Living with a chronic wound can be stressful, especially when it limits daily activities. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers specialised wound‑care services that bring qualified nurses right into the home. This guide explains who can access the service, what is covered, how funding works and how to start receiving care in Melbourne.
What the support is and who it helps
NDIS wound‑care services provide professional nursing assistance for people with a disability who have pressure injuries, leg ulcers, surgical wounds or other complex skin conditions. The support is delivered by registered nurses or wound‑care specialists who assess the wound, clean and dress it, monitor progress and educate the participant and their family. It is designed for people whose wound management is a functional impairment that affects independence, mobility or quality of life.
Eligibility & access rules
To qualify for NDIS wound‑care services, a participant must meet the standard NDIS eligibility criteria:
- Be under 65 years of age.
- Have a permanent and significant disability that impacts daily living.
- Pass the functional impact assessment during the access interview.
In addition, the wound must be considered a disability‑related health need. The participant’s NDIS plan must include a reasonable and necessary support category such as Therapeutic Supports or Assistive Technology that can accommodate wound‑care services. The NDIS Services In Melbourne page outlines the broader range of supports that can be combined with wound care.
What’s included / what’s not included
Included in NDIS wound‑care services
- Initial wound assessment and risk analysis.
- Regular dressing changes performed by a qualified nurse.
- Supply of approved dressings and consumables, as per the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.
- Education on self‑care techniques and infection prevention.
- Coordination with other health professionals, such as physiotherapists or occupational therapists, when required.
Not covered by NDIS wound‑care services
- Medical procedures that are classified as hospital‑based acute care.
- Non‑NDIS‑approved consumables or over‑the‑counter products not listed in the pricing arrangements.
- Transportation costs unless specifically included in a separate transport support.
- Long‑term residential nursing care; the service is intended for community‑based, home settings.
Funding & planning considerations
Wound‑care services are funded through the participant’s NDIS plan under the Therapeutic Supports or Daily Living categories, depending on how the plan is structured. The cost of each service is calculated using the rates set out in the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. Participants should discuss the expected frequency of visits with their planner or support coordinator to ensure the budget reflects realistic needs.
When budgeting, consider:
- Frequency of nursing visits – weekly, fortnightly or as required.
- Any additional allied health services that support wound healing, such as physiotherapy.
- Potential need for specialised dressings that may have higher price limits.
Regular review of the plan (usually every 12 months) provides an opportunity to adjust funding if the wound’s condition changes.
How to request/activate the support
- Confirm eligibility. Ensure your NDIS plan includes a line item for wound‑care or therapeutic supports.
- Find a registered provider. Use the NDIS Provider Finder or contact a local nursing agency. The Wound Care Services In Melbourne page lists providers experienced in community wound management.
- Obtain a referral. Your GP or specialist can provide a medical referral that outlines the wound type and required frequency of care.
- Submit a service request. Provide the provider with your NDIS plan details and any required documentation.
- Schedule the first visit. The nurse will conduct a comprehensive assessment, develop a care plan and discuss any required consumables.
- Monitor and report. Keep a simple wound diary and share updates with your planner or support coordinator to ensure continued funding.
Local context – Melbourne and surrounding suburbs
Melbourne’s extensive network of community health services means participants in the western suburbs can access wound‑care nurses without long travel times. Residents of Point Cook, Tarneit and Werribee often benefit from providers who operate across these areas, offering flexible visit schedules that suit each household.
Local hospitals such as the Royal Melbourne Hospital and Sunshine Hospital collaborate with community nurses, ensuring a smooth handover from acute to home care. Many providers also partner with the Wyndham City Council’s health initiatives, which aim to reduce hospital readmissions through timely wound management.
If you live in these suburbs, ask potential providers whether they have experience servicing Point Cook, Tarneit or Werribee. Familiarity with local GP practices and community health centres can improve coordination and outcomes.
People Also Ask
Can I get wound‑care services if I am not yet an NDIS participant?
No. Wound‑care services under the NDIS are only available to people who have an approved NDIS plan. You must first apply for NDIS access.
How often will a nurse visit for wound care?
Visit frequency is decided during the assessment and recorded in your plan. It can range from daily for severe wounds to weekly for stable conditions.
Are the dressings provided at no extra cost?
Approved dressings are covered under the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. Only items listed in the price guide are funded.
What if my wound worsens after a few weeks?
Inform your nurse immediately. They may adjust the care plan, increase visit frequency, or refer you back to a medical specialist. Updates should also be communicated to your planner.
Can family members assist with dressing changes?
Yes. The nurse can train a family member to perform simple dressings, provided they are comfortable and the wound is stable. Training is part of the service.
This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.