The NDIS will reduce pricing limits for key therapy services from July 1, 2025, to manage costs and align with broader healthcare benchmarks.
Quick Overview: What’s Changing?
From July 2025, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will implement fee reductions for several allied health services.
These changes aim to curb rising costs and keep the scheme sustainable into the next decade. Here’s a summary of the updates:
- Physiotherapy: Reduced by $10/hour to $183.99
- Dietitian services: Reduced by $5/hour to $188.99
- Podiatry: Reduced by $5/hour to $188.99
- State-based pricing: To be eliminated nationwide
- Disability support worker rates: Adjusted in line with Fair Work minimum wage changes
These changes are part of the NDIA’s wider plan to limit annual cost growth from 15% to 8%.
Why Is the NDIA Cutting Therapy Prices?
The NDIA is responding to long-term sustainability concerns by aligning therapy prices with national health benchmarks.
An internal review of over 10 million claims revealed that therapy services under the NDIS were, in some cases, up to 68% more expensive than similar services under Medicare, private health, or other government schemes.
This move is designed to:
- Address cost blowouts (currently over $50 billion per year)
- Prevent unnecessary inflation in service pricing
- Ensure fair use of taxpayer funding
- Encourage more consistent pricing across states and providers
How Will These Cuts Affect NDIS Participants?
Participants may face changes in service availability, but the NDIA insists access to quality care will remain a top priority.
While participants might benefit from lower-cost services in theory, there are concerns that reduced pricing could:
- Cause smaller providers to exit the market
- Reduce the availability of specialised therapy
- Impact continuity of care for complex needs
At Sunrise2Sunrise, we’re committed to helping participants navigate these changes smoothly. Our team is actively working with therapists and coordinators to ensure service continuity.
What Are Providers Saying About the Changes?
Industry groups have raised alarms about the real-world impact on service delivery and workforce sustainability.
Several peak bodies have responded:
- Disability Intermediaries Australia warned the move could lead to business closures.
- Dietitians Australia expressed concern that cuts could worsen health outcomes, as participants might delay or avoid care.
Many providers feel the pricing doesn’t account for the additional time, travel, and reporting often required when working with NDIS participants.
What Sunrise2Sunrise Is Doing to Support You
We’re closely monitoring the changes to ensure every participant receives uninterrupted and high-quality support.
Here’s how we’re responding:
- NDIS Plan Reviews: Helping participants prepare for changes in support funding
- Support Coordination: Advocating for necessary therapies in your plan
- Provider Collaboration: Working with allied health professionals to secure service availability
- Participant Education: Hosting information sessions and 1-on-1 guidance
What Should Participants Do Next?
Stay informed, talk to your support coordinator, and prepare early for plan changes.
If you’re receiving physiotherapy, dietetics, or podiatry through your NDIS plan, we recommend:
- Booking a plan review before July 2025
- Speaking with your support coordinator about service continuation
- Asking providers if their availability or pricing will change
We’ll help you update your goals and ensure your next plan reflects your needs—within the new pricing framework.
Common Questions About the NDIS Price Cuts
Will I still be able to see my current therapist?
It depends on whether your therapist continues to operate under the new pricing model. Some providers may adjust session lengths or billing structures.
Does this affect all services under the NDIS?
No. The pricing review mainly targets allied health therapy supports. Other services like SIL, core support, and transport remain unchanged for now.
Can I request a reassessment of my plan if services change?
Yes. If service availability is affected, you can request a plan reassessment to explore other options or funding adjustments.
Sunrise2Sunrise: Supporting You Through the Transition
The NDIS fee reductions are a significant policy shift aimed at protecting the future of the scheme. At Sunrise2Sunrise, we recognise that while financial sustainability is essential, participant wellbeing must remain the priority.
We’re here to help you adjust, advocate, and access the supports you need—without compromise.
📞 Need support navigating these changes?
Call Sunrise2Sunrise on 03 9188 3499 or visit us at 2/418 Princes Highway, Narre Warren VIC 3805.
