About the HCP and NDIS programs

Home Care Packages (HCP) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) are two major Government initiatives that enable Australians to live more independently in their homes. Both programs include ready-made meal services as a supported category, and that presents a growing opportunity for local food businesses.

Understand the programs

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

The NDIS supports over 500,000 Australians living with permanent and significant disabilities. Its aim is to help participants achieve greater independence, community involvement, education, and employment outcomes. NDIS participants can access funding for services that support daily living, increase independence, and improve quality of life. This includes personal care, therapies, assistive technology, and ready-made meals.

Home Care Packages (HCP)

Home Care Packages are designed to help older Australians (65+ years) live independently in their own homes. Over 150,000 people currently receive support through an HCP, with this number growing by at least 10% each year. Ready-made meals are subsidised under the program, alongside personal care, domestic help, and other in-home supports.

Funding towards ready-made meals

Under both programs, eligible customers can access funding towards ready-made meals.

Government funding covers only the preparation and delivery component of the meal, not the ingredients.

As a result, eligible customers typically pay 30% of the cost upfront, and the remaining 70% is invoiced to their Care Provider (HCP) or Plan Manager (NDIS).

The opportunity for food businesses

Offering meals to HCP and NDIS participants can help grow your business in a meaningful way:

• Lower cost to customers – Eligible customers typically only pay 30% of the meal cost upfront, making them less price-sensitive

• Higher order volumes – Customers often order multiple meals each week, driving regular and predictable revenue

• Community connection – Cooks regularly tell us that the personal reward of helping someone in their community is just as valuable as the income

How Cookaborough makes it simple

Supporting these segments doesn’t need to be complicated. Cookaborough removes complexity and gives you the tools and support to succeed.

Here’s how we help food businesses:

• Gain access to a network of trusted Care Providers and Plan Managers across Australia through our partnerships

• Be discovered by eligible customers through our marketplace and 'Find a Cook' directory

• Navigate compliance requirements with step-by-step support from our experienced team

• Streamline the application and pre-approval process using established workflows and built-in automation

• Access practical advice and guidance on servicing these segments, including nutrition and service best practices

• Save time with automated, compliant invoicing and debtor reporting

The HCP and NDIS programs are growing rapidly and they offer a powerful way for Cooks to grow their business while supporting vulnerable members of their local community. With Cookaborough’s tools, connections, and support, it’s easy to tap into this demand and make a real impact.