What Assistive Technology Is Covered by the NDIS?

What Assistive Technology Is Covered by the NDIS?

Assistive technology (AT) can make a significant difference in the lives of NDIS participants by helping people move more freely, communicate more effectively and carry out everyday tasks with greater confidence and independence.

But what exactly is assistive technology under the NDIS? And how do you know if something is covered by your plan?

This guide is here to help. While every participant’s funding is different, we’ve outlined some of the most common assistive technologies, how they’re funded and where you can find products designed for NDIS participants.

What Is Assistive Technology Under the NDIS?

The NDIS defines assistive technology as any device or system that allows a person to do something they cannot do because of their disability, or that makes doing something easier or safer.

This includes a wide range of supports, from simple tools used in daily life to complex technologies tailored to specific needs. Assistive technology can support:

• Mobility (e.g. walking frames, wheelchairs)
• Communication (e.g. speech-generating devices)
• Personal care and hygiene (e.g. shower chairs, toilet frames)
• Household safety (e.g. grab bars, non-slip mats)
• Learning and sensory regulation (e.g. sensory toys, weighted blankets)

How Does the NDIS Fund Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology funding typically falls under two categories in your NDIS plan:

• Core Supports – for low-cost, low-risk items used regularly in daily life (usually under $1500)
• Capital Supports – for higher-cost, more specialised equipment that may require an assessment (usually over $1500)

The NDIS also separates AT into four levels, ranging from simple off-the-shelf products to custom-built solutions. Most of the everyday items sold through Plan Access fall under Level 1 or Level 2, meaning they are lower risk and don’t require complex setup or ongoing training.

Important: Whether a product is funded depends on your individual goals and what’s considered reasonable and necessary. Always refer to your plan or speak to your support coordinator for clarity.*

Examples of Assistive Technology Items Funded by the NDIS

Below are common categories of assistive tech that may be funded under the NDIS:

• Daily living aids – e.g. dressing sticks, reachers, jar openers
• Mobility aids – e.g. walking frames, foldable rollators, canes
• Communication devices – e.g. visual communication boards, voice-output devices
• Sensory supports – e.g. fidget tools, chewable jewellery, weighted lap pads
• Home modifications – e.g. suction grab bars, non-slip floor mats
• Personal care equipment – e.g. shower chairs, raised toilet seats

Funding is based on individual assessments and the reasonable and necessary criteria. Not all products are automatically covered.

How to Access Assistive Technology Through Your NDIS Plan

Not sure how to get started? Here’s a simple four-step process:

Step 1: Talk to your planner or support coordinator They’ll help you identify what you need and how it aligns with your goals.

Step 2: Review your plan Look at your Core or Capital Supports budgets and check whether assistive technology is included.

Step 3: Get assessments if required Some items, especially more specialised or higher-cost ones, may require an OT or professional assessment.

Step 4: Purchase based on your management type

• Self-managed – Buy directly and claim the cost
• Plan-managed – Your provider invoices your plan manager
• Agency-managed – You must shop through a registered NDIS provider

Plan Access supports agency-managed participants with direct NDIS checkout available on eligible items.

Where to Find NDIS-Approved Assistive Technology Products

Plan Access is designed to make shopping for assistive technology simpler. We offer:

• A curated range of daily living, sensory and mobility aids
• Support for agency-managed plans with compliant checkout
• Fast delivery Australia-wide
• Products from trusted vendors and inclusive suppliers

Explore our Assistive Technology category, or browse related products in Daily Living Aids, Mobility or Sensory Items.

FAQs About NDIS Assistive Technology

Can I buy assistive technology myself with NDIS funds? Yes, if you are self-managed, or in some cases, plan-managed. For agency-managed, you must purchase through a registered provider.*

What counts as low-cost assistive technology? Generally, items under $1,500 that are low risk, easy to set up and don’t require professional training or customisation.

Do I need an assessment to access AT? For basic items, usually not. For complex or high-cost supports, an OT or allied health professional assessment is often required.

Conclusion

Assistive technology can open up new possibilities for NDIS participants, from greater independence to improved safety and comfort. While funding varies from person to person, knowing what’s possible is the first step.

Browse Assistive Technology on Plan Access to explore practical, participant-friendly solutions designed to support your goals.

* The listing of an item as NDIS eligible does not ensure its funding under your individual plan. Should uncertainty arise regarding the appropriateness of purchasing an item with your plan funds, consultation with your plan coordinator or the NDIS is advised. As the e-commerce site owner, Care Access (Plan Access), or the vendor listing the item as a provider, we offer no assurance that the product aligns with a specific NDIS item code or is appropriate for purchase through your NDIS plan.