Inclusive Fitness: How NDIS Is Changing the Game

When it comes to making fitness inclusive, few people are leading the charge like Scott Hunt. As the founder and CEO of Fit Your Ability and Fitness Enhancement, Scott has been paving the way for a fitness industry that truly caters to all abilities. Recently, I had the chance to sit down with Scott and talk about his journey, his work with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), and how fitness professionals can get involved.

From $400 to a National Franchise

Scott’s story is one of determination and timing. He started Fitness Enhancement in 1999 with just $400 in his pocket. Fast forward to today, and his companies now span over 4,000 suburbs across Australia. In 2014, Scott franchised his business, making it easier for fitness professionals to join his mission. What sets his work apart is a relentless focus on helping clients who feel traditional gyms can’t cater to their abilities.

“We’ve always helped people with disabilities. But when the NDIS came to Queensland about seven years ago, it was a no-brainer to become registered,” Scott shared. “It’s been about creating a truly inclusive space, not just ticking a box.”

What’s the NDIS, and Why Does It Matter?

For those unfamiliar, the NDIS is a government initiative designed to support Australians with disabilities. It provides funding for services that improve participants’ quality of life—and that’s where Scott’s companies step in. Fit Your Ability is now Australia’s largest NDIS-registered fitness company, with a mission to make fitness accessible to everyone.

Scott explained that while 4.3 million Australians have a disability, only about 800,000 are currently covered under the NDIS. This creates a unique challenge: helping those who need fitness services the most but are least likely to access them. “The NDIS has been a game-changer for us,” Scott said. “It’s not just about the funding; it’s about that stamp of approval that says, ‘Yes, these are people you can trust to work with disabilities.’”

The Road to Becoming NDIS Registered

Working within the NDIS framework isn’t for the faint-hearted. The process to become a registered provider can take up to two years, involves extensive compliance documentation, and requires hiring external auditors.

“It’s not impossible, but it’s a big job,” Scott admitted. “If I’d tried to do this 15 years ago, I wouldn’t have had the business foundation to pull it off.”

For fitness professionals who aren’t ready to take on the compliance workload, Scott’s franchise model offers a streamlined entry point. Franchisees benefit from the groundwork he’s already laid, including access to NDIS registration and ongoing support.

Why Empathy and Education Are Key

Scott’s team isn’t just about ticking compliance boxes; it’s about finding the right people for the job. “We hire for personality,” he said. “You can teach skills, but you can’t teach someone to be empathetic.”

Once hired, trainers undergo internal education to ensure they’re confident working with a wide variety of clients, from those on the autism spectrum to individuals with acquired brain injuries. Scott’s company has even launched Disability Fitness Australia to expand training opportunities and raise awareness about the need for inclusive fitness.

The Day-to-Day of Inclusive Training

When asked what a typical day looks like for one of his trainers, Scott described a mix of adaptability and connection. “It’s much like any other PT session, but with a bigger variety of abilities and needs. Autism is probably the most common disability we work with, but we also see clients with cerebral palsy, vision impairments, and more.”

Scott’s trainers are encouraged to focus on building trust and tailoring sessions to each client’s goals. “These are some of the most motivated people you’ll ever meet,” he said. “They’re not complaining about first-world problems; they’re just grateful for the opportunity to move and be active.”

Breaking Down Barriers

One of the biggest challenges in making fitness inclusive is awareness. “Most people don’t even know these services exist,” Scott said. “We’re often the only fitness company at disability expos, surrounded by 200 exhibitors from other sectors.” But Scott is optimistic. “If we can get the word out, we can change lives. Fitness truly is for everyone.”

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re a fitness professional inspired by Scott’s work and want to make a difference, consider exploring opportunities with Women’s Fitness Education. Our courses cover essential topics like pelvic floor health, pre- and postnatal training, and perimenopause, filling the gaps left by traditional Cert III and IV qualifications.

Together, we can create a fitness industry that’s inclusive, empathetic, and accessible to all.

Listen to our latest Podcast with Scott Hunt "Empowering Fitness For All Abilities" (Spotify & Apple)