Funding for Speech Therapy
Here are the most common funding options that may help make speech therapy more affordable for adults and children. This includes Private Health, Medicare, NDIS and other rebates.
Private Health Rebates for Speech Therapy
If you have extras cover, your private health fund may provide a rebate for speech therapy sessions.
All our Speech Pathologists are registered with Private Health Providers.
Rebate amounts differ between health funds, and some funds provide higher rebates for initial appointments. Because every fund is different, it’s best to contact your health fund directly to confirm:
Whether your plan covers speech therapy
The amount you can claim per session
The annual limit for speech pathology services
Medicare Rebates for Speech Therapy
Medicare offers several programs that may provide rebates for children and adults. Your GP or paediatrician will determine eligibility and issue a referral if appropriate.
NDIS Funding for Speech Therapy
(We are not NDIS-registered, so agency-managed plans are unable to be used.)
We just need to know:
Your goals
Your approved budget categories
Any relevant plan manager details
How to Apply for the NDIS
You can call 1800 800 110 and request an Access Request Form. After completing the form, attach all relevant reports and submit it to your nearest office.
For most families in our area, the closest office is Chermside. Hand-delivering your form can speed up the process.
If Your Child is Under 7
NDIS access for children aged 0–6 is managed by The Benevolent Society through the Early Childhood Approach (ECI).
Families can call 1300 003 234 for more information and guidance on next steps.
Click here to find out more information on ECEI program.
Reports for NDIS Applications
Please give us as much notice as possible if you need a report or supporting letter.
We have found that additional detail often makes a significant difference to the outcome of the Access Request.
Plan Managers We Recommend
Confused and not sure who to pick as a planner. We have found these plan managers know what they are doing, plus provide fast payments.
Emily’s Hope ph (07) 3155 6559 email maree@emilyshope.com.au or admin@emilyshope.com.au.
Our families with Emily’s Hope have really been incredibly happy with their service.
Centrelink
The Carer’s Allowance provides carer’s with a fortnightly payment to support the costs of caring for a child with developmental delays or disabilities. An application must be signed by a GP, Paediatrician, Psychologist or Speech Pathologist who is familiar with the child. This allowance is not assets or means tested.
Foster Children
If your child is a foster child then the Department of Communities, Child Safety and Disability Services may pay or refund the costs of therapy if they have identified the child as being eligible.
Insurance
We have worked with many different insurance providers to provide therapy for children who have been involved in motor vehicle accidents.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
The DVA provides funding for children with extra needs through two main education schemes: Additional Tuition and Special Assistance. Additional Tuition offers up to $3,500 annually for tutoring to help with academic difficulties caused by circumstances like frequent moves, and Special Assistance provides up to $3,000 for specific needs like learning disabilities or assessments for ADHD and ASD.
NIISQ
NIISQ supports people who have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident in Queensland.
Charities
Occasionally a charity may fund a child to attend regular therapy sessions or an initial assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Funding Speech Therapy
Here are the most common questions families ask about rebates, Medicare, NDIS and other funding options for speech therapy.
What funding options are available for speech therapy?
Speech therapy can be funded through Private Health, Medicare rebates, NDIS plans (self-managed or plan-managed) and other supports such as Centrelink, insurance or charities. The best option depends on your age, diagnosis and financial situation.
Can I use both Medicare and Private Health for the same session?
No. You must choose either Medicare or Private Health for each session. You cannot claim both simultaneously.
Does Medicare cover speech therapy?
Yes, if you have a referral from a GP or paediatrician.
Funding may come through a CDM Plan, ATSI Health Plan, disability items or through higher rebates once your family reaches the Medicare Safety Net.
Is speech therapy free with a Medicare referral?
No. Speech therapy is not free with a Medicare referral.
A referral from your GP (such as a Chronic Disease Management Plan or ATSI Health Plan) provides a partial rebate, not full funding.
Medicare contributes a small portion of the fee, and you pay the remaining gap.
This is similar to how Medicare rebates work for physiotherapy, psychology and other allied health services.
Does Medicare cover the full cost of speech therapy for children?
No. Medicare rebates help reduce the cost, but they do not cover the full session fee.
Families pay the gap between the Medicare rebate and the practice’s fee.
Does the NDIS fund speech therapy?
Yes. NDIS provides funding for speech therapy for self-managed and plan-managed participants.
(Agency-managed plans cannot be used as we are not NDIS registered.)
Can adults get funding for speech therapy?
Yes. Adults may access Medicare items, Private Health rebates or NDIS funding if eligible.
What if I’m not eligible for NDIS or Medicare?
You may still be able to get support through Centrelink payments, charities, or insurance if therapy is needed following an illness or accident.
How do I know which funding option is right for me?
You can call us anytime. We’ll help you understand your options and guide you toward the most affordable funding pathway for your needs.
Why do people think speech therapy is free with a Medicare plan?
Many families tell us they were advised that speech therapy would be free with a Medicare referral.
What this usually means is that you can claim a Medicare rebate, but Medicare only covers part of the session cost.
The remaining amount (the “gap”) is paid by the family.
Allied health services such as physio, OT, psychology and speech pathology all work the same way under Medicare.
If you’re unsure which funding option applies to your situation, we’re always happy to guide you through it. Reach out through our Contact page and our friendly team will be happy to guide you.