NDIS
How an Accredited Exercise Physiologist Supports NDIS Participants in AustraliaAccredited exercise physiologists (AEPs) provide tailored, evidence-based exercise programs funded through the NDIS to help participants manage disabilities, improve physical function, and achieve greater independence.Key Ways an Exercise Physiologist Can Help NDIS Participants
- Design customised exercise programs to build strength, improve mobility, increase endurance, and manage chronic health conditions, pain, or physical disabilities.
- Support mental health and emotional wellbeing by using structured physical activity to reduce stress, boost mood, and enhance overall psychological resilience.
- Promote everyday independence through targeted training in balance, coordination, confidence, and safe movement helping participants navigate home, community, or public spaces more effectively.
- Deliver flexible, goal-focused support including:
- One-on-one sessions
- Small group classes
- Hydrotherapy (pool-based therapy)
- Home visits or community-based programs
- Guide participants toward long-term health gains — better physical function, reduced reliance on others, and an improved quality of life aligned with NDIS goals.
- Confirm eligibility – Ensure your NDIS plan includes funding in the relevant Capacity Building categories (check with your planner or LAC if unsure).
- Link it to your goals – During plan creation, review, or reassessment, clearly connect exercise physiology to specific NDIS goals (e.g., improved mobility, better condition management, increased community participation).
- Choose your management type:
- Self-managed or plan-managed: Contact and book directly with a registered or accredited provider.
- NDIA-managed: Submit a request via the NDIS participant portal or select a registered provider.
- Start with an initial assessment – The AEP reviews your medical history, current abilities, and goals to create a safe, personalised program.
- Support ongoing funding – Request progress reports, outcome letters, or evidence from your provider to submit during plan reviews which strengthens justification for continued or increased funding.
- Contact accredited providers directly (phone, email, or website) to discuss client needs and arrange referrals.
- Use the official NDIS Provider Finder tool to locate registered providers offering local, telehealth, or home-based options.
- Collaborate with the exercise physiologist to collect supporting evidence such as initial assessments, progress notes, or goal-attainment updates which demonstrating clear alignment with the participant’s NDIS plan goals.
- Make referrals through standard pathways: support coordination, plan management, or LAC processes for seamless service commencement.
- Advocate during plan reviews or access requests by working with providers to prepare strong, evidence-based recommendations for appropriate funding allocation.