To obtain NDIS funding for equine assisted therapy, it will need to pass the “reasonable and necessary” test. This means the request must be related to your disability, good value for money and likely to be of benefit for you.

It is important that your request for funding is connected to one of your NDIS goals so be sure to connect the activity with your goals.

Example goal 1:


To meet new people and improve my communication skills.
How equine assisted therapy might help:
I would meet people I have not met before, make new friends and learn to follow instructions about how to ride and care for a horse.

In this case, funding is likely to come from your Core supports budget.

 

Example goal 2:
To improve coordination and strength so that I can be more independent.
How equine assisted therapy could help:
The exercise of riding a horse will help strengthen my muscles, improving my ability to control my arms and hands and hopefully do more things for myself.

In this case, funding is likely to come from the Capacity Building budget. You may also be able to use your NDIS Community Participation budget to try out horse riding, test your capability and interest in further pursuing this activity.

It may be helpful to obtain a letter of support from a physiotherapist or occupational outlining the type of therapy recommended and how it may help to achieve your goals.