As we move through 2025, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is entering a period of major reform. These changes are designed to improve how people with disabilities across Australia receive funding, services, and support—especially when it comes to accessing assistive technology. Whether you are a participant, caregiver, or assistive technology provider, understanding the NDIS 2025 updates is important for planning and accessing the right support.
Why Is the NDIS Changing in 2025?
The NDIS Review conducted in 2023 revealed several challenges, including slow processes, uneven decisions, and issues in funding consistency. To respond to these concerns, the government is implementing a new framework in 2025. The key goals of the updated system are: making the scheme financially sustainable, improving experiences for participants and providers, creating more consistent decisions and clearer guidelines, and expanding and improving access to assistive technology. These changes aim to ensure that Australians with disabilities receive support that is fair, timely, and better matched to their needs.
Key Changes in NDIS 2025 for Assistive Technology
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Centralised Approval System for Assistive Technology
A new national approval system is being introduced to manage requests for assistive technology (AT). This central system will streamline approvals, reduce waiting times, and ensure consistency.
What this means for you: Participants and providers will experience faster approvals and simplified application processes for AT funding.
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Updated Assistive Technology Categories
In 2025, all assistive technology products will fall under five core categories: everyday supports (e.g. shower chairs, walking aids), mobility and personal care devices, complex communication and cognitive aids, home modifications and environmental control units, smart and digital assistive technology. This structure helps match the right level of support to each participant’s needs, making funding decisions easier and more accurate.
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Dedicated Funding for Maintenance and Repairs
NDIS 2025 includes a new policy for maintenance and urgent repairs of assistive technology. Funding will now be separate from core budgets and clearly allocated.
What this means for you: You no longer have to use your core support budget to fix essential equipment. This improves safety and ensures your technology lasts longer.
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Certification for Mid and High-Cost Providers
From mid-2025, only NDIS-certified providers will be eligible to supply mid to high-cost assistive technology. This requirement is part of the plan to improve quality and safety in service delivery.
What this means for you: Participants will receive better-supported products from trusted providers. Providers must now meet national safety and training standards.
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Expanded Eligibility and Clearer Guidelines
The 2025 changes broaden the definition of “reasonable and necessary” supports, which will give more participants access to assistive technology they may have been denied in the past.
What this means for you: You may now be eligible for funding of assistive devices such as smart beds, communication tools, and digital solutions that support daily living and independence.
How These Changes Impact Assistive Tech Users
Participants who use assistive technology will benefit in several ways under the new rules: quicker decisions on AT applications, transparent funding guidelines, access to updated and smart assistive devices, better support for equipment maintenance, and improved service quality from certified providers. These changes aim to simplify the experience and provide better outcomes for people who rely on assistive technology every day.
What Assistive Technology Providers Need to Know
If you are a provider of assistive technology, the NDIS 2025 updates bring several important changes. Providers must: obtain NDIS certification for mid and high-cost product supply, align products with the five updated AT categories, train staff on the updated funding, eligibility, and support process, and deliver consistent, high-quality support to participants. At AssistiveTechHub, we are working with partners and suppliers across Australia to ensure our services meet the new national standards.
Preparing for the NDIS 2025 Transition
For Participants:
Review your current NDIS plan with your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or support coordinator, check your assistive technology items and identify any repair or upgrade needs, begin discussions with certified providers to gather quotes and product recommendations, and ask your provider about support options available under the new maintenance funding.
For Providers:
Ensure your registration meets the updated NDIS provider guidelines, reorganise product categories based on the 2025 framework, train your staff in line with policy updates, and partner with support coordinators to improve access and product matching. Being prepared will help ensure a smooth transition and better outcomes under the reformed NDIS system.
Explore AssistiveTechHub’s Trusted Categories
With the NDIS moving to a more organised, category-based structure for assistive technology, it’s important to choose the right products that align with your support needs. At AssistiveTechHub, we’ve made it easy to browse and shop by category, ensuring a smooth selection process under the new 2025 guidelines.
- Aged & Home Care Beds: Designed to enhance comfort and safety for home-based care.
- Daily Living Aids: Tools to support everyday independence—from dressing to mealtime.
- Mobility Scooters: Regain freedom outdoors with powerful, easy-to-navigate scooters.
- Patient Lifters: Essential lifting devices that reduce strain for carers and improve safety.
- Power Wheelchairs: High-performance wheelchairs for all-day comfort and mobility.
- Recliners: NDIS-funded recliners designed for support and relaxation.
- Shower Chairs: Stable and secure bathing assistance for all levels of need.
- Toilet Rails: Reliable support to maintain bathroom independence and safety.
- Walkers: Choose from standard, rollator, or upright models tailored to user needs.
- Wheelchair Commode: Multipurpose solutions for hygiene and mobility in one.
Conclusion
The NDIS 2025 reforms mark a significant shift in how assistive technology is delivered, funded, and maintained. These changes are designed to improve the experience for participants, raise service standards, and create a more consistent and reliable system. Whether you are accessing or delivering assistive technology, understanding these updates will help you navigate the new framework with confidence. At AssistiveTechHub.com.au, we are ready to support you with the latest assistive products, professional guidance, and ongoing service that meets NDIS standards. Visit our website to explore NDIS-approved assistive technology products and get help tailored to the new 2025 framework.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is assistive technology in the NDIS?
Assistive technology refers to tools and equipment that help individuals with disabilities to do tasks more safely or independently. Common items include wheelchairs, home aids, and communication devices.
What’s new in NDIS assistive technology in 2025?
Key changes include a central approval system, updated AT product categories, specific funding for repairs, stricter provider accreditation, and expanded eligibility for advanced devices.
Who qualifies for assistive technology under the 2025 rules?
Any NDIS participant with a need for assistive technology that is considered reasonable and necessary may be eligible. The 2025 update clarifies this process.
Can I choose my own provider for assistive technology?
Yes, but starting mid-2025, only certified providers can deliver mid and high-cost AT items under the NDIS.
How does AssistiveTechHub help with these changes?
AssistiveTechHub supports participants and providers by offering NDIS-compliant products, expert advice, product setup, and ongoing support that aligns with the new 2025 rules. For more information or to get started, visit AssistiveTechHub.com.au.
