Assistive technology in the NDIS can be life-changing for people living with a health condition or disability. From mobility aids to daily living aids, accessing the right assistive technology can increase your quality of life, and help you live more independently and comfortably.
Let’s take a deeper look at what assistive technology is, what funding is available and how you can request for it to be included in your NDIS plan.
What is assistive technology in the NDIS?
Assistive technology (also called “AT” or “assistive tech”) refers to any device or equipment that helps a person living with a health condition or disability to perform a task that they would otherwise find difficult or impossible. It can be anything from a simple tool, like a reacher or a magnifying glass, to a more complex device, like a powered wheelchair or a communication aid.
Types of assistive technology
There are many different types of assistive technology equipment available—some of the most common categories of tech include:
- Mobility aids: These include devices like wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches.
- Communication aids: These include devices like speech-generating devices, text-to-speech software, and communication boards.
- Vision aids: These include devices like magnifiers, screen readers, and Braille displays.
- Daily living aids: These include devices like grab bars, shower chairs, and adaptive utensils.
What funding is available for assistive technology?
There are different levels of funding available for assistive technology, based on the type of support you need. The different categories of assistive technology funding include low, mid and high-cost technology.
The NDIA has different processes for funding each of these categories—let’s take a look.
Low-cost assistive technology
Low-cost assistive technology is defined as equipment that costs less than $1,500 and is simple to set up and use. This funding covers up to $1,500 per item, and can be used to purchase items like:
- Shower chair
- Reacher
- Walking stick
- Non-slip bath mats
- Large print labels
- Continence products
Low-cost assistive technology is included in the Core support budget under the consumable’s category.
Mid-cost assistive technology
Mid-cost assistive technology is defined as equipment that costs between $1,500 and $15,000, and may be more difficult to choose and set up on your own. This funding can be used to purchase items like:
- Powered wheelchair
- Alternative communication devices
- Pressure care mattresses
- Standing hoist
- Orthotics
Funding for these mid cost assistive technologies will be included in your Capital support budget, and will specify what products you have received funding for.
High-cost assistive technology
High-cost assistive technology is defined as equipment that costs more than $15,000, is complex, requires specialised knowledge or tools to set up and might be customised. This funding can be used to purchase items like:
- A customised wheelchair
- Ventilators
- Complex communication device
- Many prosthetics
You’ll find this funding in the Capital support budget of your plan—it might specify the type of technology you need to purchase and may require a quote for the NDIS to be able to provide accurate funding.
How can I request funding for assistive technology in my NDIS plan?
To request assistive technology to be included in your NDIS plan, you need to provide the NDIA with evidence that shows them what AT you need and how this piece of equipment will help you achieve your goals and improve your quality of life. This might include a report from an occupational therapist or other healthcare professional.
The NDIA will then assess your request and determine if they will fund the assistive technology.
If you’re requesting an addition to your current plan, the NDIA aims to make a decision within 28 days for low and mid cost requests, and within 50 days for high cost requests. If you are requesting assistive technology funding in your first NDIS plan, it will be considered as part of the usual approval process.
Need a hand organising your assistive technology support?
If you are looking for support organising assistive technology that has been funded in your NDIS plan, here are some places you can go to get some advice and support.
- Self-Managed: If you’re self-managing your NDIS plan, you can engage directly with health professionals and equipment suppliers. Additionally, you can always consult with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) for support and advice. They’ll guide you through selecting the right assistive technology that fits your needs and help connect you with providers.
- Plan-Managed: For those with a plan manager, you can reach out to them to help understand your NDIS funding. They can help clarify what is covered and assist you in how you can use your funding to secure the Assistive Technology you need.
- Support Coordinator: If you have Support Coordination included in your plan you can work with your Support Coordinator to help select your assistive technology. They’ll assist in coordinating your AT needs, from acquisition to training, ensuring you can use your technology safely and to its full potential.
If you need further support managing your NDIS funds and supports, you might like to consider reaching out to MyIntegra. We offer both Plan Management and Support Coordination services to help you make the most of your NDIS plan.
