A Complete Guide to Continence Products for NDIS Participants and Carers

Continence challenges affect millions of Australians across all age groups and are among the most common — yet least discussed — aspects of living with disability or chronic illness. Whether you're navigating continence needs for yourself, a family member, or the people you support, finding the right products can make an enormous difference to daily comfort, dignity, and independence.

This guide covers what continence products are available, how they work, how NDIS funding can help, and where to shop with confidence.

Important: Items marked as NDIS eligible may not be covered under your individual plan. If you're unsure, check with your plan manager or the NDIS before purchasing. Care Access (Plan Access) and our vendors can't guarantee item eligibility or funding.

Understanding Continence and Why Product Choice Matters

Continence refers to the ability to control bladder and bowel function. Many conditions that bring people into contact with the NDIS — including spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, acquired brain injuries, and intellectual disabilities — affect continence. Ageing also plays a role, with bladder and pelvic floor strength naturally declining over time.

Unmanaged continence challenges can affect sleep, skin health, social participation, and mental wellbeing. The right combination of products — matched to the individual's body, routine, and level of need — can restore dignity and significantly reduce care burden.

Types of Continence Products: What's Available

The continence product market has evolved significantly over the past decade, with options now available for a wide range of needs, body types, and activity levels. Here's a breakdown of the main categories available at Plan Access:

1. Absorbent Pull-Up Underwear

Pull-up style underwear is designed to look and feel like regular underwear while providing reliable absorbency. They are ideal for people who are mobile or semi-mobile and want to maintain independence in toileting. The AMD Absorbing Pull-up Underwear, Adult Cotton Feel, Maxi ($198.00 per carton of 6 bags) offers 2,450ml absorbency — suitable for heavy incontinence needs. The cotton-feel exterior minimises skin irritation and supports comfort during extended wear.

2. Absorbent Briefs and Full Briefs

For people with moderate to heavy incontinence, absorbent briefs provide structured protection. The Staydry Ladies Full Brief (400ml absorbency) is specifically designed for women and features a skin-toned, discreet finish. Available in multiple sizes and in both single-use and reusable formats, these products offer dignity alongside reliable protection.

3. Waterproof Mattress Protectors and Bed Pads

Protecting bedding and furniture is essential for anyone managing continence at home. A high-quality waterproof protector sits underneath regular bedding and prevents moisture from reaching the mattress — extending mattress life and reducing laundry burden significantly.

The Staydry Bamboo Quilted Waterproof Protector ($190.95) combines sustainability with performance. The bamboo surface layer is soft and breathable, reducing heat build-up that can contribute to skin breakdown, while the waterproof backing provides reliable protection. It's machine washable and designed to withstand the repeated washing required in care settings.

4. Bed Pads with Wings

For people who need targeted bed protection — particularly for those repositioning frequently or using specialised mattresses — bed pads with wings or tucking flaps provide a practical, repositionable solution. The Staydry Boss Bed Pad with Wings ($109.95) is NDIS-eligible and designed to stay in place even during movement, offering 3-litre absorbency for overnight protection. The wing design tucks securely under the mattress edge.

5. Drainage and Catheter Products

For people using catheters — whether short-term post-surgery or long-term for spinal cord injuries or other conditions — reliable drainage products are essential. The Livingstone Drainage Urine Bag (2000ml) is a clinically-grade product designed for home and facility use. Livingstone is a trusted Australian medical supplies brand known for quality and reliability.

6. Wheelchair and Chair Pads

Protection doesn't stop at the bed. For people who use wheelchairs or spend extended time in chairs, waterproof protection is equally important. The Staydry Wheelchair Poncho ($89.95) is a multipurpose NDIS-eligible product that provides seated protection while also functioning as a weather cover — ideal for outdoor use.

How to Choose the Right Continence Products

Selecting the right products often requires some trial and exploration. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Absorbency level: Products are rated by millilitre capacity (e.g. light = up to 200ml, moderate = 200–600ml, heavy = 600ml+). Always select a capacity that meets peak need — typically overnight — rather than average daily need.
• Body type and sizing: Proper fit is critical for both comfort and performance. Ill-fitting products can leak or cause skin irritation. Most reputable brands provide detailed sizing guides.
• Skin health: People with limited mobility are at higher risk of skin breakdown. Look for products with breathable, moisture-wicking surfaces and avoid products that retain heat.
• Activity level: Pull-up styles suit active users; tabbed briefs are better for bed-bound individuals or those requiring carer assistance.
• Washing and care: For reusable products, check wash instructions and durability ratings. Many reusable continence products are rated for 200+ washes.

NDIS Funding for Continence Products

The NDIS funds continence products under the Consumables support category for eligible participants. This typically covers disposable continence products where continence is a direct result of the participant's disability. Funding may cover pull-ups, pads, bed protection, catheters, and related accessories.

To access continence funding through the NDIS, participants typically require an assessment by a qualified continence nurse advisor or allied health professional. Your plan manager or support coordinator can assist with this process.

Important: Items marked as NDIS eligible may not be covered under your individual plan. If you're unsure, check with your plan manager or the NDIS before purchasing. Care Access (Plan Access) and our vendors can't guarantee item eligibility or funding.

Shopping Continence Products at Plan Access

Plan Access carries one of Australia's most comprehensive online ranges of continence products, from everyday essentials to specialist items. All NDIS-eligible products are clearly marked on the site, making it easy to identify what may be covered under your plan.

Browse the full Continence Care collection at Plan Access, or explore specific subcategories including Disposable Protection, Bed and Chair Protection, and Underpads.

Plan Access offers itemised receipts for easy NDIS plan manager claims, fast delivery across Australia, and dedicated customer support for participants and carers navigating product selection.

Plan Access is an Australian marketplace making everyday essentials—including continence products—accessible to people living with disability. The platform offers NDIS-approved items from trusted brands, simple checkout options, itemised receipts, fast delivery, transparent pricing, and dedicated customer support, helping participants and carers access products with confidence.