Gardening can bring joy, calm and a sense of accomplishment to anyone. For people with disabilities, an accessible yard means safer movement, easier maintenance and more opportunities for social interaction. In Rosebud, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers support to plan and fund modifications that make gardening a practical part of everyday life.
What is Accessible Gardening Support?
Accessible gardening support covers activities that help participants create or adapt a garden or yard so that it can be used safely and comfortably. This can include installing raised beds, installing handrails, improving pathways, or providing tools that are easier to use. The goal is to reduce physical barriers and increase independence in the outdoor space.
Who Benefits?
People with mobility challenges, visual impairment, or conditions that limit fine motor skills often find gardening difficult. The support is designed for individuals who want to grow plants, maintain a lawn, or simply spend time outdoors but require assistance to do so safely.
Eligibility & Access Rules
To qualify for this support, participants must meet the general NDIS eligibility criteria: a permanent, significant disability that impacts daily life, be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and be under 65 years old (unless the disability has caused early retirement). The support is only available if the participant’s plan indicates that it is reasonable and necessary for achieving their goals. It must be listed under the “Capacity Building” or “Core Supports” category, depending on the plan’s structure.
Access is granted through a plan review or a new plan. The participant or their support coordinator must identify the gardening goal and discuss it with the planner. The planner will then determine whether the support is justified, and if so, include it in the participant’s plan.
What Is Included in the Support?
Included activities typically cover:
- Assessment of the yard to identify hazards and opportunities for improvement.
- Design and installation of raised beds or vertical gardens.
- Installation of ramps, handrails or non-slip surfaces.
- Provision of adaptive tools such as ergonomic trowels or lightweight hoses.
- Training on safe use of equipment and maintenance of the adapted space.
- Ongoing support for troubleshooting and small repairs.
All work must be carried out by a registered NDIS provider or a qualified contractor who can provide evidence of compliance with the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.
What Is Not Included?
Costs that fall outside the scope of the support are not covered:
- Purchasing plants, seeds or garden furniture that are not part of the adaptive design.
- Large landscaping projects that exceed the participant’s capacity to use the yard.
- Regular lawn mowing or garden maintenance beyond the initial setup.
- Personal care services such as washing or dressing while gardening.
- Any work that is purely aesthetic without a functional purpose.
Funding & Planning Considerations
When budgeting for accessible gardening, participants should consider the following:
- The cost of design and installation is capped by the price limits set out in the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements. Providers must submit a detailed quotation that aligns with these limits.
- Participants can choose to receive the funding directly or through a plan manager. Direct funding requires the participant to pay upfront and then claim reimbursement.
- It is advisable to keep receipts and detailed records of all work performed. These will be needed for the claims process.
- In some cases, participants may combine the gardening support with other core supports, such as personal care or domestic assistance, to maximise the use of their plan budget.
How to Request or Activate the Support
- Review your plan. Check if gardening is already listed. If not, note the goal and the expected outcomes.
- Speak with your support coordinator. Discuss the need for an accessible garden and request a plan review if necessary.
- Engage a registered provider. Look for local providers that specialise in outdoor modifications. Many will offer a free initial assessment.
- Obtain a quotation. The provider must supply a quotation that references the relevant NDIS price limits.
- Submit the plan amendment. Your planner will review the quotation and, if approved, add the support to the plan.
- Schedule the work. Once the plan is updated, the provider can commence the installation.
- Keep records. Store receipts, photos and any correspondence for future claims.
For more details on how to navigate the planning process, see What You Need To Know and What The NDIS Can Offer.
Local Context: Rosebud, Belgravia, Chelsea and Pimlico
Rosebud’s coastal setting provides a unique gardening experience. The sandy soil and temperate climate allow for a range of plants, from hardy succulents to vibrant beach flowers. Accessible designs here often incorporate raised beds that sit at a comfortable height for wheelchair users or those who need to sit while gardening.
In neighbouring Belgravia, many gardens feature low-maintenance native shrubs that reduce the need for frequent trimming. Chelsea’s community gardens offer shared spaces where participants can practise gardening skills with support from volunteers. Pimlico’s local nurseries specialise in adaptive gardening tools and can provide guidance on suitable plant species for outdoor accessibility.
Engaging with local community groups can also help participants find peer support and share best practices for maintaining an accessible yard.
FAQs
- What is the maximum budget for gardening support under the NDIS?
- The funding is limited by the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. The exact amount depends on the provider’s quotation and the scope of work.
- Can I use my own tools for the garden?
- While you may use personal tools, any adaptive equipment purchased with NDIS funds must be approved by the planner and fall within the price limits.
- Do I need to have a specific disability to qualify for gardening support?
- Eligibility is based on having a disability that significantly impacts daily life, not on a particular diagnosis.
- Is regular lawn maintenance included?
- No. Routine maintenance such as mowing or weeding is considered separate from the initial design and installation support.
- Can I combine gardening support with other core supports?
- Yes, you can include it alongside other supports in your plan, provided each is justified and falls within the budget limits.
For further guidance on NDIS planning and support options in Rosebud, consult Home Care Supports in Rosebud.
This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.