Why Driving Across the City for Therapy Might Not Be the Best Idea (and What To Do Instead)

Let’s be real—navigating the NDIS can sometimes feel like launching a mission to Mars. You’ve got your plan, a few referrals, and a therapy appointment that somehow requires a two-hour road trip. At first, you might think, well, this is what we’ve got to do—but over time, it takes a toll.

I’ve done it. I’ve packed the car with snacks, calm breathing techniques, and way too much water, just to get to a session that left us both exhausted by the end. And while the therapy was helpful, the logistics weren’t. What I didn’t realise at the time was that every kilometre was eating into our NDIS budget—not just in fuel, but in provider travel costs.

The Hidden Cost of Distance in Your NDIS Plan

Here’s how it works: most therapists and support providers charge for their travel time. It’s not just the face-to-face session you’re paying for, it’s the trip they make to get to you.
So if your therapist is an hour away, that’s two hours of your plan funding gone—before the session even begins.

For families managing tight NDIS budgets, that’s a major issue. It means less money left for therapy. And more importantly, it means more stress, more time on the road, and less time at home,where support should feel the most meaningful.

That’s when I had a moment of clarity. I stopped and asked myself: What if we looked for someone closer to home?

Closer Isn’t Just More Convenient—It’s Smarter

I started to explore options nearby, physiotherapists, psychologists, even support workers who were based in our area. It didn’t happen overnight. Some were booked out.
Some didn’t offer exactly what we needed. But slowly, we built a local network.

The result? Life got easier. The calendar opened up. The car stayed in the driveway more. And we had more sessions, more consistency, and more value from the NDIS plan.

There’s something powerful about working with Support Coordinators and therapists who live in your community. They know the local landscape. They can offer in-person sessions without tacking on travel charges. And they’re often more flexible and committed to supporting local families long-term.

When Distance Matters—And When It Doesn’t

Of course, there are times when travelling for a specific specialist makes sense. Some needs are unique, and some therapies are only available through particular providers. That’s okay. It’s about balance,not cutting out travel completely, but being strategic with when and where it’s worth it.

If a provider is essential but far away, maybe they can offer a telehealth session.
Or maybe you work with a mix: a local team for regular care, and a specialist you visit occasionally. The key is to understand how those decisions impact your plan, and to make informed choices—not just habitual ones.

You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone

If you’re tired of playing travel agent and support coordinator at the same time, there’s help. At SEQ Disability Support, we specialise in connecting families with local, trusted providers—people who live nearby, understand your needs, and can deliver consistent, effective support.

We work closely with local therapists, support workers, and community services across the region, and we know how to match you with the right fit, not just any available slot.

Whether you’re looking for allied health, personal care, or social support, we’ll help you access services that don’t drain your budget or your energy.

Less Time Driving. More Time Living.

NDIS support shouldn’t feel like a full-time logistics job. And therapy shouldn’t come with a two-hour drive just to access care. When you work with providers who are close to home, you gain back time, clarity, and control.

And at the end of the day, it’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what works—for you, your family, and your future.

Get in touch with SEQ Disability Support today.
Let’s find the support you need—right where you are.