Physiotherapists are uniquely advantaged to deliver NDIS funded therapy to participants because of the breadth of practice possible within Physiotherapy and in Allied Health generally. Physiotherapists and other Allied Health clinicians can add value to NDIS plans across multiple support categories, from providing the same hands-on input you might receive in a private clinic to support Improved Health and Wellbeing through a structured exercise and rehabilitation program or through therapist-led manual therapy, to supporting Increased Social and Community Participation with community mobility and safety plans, and more. Physiotherapists have broad skill bases, and often work directly or in consultation with other Allied Health providers like Occupational Therapists to ensure that participants are achieving their best outcomes. 

Beyond providing therapy directly, physiotherapists are also able to provide reporting, evidence, and undertake assessments to assist participants across their access and planning journey. This sometimes means writing and submitting reports to participant advocates or the NDIA directly as part of assessment or advocacy. Sometimes it means being present during meetings or discussions, and sometimes it just means having a phone number to call in case you or someone else might have questions. It's important to remember that physiotherapy has the potential to add value and contribute to your goals outside of the clinic as well as inside. Sessions can be provided at your home or in an assisted living facility. Exercises can be done with or without equipment, and physiotherapists are able to request purchases of consumables and therapy aids within the context of achieving a goal.

Most importantly, physiotherapists are goal-oriented health professionals, just like everyone else in Allied Health. This is important because NDIS funding is there to help you support your goals and the things you want to achieve. Physiotherapists know how to take a big goal that might mean a lot to you, and break it down into achievable components. Physiotherapists know what they can do, what they can't do, and who might be able to help in the event that a little more support is needed to deal with a problem or to negotiate a barrier. Physiotherapists are team-players, and they know how to liaise with plan managers, reviewers, other clinicians, and of course you as the participant. Physiotherapists know to put the participant front and center in the process, and never make a decision without considering the immediate and consequent impact of that choice on the plan or the person at its core.

Physiotherapists are well-positioned to help NDIS participants make the most of their resources and time, and to help them achieve their plans. Through therapy, assessment, reporting and review, physiotherapy services can assist participants to achieve their aims and goals in a timely, sustainable, and effective manner. There are many physiotherapists practising in many different professional contexts, so no matter the problem, there will be someone to whom you can speak, and a path of inquiry you can pursue. It's important to remember that not all physiotherapists may have the training to address the needs imposed by your specific situation, be that a disability, a social context, or even a goal you want to achieve, but by reaching out you start the process to find the person who can help you the best.