Epilepsy — NDIS Support

Yes — Epilepsy can qualify for NDIS support. Epilepsy is on the NDIA’s List B — permanence is recognised, and you evidence the functional impact on daily life. Funding covers reasonable and necessary supports across daily living, therapy, social participation and capacity building.

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterised by recurrent, unprovoked seizures — caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It affects over 250,000 Australians across all ages. Epilepsy is not a single condition but an umbrella term for over 40 different epilepsy syndromes with…

Epilepsy & the NDIS FAQs

Does epilepsy automatically qualify for NDIS?
No. Epilepsy is a List B condition — having a diagnosis does not automatically qualify you for NDIS. Most people with well-controlled epilepsy do not meet the NDIS disability threshold. To qualify, you must demonstrate that epilepsy causes permanent and significant functional impairment in daily life. Refractory…
What seizure monitoring devices can NDIS fund?
NDIS can fund assistive technology for seizure monitoring through Capital Supports, including: smartwatch-based seizure detectors (Emfit, Neuroprotek), bed sensors that detect convulsive movements during sleep, and remote monitoring systems. These require an OT or specialist to recommend and justify the device. Seizure…
What is rescue medication and who can administer it?
Rescue medication (such as midazolam or diazepam) is given to stop a prolonged seizure before it becomes a medical emergency. It is prescribed by a neurologist and can be administered by trained carers, support workers or family members as per an individualised seizure management plan. NDIS can fund training for…
Can NDIS fund someone to supervise bathing or swimming for epilepsy?
Yes. For people with frequent or unpredictable seizures, NDIS can fund supervision during activities with drowning or injury risk — such as bathing, showering and swimming. An OT safety assessment documenting the risk and recommended supervision level provides the evidence for this funding. The NDIS funds supports that…
I have epilepsy plus autism — does this help my NDIS application?
Yes. Co-occurring conditions can substantially strengthen an NDIS application. If you have epilepsy combined with ASD, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy or another NDIS-eligible condition, the combined functional impact across multiple domains provides a stronger basis for eligibility. Each condition should be…

Epilepsy & the NDIS — practical guides

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Reviewed by the Novida editorial team · last reviewed 2026-07-12. General information only — not medical advice.