Understanding Provider Transport

Transport is a crucial component of disability support, helping participants maintain independence and engage with their communities. Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), providers can claim transport costs in specific circumstances. But to do so correctly—and ensure compliance—it’s essential to understand the rules around transport invoicing.

When Can Providers Claim for Transport?

NDIS providers can claim transport costs when they’re delivering a support that requires travel, such as:

• Transporting a participant to and from a community activity

• Driving a participant to a medical appointment, employment, or education

• Attending support services where travel is built into the support plan

However, there are two key types of transport charges under the NDIS:

1. Activity-Based Transport (Support Item Transport)

This covers the cost of transporting the participant as part of a support. For example, a support worker taking a participant to the gym or a day program. These costs are usually billed at an agreed rate per kilometre (e.g. $0.97/km as per NDIS Price Guide or a rate agreed upon in the service agreement).

2. Provider Travel (Non-Face-to-Face)

This covers the provider’s time spent traveling to deliver a support. It's typically billable for core and capacity building supports if the time spent traveling is reasonable and agreed upon in advance.

What Should Be Included in a Transport Invoice?

To ensure clarity and compliance, your invoice for transport-related supports should include:

• Participant’s full name

• NDIS number

• Date(s) of service

• Type of transport (Activity-based or Provider travel)

• Number of kilometres travelled

• Per kilometre rate charged

• Total amount

• Start and end location (optional but helpful for transparency)

• Service Agreement reference (if applicable)

Example:

Date	Description	KM	Rate	Amount
12/04/2025	Transport to GP appointment	18km	$0.97	$17.46
12/04/2025	Provider travel to participant’s home	10km	$0.97	$9.70

Tips for Best Practice

• Always include transport details in your service agreement to avoid confusion later.

• Use GPS or Google Maps to confirm trip distances if required.

• Be clear and transparent with the participant or their nominee about how charges are calculated.

• Ensure your invoice matches the NDIS item codes for transport and travel.

• Review the current NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits regularly.

Final Thoughts

Transport is often the bridge between isolation and inclusion for many NDIS participants. By invoicing correctly and transparently, providers can deliver this crucial support while maintaining trust and compliance. If you’re ever unsure, referring back to the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements or speaking with a plan manager or support coordinator can help clarify specific scenarios.