically addresses the underlying physical components of movement - strength, joint range, balance, coordination, postural control, rehabilitation, and pain management.

For example, if the goal is for safe shower access, OT may assess the environment and recommend modifications. If the barrier is reduced lower limb strength or balance affecting transfers, physiotherapy may address the physical capacity limiting performance.

In many cases, coordinated intervention between both disciplines produces the strongest outcome - with clear delineation of roles to ensure efficient use of plan funding.

Supporting Clear Plan Justification

Where physiotherapy is being considered, clarity in goal alignment and documentation is critical. Plans are stronger when physiotherapy supports are linked directly to functional outcomes such as improved mobility, reduced falls risk, increased endurance for community participation, or rehabilitation following injury.

Early discussion with providers can assist in clarifying scope and ensuring the right discipline is engaged from the outset.

FAQs - Physiotherapy and NDIS Plans

Is Physiotherapy funded under NDIS plans?

Yes, where it meets reasonable and necessary criteria and aligns with participant goals under Capacity Building supports.

How is Physiotherapy different from Occupational Therapy?

Physiotherapy addresses movement, rehabilitation, strength, balance, and pain management. Occupational Therapy focuses on daily function, environmental adaptation, and task performance.

Can a participant have both OT and Physiotherapy?

Yes. Many participants benefit from coordinated support across both disciplines when goals require both functional adaptation and physical rehabilitation.