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# Understanding the NDIS Taxi Card in 2025: Comprehensive Guide for Participants and Providers Navigating transport options as an NDIS participant can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to understand how the NDIS taxi card system works alongside your transport funding. With recent changes to transport support arrangements and new pricing structures taking effect in 2025, it's crucial to understand your options and rights. This comprehensive guide will help NDIS participants, families, and providers understand how taxi cards work within the NDIS framework, what's changed in 2025, and how to make the most of available transport support. The NDIS taxi card, more formally known as state-based Taxi Subsidy Schemes (TSS), provides essential transport support for people with disabilities who cannot use public transport independently. These schemes work alongside NDIS transport funding to create a comprehensive support network that enables participants to access their communities, employment, and essential services. Understanding how these systems interact is key to maximizing your transport independence and budget efficiency. ## Introduction to the NDIS Taxi Card The term "NDIS taxi card" often refers to state and territory-based Taxi Subsidy Schemes that provide fare reductions for eligible people with disabilities. These schemes operate independently from the NDIS but work in conjunction with NDIS transport funding to provide comprehensive transport support. Each state and territory operates its own taxi subsidy program with different benefits and eligibility criteria. For example, [New South Wales' Taxi Transport Subsidy Scheme (TTSS) provides a 50% fare subsidy up to $60 per trip, claimable via a TTSS smartcard (tap-and-go) or paper dockets. Wheelchair Accessible Taxi Driver Incentive Subsidy (WATDIS) payments range from $25 (day) to $50 (public holiday) per eligible trip](https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/point-to-point-transport/taxi-transport-subsidy-scheme). Meanwhile, [Queensland's Taxi Subsidy Scheme (TSS) subsidises 50% of taxi fares up to $30 per trip, with unlimited journeys and membership valid for five years](https://www.qld.gov.au/disability/out-and-about/subsidies-concessions-passes/taxi-subsidy). ### NDIS Transport Funding Levels The NDIS provides transport funding through three distinct annual support levels, designed to match participants' engagement in work, study, or community programs. [Three annual transport support levels apply to NDIS participants' plans, based on their engagement in work, study or day programs: Level 1: $1,784 for participants not working/studying but seeking community access; Level 2: $2,676 for those working/studying up to 15 hours/week or attending day programs; Level 3: $3,456 for those working/studying ≥15 hours/week and unable to use public transport](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/creating-your-plan/plan-budget-and-rules/transport-funding). These funding levels are designed to complement, not replace, state taxi subsidy schemes. The NDIS recognizes that participants may have access to multiple transport support options and aims to provide funding that fills gaps rather than duplicating existing supports. ### How State Schemes and NDIS Funding Work Together The integration between state taxi subsidy schemes and NDIS transport funding creates a layered support system. [During plan creation or review, participants (or nominees/support coordinators) must request an appropriate transport budget level based on their activity profile. The NDIA will "take into account any relevant taxi subsidy scheme" when setting the transport budget](https://www.ndis.gov.au/operational-guidelines/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline-transport). This means your NDIS planner will consider your access to state taxi subsidies when determining your transport funding allocation. However, it's important to note that having access to a taxi subsidy scheme doesn't automatically reduce your NDIS transport funding – the schemes are designed to work together to maximize your transport options and independence. ## Eligibility and Access Understanding eligibility for both NDIS transport funding and state taxi subsidy schemes is crucial for accessing comprehensive transport support. These systems have different eligibility criteria and application processes, though they often complement each other. ### NDIS Transport Funding Eligibility [NDIS transport funding is available only when a participant "cannot use public transport without substantial difficulty due to their disability"](https://www.ndis.gov.au/operational-guidelines/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline-transport). This criterion focuses on the functional impact of your disability on your ability to access mainstream transport options. The assessment considers various factors including mobility limitations, cognitive challenges, sensory impairments, and behavioral support needs that make public transport use difficult or impossible. It's not simply about convenience – the funding is specifically for participants whose disabilities create substantial barriers to using buses, trains, or other public transport services. When applying for NDIS transport funding, you'll need to demonstrate how your disability impacts your transport options and provide evidence of your work, study, or community engagement activities. This information helps planners determine the appropriate funding level for your circumstances. ### State Taxi Subsidy Scheme Applications [To access state TSS entitlements (the "taxi card"), participants must separately apply to their state or territory administering agency (e.g. Transport for NSW for TTSS; Department of Transport and Main Roads for QLD TSS), demonstrating a severe and permanent disability that prevents independent public transport use](https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/point-to-point-transport/taxi-transport-subsidy-scheme). The application process typically requires medical evidence from qualified health professionals who can verify your disability and its impact on your transport options. Each state has specific forms and assessment criteria, so it's important to check with your local transport authority for detailed requirements. For NDIS participants, having an approved NDIS plan can sometimes streamline the state taxi subsidy application process, as it provides evidence of your disability and support needs. However, you'll still need to complete the state-specific application and meet their eligibility criteria. ### Important Transition Considerations A significant change is coming for participants in some states. [Eligible NDIS participants can continue to use the TSS until 31 October 2025 when alternative transport support arrangements will apply](https://www.qld.gov.au/disability/out-and-about/subsidies-concessions-passes/taxi-subsidy). This transition period is crucial for participants to understand their future transport options and ensure continuity of support. If you're currently using a state taxi subsidy scheme, it's important to work with your support coordinator or planner to understand how this transition will affect your transport arrangements and what alternative supports will be available. For guidance on working effectively with your support team, check out our guide on [Empowering NDIS Participants: Choosing Your Own](/posts/empowering-ndis-participants-choosing-your-own-support-providers-f9164425) support providers. The transition also highlights the importance of understanding both current and future transport support options. Our comprehensive guide on [NDIS Person-Centred Emergency Preparedness](/posts/ndis-person-centred-emergency-preparedness-guide) includes important information about maintaining transport access during transitions and emergencies. ## Provider Roles and Responsibilities NDIS transport providers play a crucial role in ensuring participants can access their funded transport supports effectively. Understanding provider responsibilities helps both participants and providers navigate the system more successfully. ### Provider Requirements for Taxi Subsidy Schemes [Registered providers of transport services must accept state TSS smartcards or approved paper dockets for NDIS participants. In NSW, providers require a Cabcharge-compatible terminal to process TTSS smartcards and must enter their driver licence number for each trip](https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/point-to-point-transport/taxi-transport-subsidy-scheme). This requirement ensures that NDIS participants can seamlessly use their state taxi subsidies when accessing transport services. Providers who don't have the appropriate equipment or systems in place may not be able to offer the full range of transport options to participants. For providers, this means investing in the necessary technology and training staff to process different payment methods. It also requires understanding the specific requirements of each state's taxi subsidy scheme, as these can vary significantly across jurisdictions. ### Travel Cost Claims and Provider Responsibilities The relationship between providers and transport funding has specific rules about what can be claimed and how. [Providers may claim non-labour travel costs (fuel, tolls, parking) from participants' plans, with participants able to negotiate reasonable client contributions](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/4318-delivering-ndis-plan-flexibility-transport-funding-ndis-participants). This flexibility allows for practical arrangements between providers and participants, but it requires clear communication about costs and expectations. Providers should be transparent about their travel-related expenses and work with participants to find reasonable solutions that don't create financial hardship. The system also recognizes that transport costs can vary significantly depending on location, distance, and specific requirements. [Vehicle running costs (per‐kilometre rates) when delivered by providers alongside other supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/4318-delivering-ndis-plan-flexibility-transport-funding-ndis-participants) can be claimed when transport is provided as part of delivering other services. ### Technology and System Updates Providers need to stay current with system changes and technology updates that affect how they deliver services and process claims. The [transition from PRODA to myID and RAM](/posts/transition-from-proda-to-myid-and-ram-a-guide-for-ndis-providers-fe09bcf3) represents a significant change in how providers access NDIS systems and manage their service delivery. Understanding these technological changes is crucial for maintaining efficient service delivery and ensuring participants can access their supports without interruption. Providers should plan for these transitions and ensure their staff are trained on new systems and processes. ## Recent Updates and Changes The NDIS transport landscape has seen significant changes in 2025, with new pricing arrangements, system improvements, and updated claiming rules that affect both participants and providers. ### 2025 Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits [The NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL) 2025–26 came into effect on 1 July 2025, updating provider responsibilities and adding clarity on travel cost claims](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released). These changes provide greater clarity about what providers can claim and how transport costs should be managed. One of the most significant changes affects therapy providers. [From 1 July 2025, therapy providers claiming travel time may only claim 50% of their hourly price limit for time spent travelling (e.g. physiotherapists up to $92/hour) but can continue to claim full non-labour travel costs](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10827-travel-claiming-rules-gap-fees-and-other-costs). This change aims to encourage more efficient service delivery while still recognizing that travel costs are a legitimate part of providing services to participants in their homes and communities. For participants receiving therapy services, this may affect how providers structure their services and pricing. Learn more about therapy services in our guides on [Maximizing the Benefits of Occupational Therapy](/posts/maximizing-the-benefits-of-occupational-therapy-for-ndis-participants-0296dfd0) and [Unlocking Potential: The Role of Exercise](/posts/unlocking-potential-the-role-of-exercise-physiology-for-ndis-participants-2f096144) physiology. ### System Improvements and Technology Updates [System improvements to the myNDIS provider portal (July 2025) and the transition to myID/RAM for provider identity verification (mid-2025) aim to streamline claiming processes](https://improvements.ndis.gov.au/providers/provider-tools-and-resources/new-system-improvements). These improvements are designed to make it easier for providers to submit claims and for participants to track their service usage. The system improvements include better integration between different NDIS platforms, more intuitive user interfaces, and enhanced security features. For participants, this means potentially faster processing of claims and better visibility into how their funding is being used. ### Flexible Budget Allocation An important development in transport funding is increased flexibility in how participants can use their budgets. [Case Study – Lucy: Lucy's plan (2023–24 Support Catalogue) includes $3,000 in transport and $2,000 in consumables. She and her plan manager flexibly allocate the $5,000 across both categories to meet her transport and equipment needs](https://improvements.ndis.gov.au/providers/claims-and-payments/support-catalogue). This flexibility recognizes that participants' needs can change over time and that rigid budget categories don't always serve participants' best interests. It allows for more responsive and person-centered support arrangements. ### Success Stories and Practical Applications Real-world examples demonstrate how the updated transport funding arrangements can work effectively. [Example – Amira: Approved for vehicle modifications and driver training under Assistive Technology; plan funded a driver assessment and specialised driving lessons to enable her independent travel](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/how-ndis-supports-work-menu/mainstream-and-community-supports/who-responsible-supports-you-need/transport). These examples show how transport funding can be used creatively to build long-term independence rather than just providing ongoing transport services. This approach aligns with the NDIS goal of building participants' capacity and independence over time. For more information about innovative approaches to NDIS support, including housing solutions that can reduce transport needs, see our article on [Transforming Lives: Innovative Housing Solutions within](/posts/transforming-lives-innovative-housing-solutions-within-ndis-specialist-disabilit-13531dfb) NDIS specialist disability accommodation. ## Challenges and Solutions in NDIS Transport Despite improvements in transport funding and support systems, participants and providers continue to face challenges in accessing and delivering effective transport services. Understanding these challenges and available solutions helps everyone work toward better outcomes. ### Common Transport Accessibility Challenges One of the most significant challenges is the availability of accessible transport options, particularly wheelchair accessible taxis (WATs). Limited fleet availability can create long wait times and reduced access to community activities for participants who require accessible vehicles. Geographic challenges also affect transport access, with rural and remote participants often facing higher costs and limited service options. The per-kilometer funding rates may not always cover the true cost of transport in areas where services need to travel long distances between participants. Coordination between different transport support systems can also be complex. Participants may struggle to understand how their NDIS transport funding interacts with state taxi subsidy schemes, leading to underutilization of available supports or confusion about payment responsibilities. ### Innovative Solutions and Support Programs States are implementing targeted solutions to address transport accessibility challenges. [NSW's $15 million WAT Emergency Funding Package (from 31 March 2025) includes operational support grants of $2,500 per eligible WAT to improve fleet availability](https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/point-to-point-transport/accessible-point-to-point-transport-initiatives). This type of targeted investment helps address the fundamental issue of accessible vehicle availability, which benefits all users including NDIS participants. Similar initiatives in other states focus on improving the overall accessibility of transport systems. ### Improved Claiming and Service Delivery The updated travel claiming rules aim to address some systemic issues in service delivery. [Updated travel claiming rules encourage efficient scheduling and cap therapy travel claims at 50% of time price limits, with clear expectations for participants](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10827-travel-claiming-rules-gap-fees-and-other-costs). These changes encourage providers to optimize their service delivery routes and scheduling, potentially reducing overall costs and improving service availability. For participants, this may mean more predictable service delivery and clearer understanding of what they're paying for. For detailed information about how these changes specifically affect therapy providers, see our comprehensive guide on [NDIS Travel Pricing Changes for Therapy Providers in 2025](/posts/understanding-ndis-travel-pricing-changes-for-therapy-providers-in-2025-4b1f3b7f). ### Building Long-term Transport Independence The most effective solutions focus on building participants' long-term transport independence rather than just providing ongoing transport services. This might include funding for driver training, vehicle modifications, or assistive technology that enables independent travel. Support coordinators play a crucial role in helping participants explore all available options and develop comprehensive transport strategies. This includes understanding how different funding sources can work together and identifying opportunities to build independence over time. ## Conclusion Understanding the NDIS taxi card system and transport funding arrangements is essential for maximizing your independence and community participation. With the changes implemented in 2025, including updated pricing arrangements and system improvements, participants have more clarity about their options and greater flexibility in how they use their transport funding. The key to success is understanding how different support systems work together – your NDIS transport funding, state taxi subsidy schemes, and provider services all play important roles in creating comprehensive transport support. Don't hesitate to ask questions, seek clarification from your support coordinator, and advocate for transport arrangements that meet your specific needs and goals. Remember that transport funding is designed to enable your participation in work, study, and community activities. Whether you're using taxi services, private transport providers, or working toward independent driving, the goal is to remove barriers and create opportunities for full community participation. For personalized guidance on navigating your NDIS transport options and understanding how the recent changes affect your specific situation, consider connecting with [Sandi AI](https://sandi.app) for expert ## References 1. [Source](https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/point-to-point-transport/taxi-transport-subsidy-scheme) 2. [Source](https://www.qld.gov.au/disability/out-and-about/subsidies-concessions-passes/taxi-subsidy) 3. [Source](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/creating-your-plan/plan-budget-and-rules/transport-funding) 4. [Source](https://www.ndis.gov.au/operational-guidelines/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline/including-specific-types-supports-plans-operational-guideline-transport) 5. [Source](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/4318-delivering-ndis-plan-flexibility-transport-funding-ndis-participants) 6. [Source](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released) 7. [Source](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10827-travel-claiming-rules-gap-fees-and-other-costs) 8. [Source](https://improvements.ndis.gov.au/providers/provider-tools-and-resources/new-system-improvements) 9. [Source](https://improvements.ndis.gov.au/providers/claims-and-payments/support-catalogue) 10. [Source](https://ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au/how-ndis-supports-work-menu/mainstream-and-community-supports/who-responsible-supports-you-need/transport) 11. [Source](https://www.transport.nsw.gov.au/projects/programs/point-to-point-transport/accessible-point-to-point-transport-initiatives) 12. [Source](https://sandi.app)

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Understanding the NDIS Taxi Card in 2025: Comprehensive Guide for Participants and Providers

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Understanding the NDIS Taxi Card in 2025: Comprehensive Guide for Participants and Providers