For many people with disability in Victoria, medication administration is a critical part of daily life. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can fund support workers to help with safe medication use, but the process requires clear safety protocols and accurate record‑keeping. This guide explains what the support looks like, who can access it, how it is funded, and the steps to get it started. It also highlights local services in Belgravia, Chelsea and Pimlico.
What is Medication Administration Support?
Medication administration support is a service that assists a participant with taking prescribed medicines at the right time, in the correct dose and route. The support worker may prepare the medication, remind the participant, supervise the intake, and ensure that any side‑effects are monitored. The goal is to promote independence while safeguarding health.
Who Can Benefit?
Participants who have a medication regime that is too complex for them to manage alone, or who need assistance due to mobility, cognitive or sensory impairments, can receive this support. It is also suitable for those who live alone and have no family or friend available to help.
Eligibility & Access Rules
Medication administration support is classified as a core support under the NDIS. To be eligible, participants must:
- Have a documented medical need for medication as part of their treatment plan.
- Show that independent management of medication poses a risk to health or safety.
- Be in a region where NDIS‑approved service providers can deliver the support.
Participants must discuss this need with their plan manager or support coordinator. The service must be listed in the participant’s NDIS plan as a core support. The NDIS does not fund medication supply; only the administration service is covered.
What’s Included / What’s Not Included
Included services:
- Assistance with organising medication (e.g., pillboxes, blister packs).
- Preparing and administering medicines (oral, sub‑lingual, inhaled).
- Monitoring for adverse reactions and reporting them.
- Providing reminders and education about medication schedules.
Excluded services:
- Purchasing or supplying medication – participants must obtain drugs through pharmacies.
- Prescription changes or medical advice – this remains the responsibility of the participant’s doctor.
- Non‑medication related health checks (e.g., blood pressure, glucose monitoring) unless bundled as part of a broader health service.
Funding & Planning Considerations
The NDIS funds medication administration as part of the participant’s core support budget. The cost is calculated using the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits, which set the maximum hourly rate for a qualified support worker. The rate varies by region; Victoria typically falls under the metropolitan pricing band.
When budgeting, participants should:
- Include the number of hours required per week in their plan.
- Consider whether the support will be full‑time or part‑time.
- Account for any additional costs such as travel or specialised equipment (e.g., pill organisers).
Plan managers can adjust the budget during plan reviews to reflect changes in medication complexity or frequency.
Safety and Documentation Requirements
Safe Medication Practices
To minimise risk, support workers should follow these protocols:
- Confirm identity of the participant before each session.
- Check the medication label against the prescription for dosage, route and timing.
- Use a clean, dedicated workspace to avoid cross‑contamination.
- Observe the participant for any immediate side‑effects and report them to the prescribing clinician.
- Maintain a safe environment by keeping medicine out of reach of pets and children.
Documentation and Record Keeping
Accurate records are essential for safety and compliance. The support worker should maintain a medication log that includes:
- Medication name, dose and route.
- Time administered and any missed doses.
- Any observed side‑effects or changes in condition.
- Signature of the participant or authorised representative.
These logs should be stored securely, either in a digital system approved by the NDIS or in a confidential paper file. The participant and their support coordinator should review the log regularly to ensure continuity of care.
How to Request/Activate the Support
- Identify the need – Discuss with your doctor and support coordinator whether medication administration is required.
- Check your plan – Verify that core support funding is available and that medication administration is listed.
- Choose a provider – Search for NDIS‑approved medication support services. You can use resources such as NDIS Home Care Supports in Wyndham 35, NDIS Home Care Supports in Wyndham 34, or NDIS Home Care in Wyndham 20 for examples of local providers.
- Arrange a service agreement – Sign a service agreement that outlines hours, responsibilities and safety procedures.
- Start the service – The provider will begin assisting with medication as per the agreed schedule. Regular progress checks should be scheduled with your plan manager.
Local Context in Victoria
Medication administration support is widely available across Victoria. In the Greater Melbourne region, many providers offer flexible, part‑time arrangements suitable for participants living in suburban areas.
Belgravia
Residents in Belgravia can access local NDIS‑approved support workers who are familiar with the area’s pharmacies and community resources.
Chelsea
Chelsea participants benefit from a network of providers who specialise in home‑based medication management, ensuring quick response times for any urgent needs.
Pimlico
In Pimlico, support workers often collaborate with local health services to coordinate medication reviews and updates to the participant’s plan.
FAQs
What types of medication can be administered under the NDIS?
Any prescription medication that requires supervision for safety can be included, such as oral tablets, inhalers, or topical creams. Over‑the‑counter medicines are not covered.
Can a family member provide medication administration instead of a paid worker?
Family or friends can assist if the participant is comfortable. However, the NDIS will only fund a paid support worker. If a family member is providing the service, it may still be recorded as a support activity for planning purposes.
How often does the medication log need to be reviewed?
Review the log at least monthly, or more frequently if the participant’s condition changes. This ensures any issues are identified early and the plan remains accurate.
What happens if a medication is missed?
The support worker should note the missed dose in the log and inform the participant’s health professional. The plan may be adjusted to increase reminder frequency if missed doses become a pattern.
Is there a limit to the number of hours I can receive for medication administration?
Yes. The NDIS sets a maximum number of hours per week based on the participant’s needs and the plan’s budget. If more hours are required, a plan review can be requested.
This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.