If you are eligible, the EnableNSW scheme can provide up to $1,600 toward the cost of a wig. Claiming it is more straightforward than it sounds — and when you work with a registered EnableNSW supplier like Milk & Honey Wigs, we handle the supplier side of the paperwork with you, from your first consultation to the documentation your application needs.
This guide walks you through everything: what EnableNSW is, who qualifies, how much is available, and the exact steps to make a claim. It is written from direct experience helping NSW women access this entitlement.
What is EnableNSW?
EnableNSW is a NSW Health program that provides subsidised equipment and aids to people with disability or long-term health conditions. Its purpose is to support independence and quality of life. Wigs are included in the scheme as an aid for people who have lost hair due to a medical condition — recognising that hair loss carries a significant impact on confidence, wellbeing, and everyday life.
EnableNSW is separate from the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme), though some people may be eligible for both. It operates specifically within New South Wales and is administered through NSW Health.
Who is eligible for the EnableNSW wig allocation?
To be eligible for the EnableNSW wig allocation, you generally need to:
- Be a resident of New South Wales
- Have a permanent or long-term medical condition that has caused significant scalp hair loss
- Have a referral or supporting letter from your treating GP or medical specialist
- Purchase your wig from a supplier registered with EnableNSW
Conditions that commonly qualify include:
- Alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, or alopecia universalis
- Chemotherapy-related hair loss (where hair loss is expected to be prolonged)
- Radiation therapy-related hair loss
- Other medical causes of significant scalp hair loss
Eligibility is assessed individually. If you are unsure whether your condition qualifies, your GP is the right first call — they can advise on your eligibility and provide the supporting letter your application will need. You can also contact EnableNSW directly before beginning the process.
EnableNSW funding for wigs is generally intended for conditions where hair loss is significant and ongoing. For women with early-stage thinning that may not meet the threshold, our hair toppers guide and wigs for thinning hair guide may be more relevant starting points. A consultation with us can help you identify what is most appropriate.
How much is the EnableNSW wig allocation?
The current EnableNSW wig allocation is up to $1,600. This is a contribution toward the purchase of a wig from a registered EnableNSW supplier — it is not a full reimbursement in all cases, depending on the wig selected.
The allocation is set by the NSW Government and is subject to periodic review. Always confirm the current amount directly with EnableNSW when you begin your application. The allocation applies to the purchase of one wig from a registered supplier; it typically cannot be split across multiple items in a single claim period.
The step-by-step claim process
Step 1 — Book a consultation with us
Your first step is a consultation with a registered EnableNSW wig supplier. Milk & Honey Wigs (Registration 895770) offers private, no-pressure consultations at our Sutherland Shire showroom and by video for women who cannot attend in person. This is where you discuss your needs and preferences, explore options, and we prepare the supplier quote your application will require.
Step 2 — Get a supporting letter from your GP or specialist
Contact your treating GP or specialist and ask for a letter confirming your diagnosis and the medical basis for needing a wig. Your GP may already be familiar with this process, particularly if they work with cancer or alopecia patients. The letter should include your diagnosis and a statement that a wig is medically appropriate for your situation. Some GPs will ask for the EnableNSW application form first so they can complete the relevant section — it is worth asking which they prefer.
Step 3 — Contact EnableNSW to confirm eligibility and request an application form
Contact EnableNSW through NSW Health to confirm your eligibility and request an application. It is worth speaking with someone directly rather than relying solely on the website — staff can confirm exactly what documentation is required for your specific condition and circumstances.
Step 4 — We provide your supplier documentation
Once you have selected a wig at your consultation, Milk & Honey Wigs provides a formal supplier quote and all required supplier documentation. This confirms that we are a registered EnableNSW supplier, that the wig meets the scheme's requirements, and the full cost of the selected item. We make this step as quick and straightforward as possible — we know you have enough to manage.
Step 5 — Submit your completed application
Submit your EnableNSW application with your GP letter, our supplier quote, and any other documentation requested. EnableNSW will assess your application and confirm the approved funding amount in writing.
Step 6 — Receive your wig
Once your application is approved, EnableNSW will confirm the payment arrangement with Milk & Honey Wigs directly. We then proceed with your wig order. For human hair wigs, some styles have a production lead time — we will keep you informed of timing throughout and support you during the wait.
Why work with a registered EnableNSW supplier?
You must purchase your wig from a supplier registered with EnableNSW for the funding to apply. Purchasing from an unregistered retailer — including most online wig stores — means paying the full cost out of pocket with no avenue for reimbursement through the scheme.
Milk & Honey Wigs is a registered EnableNSW supplier (Registration 895770). Our registration means:
- The wigs we supply are accepted under the scheme
- We provide the correct supplier documentation in the format EnableNSW requires
- You deal with one trusted supplier throughout — from your first consultation to your final fitting
What we handle on your behalf
We know that navigating a government scheme when you are also managing a health condition can feel like the last thing you need. Our commitment is to carry the supplier side of this process so you do not have to.
When you work with us on an EnableNSW claim, we:
- Provide a formal supplier quote in the format required by EnableNSW
- Complete all required supplier sections of the application documentation
- Respond promptly to any EnableNSW queries about our registration, products, or pricing
- Guide you through the process from your first consultation to your final fitting and aftercare
Your role is to complete the EnableNSW application form and provide your GP letter. We handle everything on the supplier side.
Can I combine EnableNSW with private health insurance?
In some cases, yes. Some private health insurance extras policies include a wig benefit under aids and appliances, external prostheses, or a similar category. If the wig you choose costs more than the EnableNSW allocation, a private health insurance benefit — where your policy includes one — may reduce your out-of-pocket contribution further.
Contact your insurer and ask specifically about wig benefits before assuming they apply. Our guide to the Australian medical wig rebate has more detail on what private health funds typically cover and what to ask.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the EnableNSW wig subsidy?
The current allocation is up to $1,600. Always confirm the current amount directly with EnableNSW when you begin your application, as allocations are set by the NSW Government and may be updated.
What conditions are covered?
Conditions including alopecia areata, alopecia totalis, alopecia universalis, chemotherapy-related hair loss, radiation-related hair loss, and other medical causes of significant scalp hair loss. Your GP confirms your diagnosis as part of the application.
Do I need a GP letter?
Yes. A letter or referral from your treating GP or specialist confirming your diagnosis and the medical need for a wig is a standard part of the EnableNSW application.
How long does the application take?
Processing times vary. Start the process as early as possible — particularly before chemotherapy begins. Contact EnableNSW directly for current timeframes. We provide our supplier documentation promptly so delays on our side are not a factor.
Can I use the EnableNSW subsidy at Milk & Honey Wigs?
Yes. We are a registered EnableNSW supplier (Registration 895770) and assist clients through the full process. Book a free consultation to get started.
Book a free private consultation
The process starts with a conversation. Book a free, private consultation at our Sutherland Shire showroom or by video, and we will walk through the EnableNSW process with you, find the right wig for your situation, and take care of the paperwork together.
Or return to our Complete Australian Medical Guide to Hair Loss and Wigs to read more about your options first.
Milk & Honey Wigs | Sutherland Shire, Sydney | Est. 2017 | NSW Health Recognised Supplier | EnableNSW Registered Supplier: Registration 895770