Period Underwear Now Funded Under the NDIS: What You Need to Know

Significant and empowering change has been introduced under the NDIS Transitional Rules 2024. For the first time, period underwear has been officially recognised as an assistive product for personal care and safety.

This update is listed in Schedule 1, Item 9 of the new rules, under “Provision of assistive products for self-care activities and participation in self-care”. Specifically, section (d) includes:

“Modified or adaptive products to manage menstruation including applicators and period underwear.”(Source: Transitional Rules 2024 – F2024L01257)

Why This Matters

For many people with disability, managing menstruation can be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. Traditional menstrual products are not always suitable or practical. Period underwear provides a safer, more dignified, and sustainable option—particularly for participants who require adaptive solutions to manage their personal care.

This recognition means:

• Funding Access: NDIS participants can now seek funding for period underwear through their plans.

• Improved Dignity: Managing menstruation becomes less stressful and more accessible.

• Sustainability: Period underwear is reusable, reducing the ongoing cost and waste associated with disposable products.

Who Can Benefit?

This change is aimed at participants or prospective participants generally—meaning it’s not limited to certain conditions. Anyone who requires modified or adaptive products to manage menstruation may be eligible.

What Support Coordinators & Providers Should Know

• This falls under Core Supports – Consumables, specifically Assistive Products for Personal Care and Safety.

• Participants may need a letter of support from a health professional (such as a GP, OT, or nurse) outlining why period underwear is a reasonable and necessary support.

• Plans should clearly link the product to improved daily living, independence, and participation.

This legislative change is a powerful step towards recognising the real, everyday needs of people with disability. By including period underwear under the NDIS, participants gain greater choice and control in managing their personal care with dignity and confidence.

For anyone considering whether period underwear could be included in their NDIS plan, now is the time to discuss it with your Support Coordinator or Planner.

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