Assistive Technology and the NDIS: A Mobile OT’s Guide to Access and Funding

A few years ago, I was working with a young man named Liam who had cerebral palsy. As a physiotherapist, my focus was on his mobility and confidence — helping him transfer safely, move more freely, and avoid fatigue. But every week, I noticed something: it wasn’t just the therapy sessions that made the difference — it was his wheelchair, the modified cutlery in the kitchen, even the voice-activated lighting in his bedroom.

That’s assistive technology in action. And while I wasn’t the one prescribing those supports — our occupational therapist (OT) was — I saw firsthand how the right equipment transformed his independence.

At Fleet Healthcare, we believe assistive technology (AT) isn’t about fancy gadgets — it’s about giving people practical tools to live with more control, confidence, and dignity. For NDIS participants, understanding how to access that support — and when to bring in an OT — can make all the difference.

In this guide, I’ll break down what AT is under the NDIS, how funding works, and how our team at Fleet Healthcare helps get the right supports in place.

Key Takeaways

• Assistive technology (AT) under the NDIS includes any device that helps participants do things more independently or safely.
• AT is grouped into low-cost and high-cost categories — each with different funding and approval rules.
• An OT assessment is often required, especially for high-cost or customised items.
• AT falls under two NDIS categories: Consumables and Capital Supports. Find more information on this via the NDSP website.
• Fleet Healthcare’s mobile OTs can assess, prescribe, and submit quotes for NDIS participants across Sydney.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Assistive Technology Under the NDIS?
2. Low-Cost vs High-Cost Assistive Technology
3. When Is an OT Assessment Required?
4. How to Access Assistive Technology Through Your NDIS Plan
5. NDIS Funding Categories for AT
6. Fleet Healthcare’s Approach to AT Assessments
7. FAQs
8. Conclusion
9. Author Bio

Snapshot: Assistive Technology at a Glance

• AT = Equipment or devices that support independence and safety
• <$1,500 = Usually low-cost, may not require formal quotes according to the NDIS
• OT assessments are essential for complex or customised items
• Funded under Consumables or Capital Supports in your NDIS plan. Find more information on this via the care side
• Quotes and reports may be required for approval (NDIS guide)

What Is Assistive Technology Under the NDIS?

Assistive technology refers to any tool or device that helps someone do something they otherwise couldn’t — or do it more safely, efficiently, or independently.

Under the NDIS, AT covers a wide range of supports, such as:

• Mobility aids (e.g. wheelchairs, walkers, transfer boards)
• Communication devices (e.g. iPads with speech apps)
• Sensory tools (e.g. weighted blankets, noise-cancelling headphones)
• Home modifications (e.g. grab rails, smart lighting)
• Personal care tools (e.g. shower chairs, adaptive cutlery)

The key is that it must be “reasonable and necessary” for the participant’s disability and goals.

Important: Just because something is helpful doesn’t mean it’s fundable. It must be linked to a functional need outlined in the participant’s plan.

See the full definition from the NDIS here: Assistive Technology Explained

Low-Cost vs High-Cost Assistive Technology

Understanding the difference between low and high-cost AT is crucial — it affects how equipment is purchased and whether an OT assessment is required.

Low-cost AT (<$1,500): Generally funded under Consumables; simple and quick to purchase.

 

Mid-cost AT ($1,500–$15,000): Funded as Capital – Assistive Technology. You don’t need quotes, but written evidence (e.g., an OT report) is needed.

 

High-cost AT (>$15,000): Requires comprehensive approval, including OT assessment, formal quotes, and trial documentation.

Fleet Healthcare’s OTs regularly complete these assessments, including trials and provider quotes, and submit the required documentation through the NDIS AT process.

When Is an OT Assessment Required?

An OT (or other allied health professional) is required when:

• The assistive tech is over $1,500
• The participant needs help selecting the most suitable item
• Equipment needs to be customised or trialled
• The NDIS requires a supporting letter and quote

Here’s what a typical OT AT assessment includes:

• A clinical assessment of the participant’s functional needs
• A trial of potential equipment (e.g., comparing walkers or seating options)
• A prescription of the most appropriate item
• A written justification and supplier quote for NDIS submission

Our OTs at Fleet Healthcare are mobile — meaning we can assess participants in their own homes, schools, or community settings, which gives us a clearer picture of their environment and daily routines.

How to Access Assistive Technology Through Your NDIS Plan

Here’s a simple breakdown of how NDIS participants can access AT:

1. Check Your Plan
   Look under your Consumables or Capital Supports – Assistive Technology categories to see if you have AT funding.
2. Speak to Your Support Coordinator
   If you’re unsure what’s covered or what evidence is needed, your coordinator can help clarify next steps.
3. Engage an OT (like us!)
   Contact a registered provider like Fleet Healthcare to conduct an AT assessment and trial equipment.
4. Submit Documentation
   We’ll prepare and submit the assessment report, quote(s), and justification to the NDIS (or plan manager).
5. Order & Implement
   Once approved, the equipment can be ordered. We often help with delivery coordination and setup instructions.

NDIS Funding Categories for AT

There are two main categories that cover AT under the NDIS:

1. Consumables

Used for low-cost AT under $1,500 (Level 1 and 2 items).
Example: compression garments, continence products (pads and catheters), wound care supplies (dressings and bandages), personal care items (skincare products and gloves). 

Often plan-managed or self-managed participants can purchase these items without needing prior approval.

 2. Capital Supports – Assistive Technology

This is where mid and high-cost AT is funded.
Example: mobility scooters, powerchairs, hoists, custom seating.

Capital Supports almost always require quotes, assessments, and NDIA approval. You’ll also see AT broken into “Levels” in the NDIS operational guidelines:

• Level 1: Simple, off-the-shelf AT (e.g., kitchen aids)
• Level 2: Standard equipment (e.g., walkers, hearing aids)
• Level 3: AT requiring minor adjustment (e.g., bathroom mods)
• Level 4: Complex or custom AT (e.g., power wheelchairs)

See the full breakdown: NDIS Operational Guidelines on AT

Fleet Healthcare’s Approach to AT Assessments

Our role goes beyond equipment. We provide:

• In-home functional assessments
• Equipment trials with trusted suppliers
• End-to-end support with AT prescriptions and quotes
• Follow-up training and usage reviews
• Coordination with plan managers and support coordinators

We also work flexibly with participants who are self-managed, plan-managed, or NDIA-managed — and we tailor every recommendation to the individual’s goals, environment, and support needs.

Tip for Support Coordinators: If a participant is unsure whether their device can be funded, refer them to us. We’ll do a brief pre-screen and determine whether a full assessment is appropriate.

Explore our Occupational Therapy Services or Contact Us to book an assessment.

FAQs

What is assistive technology under the NDIS?

AT includes devices or equipment that help a participant complete tasks they otherwise couldn’t — from shower chairs to communication tools.

Do I need an OT assessment for assistive technology?

Yes — according to the NDIS Assistive Technology Operational Guideline (20 December 2023), participants generally need an OT or other qualified assessor’s input for assistive technology over $1,500 or where customisation or setup support is required. The OT provides written justification, helps coordinate equipment trials, and assists with quotes to ensure the item is reasonable and necessary.

What funding category covers assistive technology?

AT is funded under either Consumables (for low-cost items) or Capital Supports – Assistive Technology for more expensive or complex supports.

Can I buy AT items myself if I’m self-managed?

Yes — if the item is under $1,500 and clearly linked to your disability support needs, you may be able to purchase directly from your budget.

How long does AT approval take?

Timeframes vary. Low-cost AT may be purchased immediately (if plan-managed/self-managed), while complex AT requiring NDIA approval can take 2–8 weeks.

Conclusion

Assistive technology isn’t about bells and whistles — it’s about giving people the tools to live life on their own terms. I’ve seen it time and again: the right device, prescribed with care, can be the difference between struggle and confidence.

At Fleet Healthcare, we work closely with participants, families, and support coordinators to make sure no one falls through the cracks — and that every piece of AT is the right fit, both functionally and personally.

If you or someone you support needs an AT assessment, we’re here to help. Let’s make the process easier — and the outcome stronger.

Get in touch with us here to book your mobile AT assessment today.

Author Bio

Alexander Hunt is the Founder and Managing Director of Fleet Healthcare. As a practising physiotherapist, he brings over a decade of experience across NDIS, aged care, and mobile allied health. Alex is passionate about delivering care that meets people where they are — and helps them thrive in their everyday environment.

 

Professional Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice.

While we aim to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, professional standards, funding arrangements, eligibility criteria, and regulatory frameworks may change and may vary between providers and governing bodies.

Any references to funding or service access are general in nature and should be confirmed directly with the relevant provider or authority.

Fleet Healthcare Services Pty Ltd accepts no liability for actions taken based on the information provided in this article.