21/02/2026
β¨ Disability Supports for Children β Outside of the NDIS β¨
Not every child with additional needs is on the NDIS β and thatβs okay. There are still many supports available for primary school children and their families. Hereβs a helpful overview π
π 1οΈβ£ School-Based Supports (Government & Non-Government Schools)
All Australian schools must make reasonable adjustments so children with disability can access education on the same basis as their peers.
Supports may include:
βοΈ Learning support teachers
βοΈ Teacher aide support
βοΈ Individual learning plans
βοΈ Adjusted curriculum or assessments
βοΈ Assistive technology (e.g., modified devices, software)
βοΈ Behaviour support strategies
Funding for this comes through state education programs such as:
β’ Disability Inclusion (VIC)
β’ Integration Funding Support (NSW)
β’ Students with Disability Program (QLD)
(Each state has its own model.)
π° 2οΈβ£ Centrelink Financial Supports
Families may be eligible for:
βοΈ Carer Allowance
βοΈ Carer Payment (in some circumstances)
βοΈ Child Disability Assistance Payment (annual payment for eligible families)
These payments help with the extra costs of raising a child with disability.
π©Ί 3οΈβ£ Medicare & Health Supports
Children may be eligible for:
βοΈ Chronic Disease Management Plan (GP referral for allied health sessions)
βοΈ Better Access Mental Health Plan
βοΈ Public health therapy services (speech, OT, physio β waitlists may apply)
π§© 4οΈβ£ Community & Local Programs
Many community organisations and local councils offer:
βοΈ Inclusive holiday programs
βοΈ Support groups for parents
βοΈ Social skills groups
βοΈ Early intervention services
βοΈ Subsidised sport and recreation programs
π« 5οΈβ£ Disability Standards for Education
Under federal law, schools must provide reasonable adjustments even if a child is not diagnosed or on the NDIS. A formal diagnosis is not always required to access school support.