Gardening can bring joy, fresh produce and a sense of independence. For people with disabilities in Wyndham, however, a garden that is safe and easy to use requires careful planning. This article explains how the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) supports accessible gardening, who can get help, what is covered, how to access the service and how local communities such as Point Cook, Tarneit and Werribee can benefit.
What Gardening Support Means for You
The NDIS offers Gardening for Accessibility as part of its Home and Community Care package. It covers the design, installation and ongoing maintenance of a garden that can be used safely by a participant, their family or a support worker.
Who Can Benefit?
Any NDIS participant with a physical, sensory or cognitive disability that makes traditional gardening difficult can receive this support. The goal is to enable the participant to enjoy the outdoors, grow food or simply have a relaxing space.
Eligibility and Access Rules
To be eligible:
- The participant must have an NDIS plan that includes Gardening for Accessibility as a reasonable and necessary support.
- The participant must live in or near Wyndham and be able to demonstrate that the garden is part of their daily routine.
- Support must be tailored to the participant’s goals, such as improving mobility, encouraging social interaction or providing therapeutic benefits.
Access is granted through the participant’s plan manager or support coordinator. The service provider must be registered with the NDIS and follow the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. No additional fees beyond the price limit are permitted.
What Is Included in the Support
Included Tasks
The support can cover:
- Consultation with a horticultural specialist to assess needs.
- Designing a garden layout that includes raised beds, wheelchair‑accessible pathways and low‑maintenance plant choices.
- Installation of soil beds, irrigation systems and safety features.
- Ongoing maintenance such as weeding, pruning, watering and pest control.
- Training for the participant or a carer on how to use the garden safely.
All tasks are performed by an NDIS‑registered provider. The provider may use a support worker or a horticulturalist, depending on the plan.
What Is Not Included
Services that fall outside the scope of gardening support are excluded:
- Large landscaping projects that require heavy machinery.
- Major structural changes to the home, such as installing a new shed or greenhouse.
- Professional landscaping fees that exceed the price limit for horticultural support.
- Any work that is purely decorative and does not enhance accessibility.
Funding and Planning Considerations
When planning the support, participants should:
- Work with their planner to confirm that gardening is listed under Capacity Building or Core Supports as appropriate.
- Ensure the budget for gardening does not exceed the price limit set in the latest Pricing Arrangements.
- Keep a log of all work performed, including dates and tasks, to support future funding reviews.
- Consider combining gardening with other supports such as occupational therapy for a holistic approach.
Because the garden can be a therapeutic tool, many participants find that the investment supports overall wellbeing and reduces other support costs.
How to Request or Activate the Support
- Check your plan – Confirm that gardening is listed. If it is not, discuss adding it with your planner.
- Find a registered provider – Search the NDIS provider directory or contact local organisations. For example, NDIS home care supports in Wyndham can recommend specialists.
- Schedule a consultation – Arrange an assessment to discuss design, materials and maintenance schedules.
- Sign the service agreement – Ensure the agreement states that the work is within the price limit.
- Begin work – The provider will start with design, then installation, followed by maintenance as agreed.
- Track progress – Keep a simple record of tasks completed for future plan reviews.
Local Context: Wyndham and Nearby Areas
Wyndham’s diverse neighbourhoods offer many opportunities for accessible gardening. Below are key points for each nearby area.
Point Cook
Point Cook residents can access local nurseries that specialise in low‑maintenance plants. The community garden at the Point Cook Library is a good example of a wheelchair‑friendly space that can be replicated in private gardens.
Tarneit
Tarneit has several community hubs that provide free workshops on sustainable gardening. Participants can join these sessions to learn how to maintain a garden with minimal effort.
Werribee
Werribee’s parks and reserves offer accessible pathways and raised beds that can serve as models for home gardens. Local councils also offer grants for home modifications, which can complement NDIS gardening support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of plants are recommended for an accessible garden?
Plants that require minimal watering, have soft leaves and grow within a low height are ideal. Succulents, herbs like basil or mint, and dwarf fruit trees are popular choices.
Can the garden be used for both food production and relaxation?
Yes. Many designs incorporate a small vegetable patch alongside a seating area, allowing participants to grow food while enjoying a quiet space.
Do I need to pay for the maintenance separately?
Maintenance is included in the NDIS support cost as long as it stays within the price limit. Any additional services outside the agreed scope may incur extra charges.
How often will maintenance be carried out?
Maintenance schedules vary by participant. Some need weekly visits, while others may require monthly or seasonal checks. The plan should specify the frequency.
Is gardening support available for people who live alone?
Absolutely. The support can be tailored to the individual’s needs, whether they have a carer or rely on the provider alone.
**Disclaimer**: This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.