Understanding which items are eligible for Support at Home and NDIS funding

If you’re servicing customers under the Support at Home program (previously Home Care Packages) or the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), it’s important to understand which items can be funded and which cannot.

What types of items are eligible for funding?

Under both programs, eligible customers can access funding towards ready-made meals. This funding is designed to support the preparation and delivery of meals that meet the customer’s nutritional needs.

Government funding covers the preparation and delivery component of a meal—but not the cost of the raw ingredients. Because of this, eligible customers typically pay 30% of the total meal cost upfront, with the remaining 70% invoiced to their Care Provider (SaH) or Plan Manager (NDIS).

Items that are generally eligible include:

• Fully prepared, ready-to-eat meals

• Meals tailored to dietary needs, such as cultural, religious, or medical requirements

• Packaging and delivery costs

• Support with meal preparation, including planning and cooking

The funding aims to help participants maintain their independence and access consistent, nutritious meals in their own homes.

What types of items are excluded from funding?

Items that fall outside the scope of meal preparation and delivery are not eligible for funding. These usually include:

• Pantry items like jams, sauces, and spreads

• Grocery items such as fruit, vegetables, and bread

• Meal kits or uncooked ingredients

• Alcohol and other beverages

While these can still be offered on your menu, they must be paid for in full by the customer and cannot be claimed through government funding.

It’s also worth noting that Care Providers and Plan Managers may apply different interpretations of the rules. For example, some only allow single-serve meals, while others accept shared meals. If you’re unsure whether a particular item qualifies, it’s best to check directly with the customer’s provider.

Why this matters for your business

The SaH and NDIS programs represent a growing opportunity for food businesses. As government support for independent living continues to expand, more Australians are accessing funding for ready-made meals. Many Cooks on Cookaborough find this part of their business especially rewarding, not just for the steady income, but for the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Takeaway

Focus on offering fully prepared, nutritious meals that meet funding criteria. Understanding what’s included and what’s not, helps you support your customers and grow your business with confidence.