If you are experiencing bladder or bowel issues, know that you are not alone.
Managing incotinence can be expensive, but luckily, help is available.
Continence Funding Schemes in Australia
Did you know that you may be eligible for financial support for your continence products? The Australian Government and State Governments provide a variety of aid programs that can help you to cover some of the expenses of your continence products.
Continence Funding Schemes Available in Australia
Continence Funding Schemes Available in Australia
If you are experiencing bladder or bowel issues, know that you are not alone.
Managing incotinence can be expensive, but luckily, help is available.
It is important to be informed about your rights.
The Australian Government and State Governments provide a variety of aid programs that can help you to cover some of the expenses of your continence products.
Let's begin by talking about two national schemes, funded by the Federal Government.
NDIS
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a scheme that works across Australia. It is intended to assist participants in receiving the required assistance so that their independence can grow over time.
To be eligible, you must be between the ages of 7 and 65 when you join, and you must be an Australian citizen (or permanent resident) who lives in Australia.
ConfidenceClub is a fully audited and Registered NDIS Provider, and has been for the last few years.
Click on this link to learn how to buy continence management items with NDIS funding.
CAPS
CAPS, the Continence Aids Payment Scheme, is funded through Medicare. CAPS provides payment each year to assist eligible people with permanent and severe incontinence.
To be eligible, you must be over 5 years of age and have severe and permanent incontinence, which has been confirmed by a registered health professional like a Doctor, Registered Nurse, or Continence Physiotherapist. You must also be a permanent resident or citizen while getting the payments and have an eligible condition, as outlined by the Department of Health.
For 2022–23, the CAPS payment rate is $650.40. Following the Government's budget process, the payout may grow or drop marginally each year.
State Funding Schemes
State and territory schemes provide a range of equipment to community members with permanent or long-term disabilities.
Based on the state you live, you might have additional support options available:
• New South Wales - ENABLE
It provides assistive technology and related services to people in NSW with specific, short term or ongoing health needs to assist them in living safely at home by providing appropriate assistive technology, like continence aids.
• Queensland - MASS
It is subsidy funding for medical aids and equipment and is available to eligible Queenslanders with permanent/stable conditions or disabilities. This also includes consumables like continence aids.
• Victoria - SWEP
A state-wide equipment program providing services and systems that support consumers and the practitioners who work with them to access assistive technology items that meet their goals and needs.
• Westerna Australia - CMASS
It is a product subsidy programme for CMASS-eligible individuals aged 16 and up. Independence Australia manages and operates the scheme on behalf of the Department of Communities.
Need Help Choosing The Right Scheme?
For more information on any of these schemes, reach out to your GP, Registered Nurse, or Continence Physiotherapist.
Many public hospitals will have a Continence Nurse available for consultation. Don’t disregard your level of incontinence; many people wrongly feel they won’t fit the criteria.
You can also contact our friendly customer support team at hello@confidenceclub.com.au or call us at 1800861199