Assistive Technology and the NDIS: What Can Be Funded and How to Access It

From mobility aids to smart devices, Assistive Technology (AT) plays a vital role in helping people with disability live more independently, safely, and confidently.

If you're an NDIS participant, the good news is that many types of assistive technology can be funded—as long as they meet the NDIS criteria for “reasonable and necessary” supports.



In this article, we break down what Assistive Technology is, what the NDIS will fund, and how to get the right equipment for your goals and needs.

What Is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology (AT) refers to equipment or devices that help you do things you may not be able to do (or may find harder) because of your disability. AT can range from simple tools to high-tech systems.



Common examples include:

• Mobility aids: wheelchairs, walkers, scooters
  
• Communication devices: speech-generating devices, apps
  
• Hearing and vision support: hearing aids, Braille displays
  
• Personal care aids: shower chairs, hoists
  
• Smart home technology: voice-activated lights, smart door openers
  
• Modified equipment: beds, kitchen tools, vehicles

AT may also include related services like setup, training, and repairs.



What AT Can the NDIS Fund?

The NDIS funds AT that is:

1. Related to your disability
   
2. Reasonable and necessary
   
3. Safe and effective
   
4. Value for money



The NDIS may fund:

• The equipment itself (e.g., mobility aids, communication devices, personal alarms)
  
• Delivery and installation
  
• Repairs and maintenance
  
• Training to use the equipment
  
• Trials or assessments (especially for high-cost items)

AT can be included under two main support budgets:

• Capital Supports – Assistive Technology
  
• Core Supports – Consumables or low-cost AT
  
  

The level of funding and process depends on the type, cost, and complexity of the technology.

The Four Levels of Assistive Technology

NDIS classifies AT into four levels based on risk and complexity:

More info: NDIS Assistive Technology Product Risk Table



What’s Not Typically Funded?

The NDIS will not fund:

• General household items (e.g., TVs, gaming consoles, air fryers) unless clearly linked to your disability needs
  
• Items used primarily for recreational or educational purposes, unless disability-specific
  
• Replacement for lost or stolen equipment without a clear justification
  
• Upgrades for convenience rather than functional need
  
• Anything already covered under another system (e.g., Medicare, DVA)



How to Access AT Through the NDIS

Step 1: Talk to Your Support Coordinator or OT

Your support coordinator can help identify the right AT based on your needs, goals, and current plan budget.



Step 2: Get an Assessment (for Level 3 & 4 items)

An Occupational Therapist or relevant professional must:

• Assess your functional needs
  
• Recommend suitable technology
  
• Submit a formal AT assessment report

Step 3: Obtain Quotes

For most Level 2+ items, you'll need one or more quotes from AT suppliers that meet NDIA standards.



Step 4: Submit to the NDIA

Your support coordinator can help you submit all required documents, including:

• AT Assessment Form
  
• Quotes
  
• Consent forms (if needed)



Step 5: Approval and Purchase

Once approved, you can order the equipment and arrange delivery, setup, and training.



Repairs, Replacement and Maintenance

The NDIS may fund ongoing support for AT, including:

• Scheduled servicing
  
• Emergency repairs
  
• Replacement when no longer fit for purpose
  
  

Make sure this is discussed in your plan review and included under your Capital Supports or Core Supports.



Tools & Templates

📘 NDIS Assistive Technology Guidelines



Next Steps: Make AT Work for You

Whether it's a simple gadget or a life-changing piece of technology, Assistive Technology should work for your goals, lifestyle, and independence.

If you're unsure where to start or need help finding, applying for, or trialling assistive tech:

At Hand in Hand Support Coordination in Melbourne, we help participants turn NDIS goals into real-world outcomes, and assistive technology is often a big part of that journey.

We collaborate with OTs, suppliers, and the NDIA to ensure you get the tools that support your independence, safety, and participation in everyday life.