Are Wheelchair Commodes Covered by NDIS or My Aged Care?

Maintaining dignity, independence, and safety in the bathroom is essential for both elderly Australians and people living with disabilities. A wheelchair commode can make a huge difference—combining mobility, hygiene support, and comfort in one device.

But a key question for families and carers is: Are wheelchair commodes covered by NDIS or My Aged Care funding? This guide explains what commode wheelchairs are, the funding pathways available, and how to access the right support.

Why Wheelchair Commodes Matter

Mobility + hygiene support

Wheelchair commodes allow safe toileting and showering without the need for multiple transfers. This reduces fall risks, eases the workload for carers, and supports independence.

Independence for elderly and people with disabilities

From NDIS participants to older Australians on Home Care Packages, wheelchair commodes provide an essential link between mobility and hygiene.

What Is a Wheelchair Commode?

A commode wheelchair is a mobile chair designed for toileting and shower use. It can function as a wheelchair, toilet seat, and sometimes a shower chair—making it one of the most versatile mobility aids.

Types of wheelchair commodes

• Reclining wheelchair with commode: Provides pressure relief, comfort, and ease of use for people with complex care needs.
• Foldable wheelchair with commode: Space-saving, portable, and ideal for smaller homes or travel.
• Self-propelled commode wheelchair: Allows users to move independently, combining mobility and hygiene support.

Key functions

• Toilet use (with removable bucket or over-toilet design)
• Shower use (waterproof frames)
• Indoor mobility support

Explore our full wheelchair commode range.

NDIS Coverage for Wheelchair Commodes

NDIS bathroom equipment category

Wheelchair commodes typically fall under the Assistive Technology – Personal Care & Safety category in NDIS funding.

Eligibility and funding approval process

To be funded, the commode must be assessed as “reasonable and necessary” for daily living, usually with an occupational therapist’s recommendation.

Examples of NDIS-funded commode wheelchairs

• NDIS commode wheelchair for toileting and shower use
• Self-propelled commode wheelchair for independence and reduced carer burden
• Reclining toilet commode wheelchair for complex mobility needs

My Aged Care Funding Options

Home Care Packages (HCP) support

For older Australians, Home Care Packages (HCPs) can include wheelchair commodes as part of assistive technology to support independence at home.

Assistive technology for elderly hygiene and mobility

Commodes can be included as essential equipment for safe toileting and showering under aged care funding.

SWEP subsidies in Victoria

In Victoria, the Statewide Equipment Program (SWEP) provides subsidies for eligible clients, further reducing the cost of mobility and hygiene aids.

Choosing the Right Wheelchair Commode

When selecting a wheelchair commode, consider the user’s mobility, home environment, and care needs.

• Reclining wheelchair with commode: Ideal for high-support users needing maximum comfort.
• Foldable wheelchair with commode: Best for space-saving or travel requirements.
• Self-propelled models: Give more independence for users with upper body strength.

Price ranges vary, but NDIS, My Aged Care, and SWEP can all help offset costs.

Steps to Access NDIS or My Aged Care Funding

1. Occupational therapist assessment – An OT will evaluate needs and recommend the right model.
2. Equipment trial and product recommendations – Trial options such as foldable or reclining commodes before purchase.
3. Submitting funding requests – Your OT or provider submits documentation to NDIS or My Aged Care for approval.
4. Delivery and setup – Once approved, the wheelchair commode is delivered, with training for carers and families.

Conclusion: Wheelchair Commodes as Essential Mobility and Hygiene Aids

Wheelchair commodes are vital for independence, safety, and dignity. Both NDIS and My Aged Care can cover commode wheelchairs, with funding options including Home Care Packages, bathroom equipment categories, and SWEP subsidies in Victoria.

• Explore wheelchair commodes
• View more mobility aids in our store
• Enquire about NDIS or Aged Care funding
• Contact us for personalised guidance

FAQs About Wheelchair Commodes & Funding

Q1: Does NDIS fund wheelchair commodes? 

Yes, if assessed as reasonable and necessary for daily living support.

Q2: Can My Aged Care Home Care Packages cover commodes? 

Yes, commode wheelchairs are commonly included in HCPs as hygiene and mobility aids.

Q3: Are reclining commode wheelchairs more expensive?

Yes, but they may be fully or partially covered under NDIS or aged care funding.

Q4: What if I live in Victoria?

Victorians may access SWEP subsidies to reduce out-of-pocket costs for commodes.

Q5: Do I need an occupational therapist to apply? 

Yes, both NDIS and My Aged Care typically require an OT assessment for equipment approval.