NDIS Registration Group 0130 — Assistance Animals

Discover Independence with Assistance Animals

Connecting participants with specially trained assistance animals that empower greater independence, safety, and participation in everyday life.

Support category 0130

Nationwide Asset Management: NDIS Assistance Animals

At Nationwide Asset Management, we are proud to be an approved NDIS provider delivering high-quality supports under – Assistance Animals. Our nationwide team specialises in connecting participants with specially trained assistance animals that empower greater independence, safety, and participation in everyday life.

Whether you need support for mobility, sensory needs, medical alerts, psychiatric conditions, or daily task assistance, our expert services help you access the right assistance animal tailored to your goals and NDIS plan.

The right assistance animal for your goals
Overview

What Are Assistance Animals?

Assistance animals are animals (most commonly dogs) that have been specially trained by accredited providers to perform specific tasks or behaviours that you cannot do because of your disability. They go far beyond companionship—they are working partners.

To qualify as an NDIS-fundable assistance animal, the animal must:

  • Be trained to a high standard of obedience in public and community settings.
  • Perform at least three distinct tasks directly related to your disability.
  • Be sourced or trained through an accredited assistance animal provider.
Highly trained assistance dog
Assistance dog performing everyday tasks

Common examples of tasks include:

  • Retrieving dropped items or operating switches/drawers.
  • Guiding through crowds, stopping at kerbs, or navigating obstacles.
  • Alerting to sounds, medical changes (e.g., seizures, blood sugar levels), or anxiety triggers.
  • Opening/closing doors, fridges, or helping with laundry.
  • Providing physical bracing or stability support.
  • Creating a safe personal space in overwhelming environments.
Important Note: Pets, emotional support animals, or therapy animals used in structured sessions do not qualify as NDIS assistance animals. Only fully trained, task-specific assistance animals meet the criteria.
The difference

Why Choose Nationwide Asset Management for Your Assistance Animal?

As a trusted NDIS-registered provider with a national footprint, we deliver end-to-end solutions that align with your plan goals and the NDIS value-for-money principles:

Nationwide Coverage

Services available across Australia, with local coordinators in major cities and regional areas.

Expert Matching Process

We work with qualified assessors to pair you with the right animal based on your lifestyle, home environment, and specific needs.

Accredited Training Partners

Collaboration with leading trainers to ensure animals meet or exceed NDIS and industry standards.

Full Lifecycle Support

From initial assessment to ongoing maintenance, we handle the details so you can focus on living.

Participant-Centred Approach

Transparent, respectful, and empowering—your goals drive every step.

Asset Management Expertise

Leveraging our background in comprehensive asset solutions, we ensure long-term sustainability of your assistance animal partnership.

What we offer

Our Comprehensive Assistance Animal Services

We provide a full suite of supports funded under NDIS Category 0130:

  1. Initial Assessments and Suitability EvaluationsWorking with occupational therapists and accredited assessors to determine eligibility and complete the NDIS Assistance Animal Assessment Template.
  2. Animal Matching and AcquisitionSourcing suitable dogs (or other appropriate animals where applicable) that match your needs, temperament, and living situation. This includes purchasing or leasing options.
  3. Training and Handler DevelopmentCustom training programs for the animal and you as the handler. Public access training ensures the team works seamlessly in real-world environments.
  4. Ongoing Maintenance and CareFunding-eligible costs such as: veterinary services, vaccinations, and medications; food and dietary needs; grooming and hygiene; annual reviews and reaccreditation; equipment (harnesses, vests, ID tags).
  5. Reviews and Plan AdjustmentsRegular check-ins to monitor effectiveness and support plan reviews for continued funding.
What you gain

Benefits of an Assistance Animal

Participants often report life-changing improvements:

Increased IndependencePerform daily tasks with less reliance on others.
Enhanced SafetyAlerts and physical assistance reduce risks.
Greater Community ParticipationConfidently access public spaces, transport, and activities.
Improved Mental HealthReduced anxiety, increased confidence, and emotional regulation support.
Long-Term ValueA well-matched assistance animal can provide years of reliable support, often proving cost-effective over time.
The process

The Process: From Enquiry to Partnership

  1. Initial ContactReach out via phone, email, or our website form. Our team will discuss your needs and NDIS plan.
  2. Eligibility AssessmentWe guide you through evidence requirements and connect you with qualified assessors.
  3. NDIS Funding RequestSupport with documentation and quotes for your plan review or internal review if needed.
  4. Matching & TrainingOnce approved, we match and train your animal.
  5. Ongoing SupportRegular follow-ups to ensure success.
Timeline Note: The process can take several months due to training requirements—early engagement is recommended.
Who it's for

Who Can Benefit?

Assistance animals may be suitable for participants with:

  • Physical or mobility disabilities.
  • Vision or hearing impairments.
  • Neurological or medical conditions requiring alerts.
  • Psychiatric or psychosocial disabilities (e.g., PTSD support dogs).
  • Autism or sensory processing needs.

Each case is assessed individually against NDIS guidelines.

Good to know

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is my pet eligible to become an assistance animal?

Generally no. Most NDIS-funded assistance animals are purpose-bred and trained from a young age by accredited providers. Existing pets rarely meet the rigorous standards.

How much does it cost?

Costs vary based on individual needs. NDIS may fund assessments, acquisition/training, and ongoing care where reasonable and necessary. We provide detailed quotes.

What if I already have funding in my plan?

We can help utilise existing budgets or support requests for additional funding during plan reviews.

Are there breed restrictions?

Suitability depends on temperament, size, and health rather than breed alone. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and similar breeds are common, but we assess case-by-case.

Can I take my assistance animal everywhere?

Yes—Australian law grants public access rights to properly identified assistance animal teams in most public spaces (with limited exceptions).

Get Started Today

Ready to explore how an assistance animal can support your NDIS goals? Our compassionate team is here to answer questions, provide guidance, and help you take the next step toward greater independence.

Contact us today

Contact Us

Phone: 03 9533 2826
Locations: Nationwide Services Australia-wide
Locations
  • Victoria
  • NSW
  • Queensland
  • Northern Territory
  • Alice Springs
  • South Australia.
  • Western Australia
  • Tasmania

Nationwide Asset Management – Empowering Lives Through Trusted Asset Solutions, Including NDIS Assistance Animals.