What Support Is Available for Incontinence Products in Australia

Support for incontinence products in Australia comes from the federal government, state programs, and organisations like the NDIS and DVA. The main scheme, CAPS, also provides up to $717.10 per year for eligible Australians with permanent and severe incontinence. State programs, My Aged Care packages, and veteran benefits can cover costs for pads, pants, and mattress protectors as well.

But the problem is that many Australians feel embarrassed even asking about funding for continence aids or free incontinence pads for pensioners. Plus, the forms, eligibility rules, and multiple schemes can make the whole process feel overwhelming.

At Ontex Healthcare, we specialise in continence products and resources to help Australians manage incontinence with dignity. With over 7.2 million people experiencing some form of bladder or bowel control issues, you’re certainly not alone.

We created this guide to walk you through practical support options. You will learn about the Continence Aids Payment Scheme, state funding programs, and how to choose the right bed pads and incontinence products.

Let’s start with what the Continence Aids Payment Scheme offers.

Continence Aids Payment Scheme: What It Is and How It Helps

The Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) is an Australian Government program that provides annual payments to cover the cost of incontinence products.

Here is how to check your eligibility and apply.

What Is CAPS Funding?

CAPS gives eligible Australians money each year to help pay for continence products. The program is designed for people living with permanent and severe incontinence, whether that affects the bladder, bowel, or both.

The payment lands directly in your bank account, so you have complete freedom over how you spend it. Plus, you’re not locked into buying from one supplier or one brand either. This means you can choose disposable or washable pads, whichever suits your lifestyle best.

Who Is Eligible?

You need to meet a few requirements to qualify for CAPS.

First, you must be five years or older and either an Australian citizen or permanent resident.

Second, your incontinence must be permanent and severe, meaning it will not improve with treatment or surgery. A registered health professional also needs to confirm this on your application form.

Third, your incontinence must come from an eligible condition. For example, if you have a neurological condition like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or a spinal cord injury, you can apply without holding a Pensioner Concession Card. But for non-neurological conditions, you will need a valid Centrelink or DVA Pensioner Concession Card to qualify.

How to Apply for CAPS

If you have a Medicare account linked to myGov, you can apply online through the myGov website or the Express Plus Medicare app.

But if you prefer paper, you can download the CAPS application form from the Department of Health and Aged Care website, or call to request a copy.

Now, even if you apply online, a registered health professional still needs to complete the Health Report section on a paper form. Once they have done that, you can upload it to your online application or post everything together to Services Australia.

And don’t feel anxious if you get stuck at any point. You can always call the CAPS team for help on 1800 239 309, Monday to Friday between 8:30am and 5pm.

How Much Do You Receive?

Like we mentioned earlier, for the 2025–26 financial year, the CAPS payment is $717.10. But this amount can change slightly each year depending on the government’s budget process.

Fortunately, you get to choose how often you receive the payment. We often notice people prefer one lump sum in July at the start of the financial year. While others find it easier to split it into two payments (one in July and another in January).

The money will also go straight into your nominated Australian bank account. And the best part is that CAPS payments don’t count as taxable income, so you will not lose any of it to tax.

How to Pick the Right Continence Products for Your Needs

The right continence product depends on your level of leakage, mobility, skin sensitivity, and if you need protection during the day, night, or both. Below, we share practical tips to help you find products that will work for your situation.

What CAPS Covers

You can use your CAPS funding for any continence products you need. Since there are no restrictions on brands or product types, you have complete freedom over what you buy and where you shop.

Most people use their CAPS payment for things like incontinence pads, pull-up pants, all-in-one slips, bed pads, and mattress protectors. The scheme also covers washable underwear and reusable bed protection.

And if you are caring for a child with nocturnal enuresis (the medical term for bedwetting), disposable nappies also fall under CAPS funding.

How to Select the Right Product

The first thing to consider is how much leakage you are dealing with.

For light incontinence, small liners or pads that tuck inside your regular underwear often do the job well. But if you experience moderate to heavy leakage, you will likely need something with higher absorbency, like pull-up pants or all-in-one slips.

Your mobility plays a role, too. Pull-up pants work well for people who are active and on their feet during the day because they fit snugly and stay in place. On the other hand, if you have limited mobility or need help changing, tab-style slips can be much easier to manage.

And don’t ignore skin sensitivity. Products made with breathable materials can help draw moisture away from the skin (which reduces the risk of irritation).

Now, if nighttime leakage is a concern, we recommend longer pads or absorbent briefs for overnight use. These have higher absorbency so you can sleep through without interruptions.

Pro tip: Many suppliers offer free sample packs so you can try different products before committing to a full order. Your local pharmacist can also point you in the right direction if you are not sure where to start.

Where to Buy Incontinence Products in Australia

Supermarkets and pharmacies carry basic options, like light or medium absorbency pads. You can look for specialist continence suppliers (including most health supply stores) to find a wider range and even get personalised advice.

Continence Health Australia also has a helpful directory listing continence product suppliers across the country. Most of these suppliers offer home delivery, so your products will arrive discreetly at your door if you don’t want any awkward trips to the shops.

Role of Professionals

It’s normal to feel confused about which products will work best for you. So, don’t hesitate to reach out to your GP, continence nurse, or even your local pharmacist. They can assess your situation and suggest options suited to your needs.

There is also a free service called the National Continence Helpline. It is staffed by continence nurse advisers who can give you confidential advice on product choices, management strategies, and local services.

You can reach them on 1800 330 066, Monday to Friday between 8am and 8pm. We often recommend them as a great resource for talking things through with someone who understands.

Access Support That Improves Your Daily Life

We hope this helped clear up how CAPS funding works and what options are available to you. Always remember that support exists, and you deserve to access it.

The Australian Government offers programs like CAPS to assist eligible people with the cost of continence products. If CAPS does not fit your situation, other schemes like the DVA Rehabilitation Appliances Program, NDIS, or My Aged Care may be able to help you receive assistance instead.

You can first talk to your GP or continence nurse about your needs. Then, download the CAPS application form from the Services Australia website. And if you have questions, call the National Continence Helpline on 1800 330 066 for free, confidential advice.

Managing incontinence takes courage, and reaching out for help is a sign of strength. You deserve comfort, dignity, and products that work for your life.

So, when you are ready to explore your options, browse our full range of continence products at Ontex Healthcare. We are here to help you find the right fit.