Transport funding isn’t just about getting from A to B. It’s about independence, opportunity and staying connected to the life you want. Too many participants feel stuck with the wrong transport level simply because the rules were never explained properly. This guide walks you step-by-step through Levels 1, 2 and 3 so you can feel confident you’re funded fairly.
What Are NDIS Transport Levels?
NDIS transport levels decide how much funding you receive to travel to school, work, appointments, community activities or your daily routines. They sit under your Core – Transport budget. To determine your funding level, the NDIS looks closely at your real life to work out how often you travel, how independent you are, whether you can safely use public transport, and how your disability affects your ability to get around your community.
No matter which NDIS transport level you’re on, your transport allowance works the same way. It isn’t means-tested, so you don’t need to keep or submit receipts. The NDIS simply pays the amount directly into your bank account every fortnight, giving you the freedom to use it whenever you need to travel.
If you’re not sure whether your current transport level matches your needs, you can use Achora’s free NDIS Plan Check tool to get instant clarity and see whether your funding reflects your actual routine.
NDIS Transport Level 1: For People Who Travel Occasionally
NDIS Transport Level 1 sits at the lowest end of transport funding and supports people who can travel mostly on their own. If you can safely use public transport and only need the occasional lift, Level 1 is usually where you’ll land. It’s designed for participants who travel infrequently, stick to short or local trips, and only need light help, like a ride to a medical appointment, support getting to a community group, or backup when public transport isn’t an option that day.
Think of someone who catches the train independently most of the week but needs a car ride now and then because of fatigue, bad weather or an important appointment. That’s a typical Level 1 situation. If you’ve noticed that you’re travelling more often or you’re no longer able to use public transport safely, that’s a sign your needs may have changed. A quick chat with a Support Coordinator can help you work out whether a higher level is a better fit for your current routine.
NDIS Transport Level 2: For Weekly Community Access
NDIS Transport Level 2 supports people who need regular help getting to their weekly activities but don’t require daily or intensive travel support. This level is often the right fit if you can’t use public transport safely on your own and you travel several times a week for things like therapy, education, volunteering, or community programs. Your routine is more consistent than a Level 1 participant, and you rely on transport support often enough that occasional assistance isn’t enough.
Level 2 usually suits you if you’re out and about most weeks, following a regular schedule, and you need dependable travel assistance to stay engaged in your activities. And if you feel your routine is getting busier or you’ve started needing support more often, it may be worth reviewing whether Level 3 is now a better match. Take a free, 15 minute conversation with one of our expert Support Coordinators, here. We’d be happy to help you assess what’s best for you.
NDIS Transport Level 3: For High and Ongoing Travel Needs
NDIS Transport Level 3 provides the highest level of transport funding and supports people who need daily or intensive help to get where they need to go. This level is designed for participants with complex disabilities or significant mobility challenges who cannot use public transport at all and rely on car-based or assisted travel for every trip. If you attend school, work, a day program, therapies or community activities most days of the week, Level 3 is usually the level that matches your routine.
Level 3 suits you if your disability means you need high, daily or intensive transport support to keep up with essential routines. And if your schedule changes or your support needs increase, it’s worth reviewing your funding to make sure your transport level still reflects your real-life needs.
How the NDIS Decides Your Transport Level
The NDIS looks at:
- Your weekly routine
- How your disability affects your mobility
- Whether you can use public or community transport
- Your work, education and social commitments
- Safety and independence needs
A Support Coordinator can help you present the right evidence, especially if you’re requesting an increase during a plan reassessment. This is where Achora can help, our team specialises in building strong transport-related evidence and explaining your needs clearly to the NDIA. If you’d like support getting transport funding, get in touch today.
How to Make the Most of Your Transport Funding
1. Track Your Weekly Travel Needs
Keep note of how often you travel, where you go and the support you need. This helps ensure your level matches your real life.
2. Combine Transport With Community Participation Supports
Support workers can transport you to community activities using your Support Worker – Transport line items.
3. Review Your Level Each Plan Cycle
If your routine changes, work, study or therapy increases, your transport funding should change too.
4. Use Achora’s Plan Check Tool
A quick way to assess whether your current transport budget aligns with your needs.
Need guidance? You can speak with a Support Coordinator at any time for personalised advice.
FAQS – NDIS Transport Levels
- What is the difference between NDIS transport levels 1, 2 and 3?
They differ based on how often you travel, your level of independence and how much support you need to access the community. - How do I know which transport level I should be on?
Look at your weekly routines. Daily or high travel needs usually mean Level 3; moderate weekly needs suggest Level 2; occasional needs fit Level 1. - Can I request a higher transport level in my next plan?
Yes. You’ll need evidence showing your current level does not meet your disability-related travel needs. - Does my transport allowance get paid to me directly?
Yes. NDIS transport funding is paid fortnightly into your bank account. - Can support workers drive me using NDIS funding?
Yes. They can use Support Worker – Transport line items from your Core supports. - What if I use a wheelchair-accessible vehicle?
This may influence your transport level. It may also fall under Assistive Technology or Capital Supports if modifications are needed. - Is transport funding the same as taxi vouchers or mobility allowances?
No. NDIS transport funding replaces the old Mobility Allowance and is tailored to your disability needs. - Can I use transport funding for Uber or rideshare?
Yes, as long as it aligns with your disability-related travel needs and your plan goals.
Your Transport Level Should Support Your Life
Your transport funding should support your real life, not limit it. If your NDIS transport level doesn’t match how often you travel or the support you need, it can affect everything: your independence, your social connections, your routines, even your ability to work or study.
If something feels “off”, it’s worth reviewing. Achora can help you understand your options, gather the right evidence and request a change in level if your needs aren’t being met.
If you want clarity, guidance or support advocating for the correct level, Achora is here to help.
- Book a free 15-minute consultation
- Discover gaps or opportunities in your plan, with our free Achora Plan Check tool
- Explore our Support Coordination and Plan Management services
You’re not meant to navigate your NDIS journey alone, and with Achora, you don’t have to. We’ll make sure your NDIS supports do what they should: allow you to thrive everyday.