When the NDIS pays for speech pathology
- The therapy relates to your disability and helps with goals in your plan, such as talking, understanding, social skills, eating and drinking safely, or using a communication device.
- Your plan has funding for therapy, usually in Improved Daily Living. Children under 9 may get it through early childhood supports.
- Speech therapy that is mainly about school learning is usually the education system's job, and short-term therapy after a stroke or surgery is usually covered by the health system.
What speech pathology can help with
- Speech and language: saying words, understanding, building sentences
- Communication devices and other ways to communicate (AAC)
- Swallowing and safe eating and drinking (dysphagia)
- Social skills, stuttering and voice
How much NDIS speech pathology costs
| What | 2026–27 price limit |
|---|---|
| Speech Pathology, per hour | $193.99 |
| 45-minute session (0.75 hours) | $145.49 |
| 30-minute session (0.5 hours) | $97.00 |
| Telehealth | Same hourly limit |
These are maximums, paid from your plan. If your therapist travels to you, travel time may also be claimed, but only if it's agreed with you first. Higher limits apply in remote and very remote areas.
How to get started
- Check your plan for therapy funding, usually in Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living.
- Send a referral. You don't need a GP referral. You, a family member, a support coordinator or a plan manager can refer.
- Agree the costs in writing before the first session.
Want to start speech pathology through your NDIS plan?
Tell us what you need and the best time to call. We'll call you back and match you with a therapist in Perth, Mandurah, Joondalup or the South West, or by telehealth.
Make a referral →Frequently asked questions
Does the NDIS cover speech pathology?
Yes, when it's reasonable and necessary and linked to your disability and plan goals. It's usually paid from your Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living budget.
What is the NDIS speech pathology hourly rate?
The NDIS price limit for speech pathology is $193.99 per hour in 2026–27, with higher limits in remote and very remote areas.
Do I need a GP referral for NDIS speech pathology?
No. You can refer yourself, or a family member, support coordinator or plan manager can refer you.
Can speech pathology be done by telehealth?
Yes. Many sessions work well by video, with the same NDIS hourly price limit.
Price limits from the NDIS Pricing Schedule 2026–27. Prices can change. Funding decisions are made by the NDIA. General information only. MyCarePlus is not a registered NDIS provider and is not the NDIA.