Does the NDIS cover meal delivery services?

Meal preparation and deliveries can be a valuable and helpful service for those living with a disability. If you are unable to cook or source ingredients independently, these services may even be covered by your NDIS budget. It’s important to note that while the cost of ingredients is generally not covered by the NDIS (as they are considered a common everyday expense), your plan may provide coverage for up to 70% of the cost associated with having meals prepared or delivered. This funding means that individuals living with disabilities can still have access to nutritious and convenient meal options.

To access meal prep and delivery funding ask your planner to mention this support in your plan.

Can the NDIS Fund Groceries or Home Cooking?

Your NDIS plan may be able to cover the costs related to meal preparation and delivery, however the NDIS cannot cover the costs of ingredients or groceries themselves, as these are considered an everyday expense. If you require assistance with cooking, you may have the option to allocate funds from your core budget to access this support, especially if you are unable to do so independently.

In some cases, if you are unable to shop for yourself the NDIS may also cover the cost of delivery from large supermarkets like Coles or Woolworths. This means you can still have access to groceries and essential items without facing any barriers related to mobility or transportation.

NDIS Food Delivery Options

Your NDIS funding won’t cover delivery services like Uber Eats or DoorDash, however certain meal providers that include the preparation aspect of meals, such as Lite n Easy, may be eligible for coverage. In order for the service to be considered, the provider must clearly specify on their invoice the separate costs for preparation and delivery, and the costs of the food itself. Services like Hello Fresh, which include both ingredients and recipes, are not covered under the NDIS.

How Meal Delivery Services Can Benefit People with Disabilities

There are many benefits that come with meal delivery services, from health and safety to convenience and increased independence.

• Increased Independence: For individuals with disabilities who face challenges in cooking or grocery shopping, meal delivery services can offer a newfound sense of independence. By using these services, participants can access a range of nutritious and tailored meals with a greater level of independence.
• Convenience: Preparing meals can be time-consuming and physically demanding for some individuals with disabilities. Meal delivery services provide a convenient solution, saving precious time and energy that can be redirected towards other meaningful activities or self-care.
• Diverse and Nutritious Options: Many meal delivery services offer a wide range of dietary options, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly meals. This ensures that participants can access meals that align with their specific nutritional needs and preferences.
• Improved Safety: For those with disabilities that affect mobility, balance, or coordination, cooking can pose some safety concerns. Meal delivery services eliminate these concerns, reducing the risk of accidents.

The Best NDIS Approved Meal Providers

If you are self managed or plan managed, you are able to select meal delivery providers that aren’t registered. However, if you are agency managed you will need to choose from a list of approved, registered providers. We have put together a handy list of some of the best NDIS approved meal providers to get you started:

• Lite n Easy provides fuss-free meals that were created by dieticians and dedicated chefs to ensure healthy and nutritious meals.
• Dineamic delivers healthy, affordable, and accessible meals to all Australian capital cities.
• Able Foods are disability and aged care specialists, so can provide tailored meals to suit your nutritional needs and preferences. 
• I Hate Cooking is an in-home cooking provider that will prepare healthy and nutritious meals in your own kitchen.
• Workout Meals is an NDIS approved meal provider offering ready-made meals with a focus on health and fitness.
• Gourmet Meals provides frozen, healthy meals delivered straight to your door.

If you’re still unsure whether your NDIS plan will cover meal providers, you can contact the NDIA or someone in your support network to review your plan inclusions. The team at Orange Plan Management is here to help answer any of your plan related questions, so don’t hesitate to reach out!