Can a support worker drive me to appointments and activities?
Short answer
Yes, a support worker can often drive you to appointments, shopping or community activities as part of your NDIS supports. The provider may charge for the worker's time and a per-kilometre amount for using a vehicle, within NDIS price limits. Check how transport is charged and whose car is used in your service agreement before you start.
Getting to places is often the hardest part of a day out. If you do not drive, cannot easily use public transport or need help once you arrive, having your support worker take you can make all the difference.
This guide explains how transport usually works with NDIS supports, how it is charged and what to check with your provider. NDIS rules and price limits change, so always check the latest details on ndis.gov.au.
Can a support worker drive me to appointments and activities?
Yes, in many cases a support worker can drive you to activities, shopping, social outings and appointments as part of your supports. This is common when the worker is helping with community participation.
For example, someone might have a worker drive them to the supermarket, help them shop, then drive them home. Another person might be driven to a weekly art class or a sports game, with the worker staying to help.
Driving is usually part of a wider support. The worker is there to help you take part in the activity as well as to get you there. You can read more on our community participation page.
How is transport charged under the NDIS?
Transport is usually charged in two parts: the worker's time and the cost of using a vehicle. Both should be set out in your service agreement and must stay within the NDIS price limits.
The maximum prices providers can charge for NDIS supports are set out in the NDIS pricing schedule, which the NDIA publishes on its website. Providers can charge less than these limits, and they should only charge travel and transport costs you have agreed to beforehand.
The NDIA's detailed pricing guidance sets the exact per-kilometre limits and travel time rules. Because these figures can change, ask your provider what rates they use and check the current pricing documents on ndis.gov.au.
What is the difference between provider travel and activity-based transport?
Provider travel is the worker travelling to reach you, while activity-based transport is the worker driving you during your support. They are claimed in different ways.
| Type | What it covers | What may be charged |
|---|---|---|
| Provider travel | The worker getting to your home or meeting place to start a support | Travel time, plus some vehicle costs, within limits and only if agreed |
| Activity-based transport | The worker driving you to and from an activity as part of your support | A per-kilometre amount for the vehicle (a non-labour cost), plus costs such as parking or tolls if agreed |
The worker's time while driving you is usually charged as part of the support itself, such as an hour of community participation. The kilometres are then added as a separate non-labour cost.
Not every provider charges provider travel. Ask how yours handles it before you sign anything.
Whose car does the support worker use?
Most often the worker uses their own car, which should be roadworthy, legal to drive and covered by appropriate insurance for carrying participants. Ask your provider what checks they make on workers' vehicles and licences.
Some people would prefer the worker to drive the participant's own car, for example a modified vehicle. This may be possible only if the provider's policies and insurance allow it. Never assume it is covered, and get the arrangement in writing first.
If you use a wheelchair or other mobility equipment, check that the car can carry it safely. A standard car may not suit everyone.
What is the Transport budget in my NDIS plan?
Transport is one of the four Core support categories, and some plans include funding to help with the cost of getting around. It is generally for people who cannot travel independently on public transport because of their disability.
According to ndis.gov.au, recurring transport funding can cover taxis, rideshare services and other private travel. The NDIA can pay it to your nominated bank account on a regular basis, or you can claim it through the participant portals or the my NDIS app.
When deciding on transport funding, the NDIA also considers what help family, carers and community networks can reasonably give. Your plan will show whether you have this funding and how it can be used. If you are unsure, ask your support coordinator, plan manager or Local Area Coordinator.
Can I use public transport or taxis instead?
Yes, you can use public transport or taxis, either on your own or with your support worker. Many people use a mix depending on the trip.
Travelling by bus or train with a worker can also be a way to build confidence and skills for travelling more independently. Our travel and transport support page explains how a worker can help with this.
If your worker travels with you on public transport, ask whether their fare will be charged to you and how. Taxi and rideshare costs are often paid from transport funding rather than through the provider.
What should I ask my provider about transport?
Ask exactly how transport will be charged and get it written into your service agreement before supports start. Clear answers now help avoid surprise costs on your invoices.
- Do you charge provider travel, and if so, how much and for how long?
- What per-kilometre rate do you charge when the worker drives me?
- Will parking, tolls or public transport fares be charged, and when?
- Whose car will be used, and what insurance covers me as a passenger?
- Which part of my plan will transport costs come from?
- How will kilometres be recorded and shown on my invoices?
Raising this at your meet and greet is a good idea, so the worker knows what you expect too.
Can Enrichment Care help with transport?
Yes, travel and transport support is one of the core supports Enrichment Care offers. Our workers can help you get to appointments, activities and errands as part of your daily living support.
We will explain how transport is charged before you agree to anything. To talk about what you need, visit find your support worker or call us on 1300 543 123.
Frequently asked questions
Can my support worker drive me to a medical appointment?
Often, yes. A worker can drive you to an appointment and help you get there and back as part of your supports. The appointment itself is paid for separately, usually through the health system, not from your NDIS plan.
Does the NDIS pay for my petrol or car costs?
The NDIS does not usually fund everyday costs of running your own car, as these are seen as day-to-day living costs. If a provider drives you, they may charge a per-kilometre amount for their vehicle, within NDIS price limits.
Will I be charged for the worker's travel to my home?
You may be, depending on your provider and service agreement. Some providers charge provider travel within NDIS limits and others do not. Ask about it before you sign so there are no surprises.
Where can I check current NDIS transport rates?
The NDIA publishes current price limits and pricing guidance on ndis.gov.au. Rates are reviewed regularly, so check the latest documents or ask your provider, plan manager or support coordinator to explain them.
This article is general information, not advice about your plan. NDIS rules and price limits change, so check ndis.gov.au or talk to your NDIS contact for current details. Last reviewed 4 October 2026.
