Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis) — NDIS Support

Yes — Scleroderma (Systemic Sclerosis) can qualify for NDIS support. Scleroderma 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.

Scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the immune system triggers over-production of collagen, causing the skin and sometimes internal organs to thicken and harden (fibrosis). The name means 'hard skin'. It ranges from limited forms that mainly affect the skin…

Scleroderma & the NDIS FAQs

Is Scleroderma eligible for the NDIS?
Scleroderma isn't automatically eligible, and because it varies so much, access depends on whether it causes permanent, substantial impairment. People with lasting loss of hand function, mobility limits or organ-related disability may qualify, while milder cases may not. Evidence from your rheumatologist and…
What symptoms of scleroderma have the biggest daily impact?
Surveys of people with systemic sclerosis consistently rank fatigue, Raynaud's phenomenon, hand stiffness, joint pain and disturbed sleep among the most limiting symptoms. Loss of hand function — from skin tightening, stiffness and finger ulcers — often affects daily life the most, because it touches almost every…
Can scleroderma affect internal organs?
Yes. In systemic forms, scleroderma can affect the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary hypertension), heart, kidneys and digestive tract. These complications can be serious, so regular monitoring is an important part of care. Not everyone develops organ involvement, and limited forms mainly affect the skin and…
Is scleroderma the same as arthritis?
No, though they can overlap. Scleroderma is an autoimmune connective-tissue disease that hardens skin and can affect internal organs; joint pain and stiffness are common but are only part of the picture. It's a distinct condition from inflammatory arthritis, and care usually involves a rheumatologist coordinating a…
What supports help most with scleroderma?
Occupational therapy and hand therapy help protect grip and dexterity, while assistive technology and home modifications reduce strain. Support workers assist with tasks made hard by pain and fatigue, and physiotherapy maintains movement. Pain and fatigue management, dietitian input for reflux and eating, and…

Scleroderma & 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.