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When it comes to supporting people with disabilities, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers a wide range of therapeutic options that go far beyond traditional supports. One of the most effective — yet often underutilised — therapies available under the NDIS is hydrotherapy.
Hydrotherapy is much more than just “exercising in water”. It’s a clinically guided, highly tailored form of therapy that supports participants in achieving their physical, emotional, and social goals — all within a warm, low-impact, and calming environment.
In this article, we’ll break down what hydrotherapy actually is, how it helps, and how it fits within the NDIS funding framework.
What is hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy, sometimes referred to as aquatic physiotherapy, involves the use of warm water to perform therapeutic exercises. These sessions are typically led by a registered physiotherapist or occupational therapist who understands both the participant’s condition and the therapeutic use of water.
Unlike recreational swimming or water play, hydrotherapy is purpose-driven. It’s designed to:
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Improve physical function
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Reduce pain and stiffness
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Promote relaxation
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Assist with rehabilitation and recovery
Hydrotherapy pools are usually heated to between 33 and 36°C, which helps relax muscles and increase blood circulation — perfect for easing pain, reducing inflammation, and enhancing movement.
Who Can Benefit from Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is suitable for people of all ages and across a wide range of conditions. It is particularly beneficial for individuals with:
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Neurological conditions: such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or acquired brain injuries
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Musculoskeletal conditions: such as arthritis, joint injuries, or chronic pain
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Developmental and sensory conditions: including autism, global developmental delay, and sensory processing disorders
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Post-surgery recovery or mobility impairments
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Balance or coordination challenges
Because hydrotherapy is low-impact and adjustable to each participant’s needs, it offers a safer and more comfortable way to move, particularly for those who find land-based therapies too painful or restrictive.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy for NDIS Participants
Hydrotherapy offers a wide range of physical, psychological, and social benefits — and many of these directly align with participant goals in their NDIS plans. Some of the key benefits include:
1. Improved Mobility and Strength
The resistance of water helps build muscle strength, while buoyancy reduces the impact on joints. This allows participants to work on walking, stretching, and balance in a safe, controlled setting.
2. Pain Relief and Relaxation
Warm water promotes blood flow, which can reduce pain and stiffness — particularly beneficial for participants with arthritis or muscular issues. It also encourages relaxation, which can have a calming effect on the nervous system.
3. Sensory Regulation
For participants on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing challenges, the water offers a soothing and controlled sensory experience. This can help reduce anxiety and promote emotional regulation.
4. Increased Confidence and Independence
Achieving even small movements in the pool can feel like a major win. Over time, this builds self-confidence and encourages participants to engage more in other areas of their lives — from social activities to self-care routines.
5. Social Interaction
Group hydrotherapy sessions (where suitable) create opportunities for participants to interact with others, build friendships, and develop communication skills — all while working toward their therapy goals.
How is Hydrotherapy Funded Under the NDIS?
Hydrotherapy can be funded under the NDIS if it is directly related to a participant’s goals and deemed “reasonable and necessary”.
Here’s how it may be included:
1. Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living
If hydrotherapy is delivered by a qualified allied health professional (e.g., a physiotherapist), it may fall under this category. This funding is designed to build functional skills, such as mobility, self-care, or daily living activities.
Example:
A participant with cerebral palsy is referred to hydrotherapy to improve walking ability and reduce spasticity. Their physiotherapist creates a plan and provides regular reports to track progress.
2. Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life / Community Participation
If a support worker is assisting the participant to attend hydrotherapy (e.g., providing transport, supervision, or help in and out of the water), these costs may be claimed under Core Supports, depending on individual needs.
Example:
A participant with autism needs a support worker to help them travel to the pool, assist with dressing, and stay nearby during the session for reassurance.
What’s Needed to Include Hydrotherapy in an NDIS Plan?
To receive funding for hydrotherapy, participants (or their support coordinators) typically need to provide:
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A therapy report or recommendation from a registered allied health professional
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Evidence that hydrotherapy aligns with the participant’s NDIS goals
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A quote or outline of sessions, especially if ongoing
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Progress reports (especially during plan reviews)
Having clear documentation that shows why hydrotherapy is reasonable and necessary greatly improves the chances of it being approved and funded under the plan.
How Home Care Experts Supports Participants with Hydrotherapy
At Home Care Experts, we understand that every participant is unique — and so is their therapy journey.
We assist in:
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Connecting participants with registered hydrotherapy providers across Melbourne
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Coordinating transport and support staff
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Supporting participants and families with documentation for NDIS planning
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Collaborating with therapists to track and report on outcomes
Whether you’re new to hydrotherapy or exploring it as part of a future NDIS plan, our team is here to help every step of the way.
Hydrotherapy is a powerful tool that supports physical healing, emotional wellbeing, and daily independence. When included as part of a well-planned NDIS journey, it can open doors to greater mobility, confidence, and quality of life.
If you or someone you support could benefit from hydrotherapy, reach out to our team to learn more about how we can help make it part of your NDIS plan.
📞 Contact us today to get started.
