Assistive technology, or AT, includes equipment and devices that help you do things you may not be able to do because of your disability. It can support greater independence and participation at home, school, work and in the community.
AT can include everyday supports such as a shower stool, as well as more specialised items like transfer aids or powered wheelchairs. As the range of available technology grows, it can help to understand what the NDIS may fund and what steps you may need to take before making a purchase.
What assistive technology is covered by the NDIS?
The NDIS may fund AT that meets the reasonable and necessary criteria and is related to your disability support needs.
This can include:
- Devices for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
- Assistive products for preparing food and drinks
- Assistive products for house cleaning, gardening or laundry
- Modifications to standard household items to make them more accessible
- Assistive products used for sport or recreation
- Products for self-care, adaptive clothing, continence support and washing and drying
- Visual and tactile alerting systems.
The NDIS does not usually fund AT that should be paid for by other services, or everyday technology that people generally buy themselves. This includes:
- Items used for treatment or rehabilitation
- Tablets and mobile phones, including smartphones
- Internet connection and data
- Standard computers and accessories, consoles and games
- Subscriptions for streaming services
- Changes to shared built environments, such as ramps at school or work
- Mainstream technology that does not address a functional limitation. For example, a car is not assistive technology, but modifications to a car may be.
The 3 levels of assistive technology under the NDIS.
The NDIS groups AT by cost and risk, which helps determine what evidence or advice may be needed.
Low-cost assistive technology (up to $1,500 per item).
Low-cost AT are usually simple to use, widely available and easy to set up. They are generally purchased through your Core budget.
You do not need a quote or specific approval from the NDIS before purchasing these items.
Examples of low-cost AT are:
- Modified cutlery
- Continence aids
- Non-slip bath mats.
Because these items are purchased through your Core budget, the funding is flexible and can be used for different items as needed (with some exceptions).
Mid-cost assistive technology ($1,500 to $15,000 per item).
Mid-cost assistive technology can be purchased from Capital supports in your NDIS Plan. You don’t need to provide the NDIS with a quote for AT items under $15,000, but they still need some evidence (including a cost estimate) to make sure you get the right AT. The NDIA will then typically specify the funded items in your plan.
Examples of mid-cost AT are:
- Standing hoists
- Wheeled shower commodes
- Ankle-foot orthotics
- Pressure care mattresses.
- Alternative communication devices.
Higher cost assistive technology (over $15,000).
If the AT you need costs more than $15,000, the NDIS requires a full assessment from a professional AT advisor along with a detailed quote which generally needs to be submitted in the planning phase or prior to the start of your plan.
These items are usually more complex and may require specialised setup, training or trialling to ensure they are right for you.
High-cost AT items are ‘stated supports’ in your plan. This means only the specific item and model approved by the NDIS can be purchased with that funding.
Examples of high-cost AT include:
- A wheelchair custom-made for you
- Some complex communication devices
- Prosthetics
- Ventilators.
Assistive technology and risk.
The NDIS has two risk categories for assistive technology.
Low-risk assistive technology.
Low-risk AT includes items that are unlikely to cause harm, are easy to buy and can usually be set up without support. They are usually, but not always, at the lower end of the price range, such as modified eating aids.
Higher risk assistive technology.
Higher risk AT includes items that are more complex or need professional advice, set-up or training to use safely. It can also include products linked to restrictive practices or those known to carry a higher risk of harm.
Before you buy higher risk AT, the NDIA requires you to get advice from a qualified AT adviser, usually an allied health professional.
Some higher risk AT may still be low-cost, so price is not always a guide to risk.
Getting independent advice and AT assessments.
If your NDIS Plan includes AT funding, you will usually also have at least $500 in your Capacity Building budget to get independent advice about your AT needs.
Keep a copy of this advice, as the NDIA may ask for it later. It is also a good idea to upload it to your myplace portal so it is attached to your NDIS record. You can also upload it to the Leap in! app so it is easy to find when you need it.
We’re here to help!
Assistive technology can make a real difference to your independence and daily life. If you need support, the Leap in! Crew is here to help. Book a free, one-on-one Understand Your Plan session with one of our experienced plan managers to help you navigate your plan with confidence.
Call us on 1300 05 78 78, email [email protected] or chat with us online at www.leapin.com.au.
Originally published 24 March 2022, updated 21 February 2023, 16 January 2025 and 7 April 2026.
