NDIS Assistive Technology: Everything you Need to Know!
NDIS Assistive Technology: Everything You Need to Know
Assistive technology refers to tools and devices designed to support individuals with disabilities in becoming more independent and accomplishing tasks they might otherwise find challenging due to their disability.
These technologies can range from simple items, like a shower stool for safety, to more sophisticated equipment, such as powered wheelchairs or transfer aids.
Using your NDIS funds to purchase assistive technology has become more streamlined in recent years, as the NDIS acknowledges the significant role technology plays in enhancing independence for people with a disability.
That said, it’s important to adhere to the NDIS guidelines and meet the required criteria when accessing assistive technology through your plan.
NDIS Assistive Technology Overview
Approximately 80% of NDIS participants have funding allocated for assistive technology in their plans.
According to the NDIS, assistive technology refers to "equipment, technology, and devices that enable you to perform tasks you’re unable to do because of your disability."
The primary goal of assistive technology is to support individuals in participating in activities at home, school, work, and within the community. It also plays a vital role in promoting overall wellbeing.
NDIS-funded assistive technology can include a wide variety of items, such as equipment for recreation, household tasks, personal care, mobility, hearing, vision, and more.
What Assistive Technology is Covered by the NDIS?
The NDIS provides funding for assistive technology (AT) that helps individuals with disabilities perform tasks they are unable to do independently or makes everyday activities safer and more manageable.
COVERED Assistive Technology by the NDIS:
- Assistive products for food and drink preparation
- Devices for house cleaning, gardening, or laundry
- Modifications or upgrades to standard household items to improve accessibility
- Equipment for sports or recreational activities
- Self-care products, including adaptive clothing, incontinence aids, and tools for washing and drying the body
- Visual and tactile alert systems
NOT COVERED Assistance Technology by the NDIS:
- Equipment used for treatment or rehabilitation
- Tablets, smartphones, and mobile phones
- Internet connection or data plans
- Standard computers, gaming consoles, and related accessories
- Subscriptions for streaming services
- Accessibility features for shared spaces like ramps at schools or workplaces
- Mainstream technology that does not address a functional limitation (e.g., a car, though car modifications may be covered)
The NDIS will not fund assistive technology that falls under the responsibility of other services or items considered everyday technology that everyone is expected to purchase.
The NDIS may provide funding for Assistive Technology not included on the official NDIS supports List.
These are referred to as replacement supports.
Replacement supports allow you to access items that aren’t part of the standard NDIS supports. However, they are not considered extra supports; they must replace some of the funded supports already included in your plan. It's essential to note that if your plan specifies particular AT items for purchase, those items must be acquired before using any unallocated AT funding for other purposes.
Examples of replacement supports include:
- Standard household appliances, such as a washing machine or dishwasher
- Smartwatches
- Tablet devices
- Smartphones
- Accessibility or communication apps
For instance, you might request a smartwatch, tablet, or smartphone as a replacement support if it’s necessary for communication or accessibility purposes and helps reduce the number of support worker hours required in your plan.
You must receive written approval from the NDIS before purchasing replacement supports, and any invoices or receipts must be dated after approval is granted. If you purchase a replacement support without prior approval, your claim may be rejected.
For further details on replacement supports and the application process, visit the NDIS
website.
Is assistive technology 'Reasonable and Necessary' for you?
As with any item or service funded through your NDIS Plan, you need to demonstrate that any assistive technology (AT) you purchase through the NDIS is both reasonable and necessary for your individual needs.
Here are some questions to consider:
- Is the item included in the NDIS list of supports?
- How does the technology relate to your disability? For instance, does it enable you to do something you wouldn’t be able to do otherwise?
- Is the AT suitable for your specific needs? Is it safe to use? Does it support you in reaching your goals or meeting your daily requirements?
- Does the item represent good value for money when compared to other alternatives that could achieve a similar outcome?
For example, are there more cost-effective options? Will it require ongoing repairs or maintenance?
The Three Levels of Assistive Technology Under the NDIS
The NDIS pricing structure for assistive technology (AT) is designed to make it simple to access the support you need, as long as it meets NDIS guidelines. Before purchasing any AT, it is recommended that you seek advice from a qualified AT assessor or experienced professional to ensure you select the most suitable item.
Low-Cost Assistive Technology (up to $1,500 per item):
Items costing up to $1,500 can be purchased flexibly using your Core supports budget. No quotes are required for these items. Low-cost AT is typically easy to find in retail stores or online and often requires minimal or no setup.
Mid-Cost Assistive Technology ($1,500 to $15,000 per item):
Mid-cost AT is funded through the Capital supports budget in your NDIS Plan. To purchase these items, written evidence from a qualified AT advisor is required to confirm the item is safe and appropriate for your needs. If the necessary documentation is provided and the item is considered low risk, funding for AT up to $15,000 will be automatically approved by the NDIS, without the need for a quote.
High-Cost Assistive Technology (over $15,000 per item):
For AT exceeding $15,000, an assessment and written recommendation from a professional AT advisor (or AT assessor) are required. You must also provide a quote for the proposed AT. In some cases, you may need to trial the item and provide evidence of its effectiveness for your specific needs.
High-cost AT is generally more complex and may require significant setup. These items are listed as ‘stated supports’ under the Capital supports budget in your NDIS Plan, meaning you can only purchase the specific item and model approved in your plan.
Three levels of AT showing in a table
Pro Tip: The NDIS suggests seeking guidance from an AT advisor to ensure you select assistive technology that meets your needs. An AT advisor could be an allied health professional, continence nurse, rehabilitation engineer, or another qualified specialist.
"Do you know the role of a rehabilitation engineer?"
Rehabilitation engineers design and build devices and systems to meet a wide range of needs that can assist individuals with mobility, communication, hearing, vision and cognition. These tools help people with day-to-day activities related to employment, independent living and education.
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Pro Tip: Before buying high-risk AT, you’ll need written advice from an AT advisor or assessor and a quote approved by the NDIS.
Assistive Technology and Risk
When purchasing assistive technology (AT) with your NDIS funds, it’s essential to consider not just the cost but also the associated risks.
The NDIS classifies certain items as higher risk, meaning they have a greater potential to cause harm when used in everyday situations. These items require a more detailed approval process.
Low-Risk Assistive Technology
Low-risk AT refers to items that are generally safe to use, widely available, and easy to set up independently. These are often, though not always, more affordable and include products like modified utensils for eating.
High-Risk Assistive Technology
High-risk AT is typically more sophisticated and may pose potential risks if not used correctly. These items often require professional advice, installation, or training for safe use.
Examples include transfer aids such as bedsticks, motor vehicle modifications, pressure care equipment, and prosthetics.
Independent Advice and AT Assessments
If your NDIS plan includes AT, ensure you have at least $500 in your Capacity Building budget to get advice from an independent advisor about your AT needs.
Keep a copy of this advice, as the NDIS may request it later. Uploading it to your NDIS myplace portal, or send it to your Plan Manager if you have one, ensures it’s accessible when needed.
To allow Disability Pathway Solutions to act on your behalf, we each need to sign an NDIS consent form to have your permission.
