NDIS and Assistive Technology Explained
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding for a wide range of disability equipment and assistive technology to help participants live more independently, access the community, and achieve their personal goals.
If you’re new to the NDIS or supporting someone who is, understanding which types of NDIS disability equipment are eligible for funding—and how to access them—can be confusing. This guide explains what equipment the NDIS may fund, how the support categories work, and how you can trial and receive the right products through a registered provider.
To explore approved products, visit our NDIS equipment store or book a free home trial with our team.
What Types of Disability Equipment Can Be Funded?
The NDIS funds equipment that is considered “reasonable and necessary” to help participants improve function, increase safety, and participate in daily life. These are often classified under assistive technology (AT).
Disability aids commonly funded by the NDIS include:
- Mobility equipment: Walkers, wheelchairs, scooters
- Daily living aids: Dressing tools, reachers, grip aids
- Bathroom and toilet equipment: Shower chairs, grab rails, commodes
- Bedroom aids: Adjustable beds, bed rails, pressure-relief mattresses
- Communication devices: AAC systems, speech-generating devices
- Home access products: Ramps, handrails, lift chairs
- Manual handling aids: Transfer boards, hoists
These devices must directly relate to the participant’s disability and their NDIS plan goals. Visit our assistive technology section for a curated selection of eligible products.
Categories of Support (Core, Capital, Capacity Building)
NDIS-funded equipment is allocated across three main budget categories:
1. Core Supports
This covers low-cost, everyday aids such as:
- Shower stools
- Long-handled sponges
- Dressing aids
- Non-slip mats
Items must typically cost under $1,500 and often don’t require formal assessment. Many are available in our daily living aids collection.
2. Capital Supports
This category funds more complex or high-cost equipment, such as:
- Power wheelchairs
- Adjustable beds
- Scooters
- Communication devices
These often require quotes and clinical assessments by an occupational therapist or other allied health professional.
3. Capacity Building Supports
This is for training or therapy to help participants use their equipment effectively. While it does not fund the equipment itself, it supports users in gaining the most benefit from it.
Not sure which category your equipment falls under? Contact our team for assistance and product recommendations.
Commonly Covered Aids and Devices
Here’s a breakdown of the most commonly funded NDIS disability equipment, organised by functional need:
Mobility Equipment
- Manual and powered wheelchairs
- Four-wheel rollators
- Folding mobility scooters
- Transfer boards
Visit our mobility scooters and wheelchairs page for options with home trial availability.
Bathroom Aids
- Shower chairs and stools
- Over toilet frames
- Grab rails
- Commode chairs
See more in our bathroom safety aids section.
Bedroom Aids
- Adjustable beds
- Bed poles or rails
- Pressure care mattresses
- Overbed tables
Browse our bedroom support equipment online.
Daily Living Aids
- Reachers and pick-up sticks
- Jar and bottle openers
- Sock aids
- Weighted utensils for tremors
Perfect for promoting independence in cooking, dressing, or grooming.
Eligibility Criteria and How to Access Funding
To access NDIS-funded equipment:
- You must be a registered NDIS participant with an approved plan
- The equipment must be considered “reasonable and necessary”
- The item should support your functional goals, such as mobility, self-care, or community access
- An allied health professional’s assessment may be required for higher-cost or complex items
- For Capital Supports, you will need a quote from an NDIS provider
Assistive Tech Hub offers detailed quotes, product advice, and support with documentation to simplify the process. Learn more about how we help NDIS participants access the right equipment.
Getting Help from Allied Health and Support Coordinators
NDIS participants don’t have to navigate equipment selection alone. You can work with professionals such as:
- Occupational therapists – Provide clinical assessments and recommend the right assistive technology
- Support coordinators – Help you understand your plan and connect with trusted providers
- Local area coordinators (LACs) – Assist with implementation and goal-setting
Our team also works directly with carers, OTs, and LACs to deliver home trials and quote support. Book a consultation or home trial to get started.
Conclusion
The NDIS covers a wide range of disability equipment across mobility, daily living, bathroom, and home support needs. By understanding the categories of support and working with healthcare professionals, participants can access assistive technology that enhances independence and safety.
Whether you need a simple dressing aid or a powered wheelchair, the right support and equipment can transform everyday life.
- Explore our NDIS-approved store
- Book a home trial to test before purchase
- Contact our team for help with quotes or assessments
FAQs
What types of equipment does the NDIS fund?
The NDIS funds assistive technology such as wheelchairs, walkers, shower aids, beds, daily living tools, and communication devices that support independence and safety.
Do I need an assessment to get NDIS equipment?
For simple, low-cost items, no formal assessment is needed. For high-cost or complex equipment, an occupational therapist or allied health professional must provide a clinical report.
Can I get a home trial for NDIS-funded equipment?
Yes. Assistive Tech Hub offers free home trials across Victoria for many mobility and daily living products.
How do I know if a product is NDIS approved?
Products must meet safety, quality, and clinical standards. We only stock NDIS-compliant disability aids. You can contact us for quotes and guidance.
Can the NDIS fund equipment for elderly people?
Yes. If an older adult has a disability and is an NDIS participant, they may be eligible for funding. For non-NDIS seniors, support may be available through My Aged Care or state programs like SWEP in Victoria.
