Mobility equipment such as wheelchairs, scooters and other such devices can actually change lives but the hard fact is their price: a high price for many people with disability. Thus it constitutes a huge barrier.

This is where the government grants come into play. These grants provide lifelines in that they cover all or part of the cost incurred in acquiring mobility aids. Be it a high-tech power wheelchair or the most basic mobility scooter, grants bring such important testing tools to affordable reach.

At Assistive Tech Hub, we are here to help. We lead individuals through the maze of grant options and connect them with the right equipment for their needs. Explore Assistive Tech Hub.

What Are Government Grants for Mobility Equipment?

Government grants provide financial assistance schemes by the federal government, state governments, or local governments for people with disabilities who use them in some way or the other to obtain mobility equipment and lead a more independent life.

These grants don’t have to be paid back. They are intended at improving the quality of life, and they usually cover the following:

Manual and power wheelchairs
Mobility scooters
Walking aids and crutches
Vehicle modifications
Home accessibility equipment

Who can apply?

Most grants require that the applicant:

Has a qualifying disability.
Is an Australian resident.
Can provide supporting medical documents.

To see what equipment you might get funded for, visit the Assistive Tech Hub Store.

Types of Government Grants for Mobility Equipment

1. NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) Funding

One of the largest fundings in Australia for people with disability is NDIS.

NDIS can pay for:

Power wheelchairs
Mobility scooters
Assistive tech, such as hoists or adjustable beds.

How to apply:

For professional assessment, take an occupational therapist’s assessment
Prepare a plan that comprises mobility needs
Submit the plan to NDIS

Eligibility: Someone must be below 65 and have a permanent disability that significantly affects doing everyday tasks.

Need help with this process? Contact Assistive Tech Hub and we’ll walk you through it.

2. State and Territory-Based Subsidies

Each Australian state and territory also have their own local grants or subsidies.

Some examples include:

NSW: EnableNSW Mobility Aid Programme
VIC: SWEP (State-wide Equipment Program)
QLD: MASS (Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme)

These are separate from NDIS and have their own rules.

Important things to note:

You must be a resident of that state
Often limited to certain equipment types
Usually requires a referral from healthcare provider

Learn more about programs in your state here.

3. DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs) Assistance

If you are a veteran, it allows you to apply for funding from the DVA.

What is funded?

Wheelchairs
Scooters
Home modification
Ramp and vehicle adaptations

You needed:

Gold or White DVA card
Medical proof of need
Prescription or referral from health professional

To see DVA-approved equipment options, visit the Assistive Tech Hub.

4. Other Government-Backed Financial Aid Programs

There are a few other options available:

Local Council Grants – Some councils give funds for mobility through their community programs.
Aged Care Packages – For older adults, equipment might be funded under the aged care program.
Special Needs Grants – For people with specific conditions (e.g., MS, ALS)

Eligibility Criteria for Government Grants

Most programs are going to look for:

Proof of disability or long-term health condition
Residence in Australia
Medical assessment from a GP or OT
Proof of financial need (sometimes)

The rules differ from one grant program to another, and the programs themselves are not as strict, at least regarding income caps or age.

If unsure about your standing, contact Assistive Tech Hub. We’ll do an assessment of options for free.

How to Apply for Government Grants for Mobility Equipment

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

Are you an Australian resident?

Do you have a medical condition that affects mobility?

Can a doctor or occupational therapist back that up?

You’ll likely be eligible if you answered yes to these questions.

Need help figuring it out? We can help. Contact Assistive Tech Hub for guidance on the application process.

Step 2: Gather Necessary Documentation

Here is what you will have to gather:

Diagnosis or letter from a healthcare provider
Proof of residency
Income documents (if any)
Quotes or invoices for equipment

Reach out to Assistive Tech Hub Contact for help in gathering documentation.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

There is a variety of applications. Some are done through state portals online; others involve physical forms or going through service providers.

Tip: Consider waiting weeks or even months for your approval.

Contact Assistive Tech Hub for support during the application process.

How to Choose the Right Mobility Equipment for Your Needs

With the approval in place, it’s time to pick your mobility equipment.

And here’s what to look for when choosing the right mobility device for you:

Weight limit
Size and comfort of the seat
Battery life (for powered devices)
Easily transportable (foldable or lightweight)
Adjustable and controllable

If looking for high-quality, then try our top world carbon fibre power wheelchairs – lightweight but very strong and stylish. Visit the store for available products that meet a wide range of needs.

How Government Grants Work with Other Funding Options

More often than not, government funding won’t meet the full costs. Therefore, it can be complemented with one or more of the following:

Private insurance
Worker’s compensation
Savings or money raised personally
Financing and payment plans from Assistive Tech Hub

This helps to close any funding gaps, especially for high-tech equipment.

Do you want advice on how to combine funding? Speak to us.

Common Issues and Challenges with Government Grants

It is not always smooth sailing. Issues facing individuals include:

Long wait for approval
Complex paperwork
Ambiguous eligibility rules
Need for medical report updates often

Here are some tips to handle it:

Organize all your documents in one place
Get an idea of what the agencies are up to by following them
Get help from an expert — like us at Assistive Tech Hub

We will simplify the entire exercise. Let us chat.

Conclusion

Government grants can be life-changing. They make mobility equipment accessible for thousands of Australians who otherwise couldn’t afford it.

Whether you’re applying through the NDIS, your state’s subsidy program, or the DVA, the key is knowing your options and preparing your documents well.

And remember — you don’t have to do this alone.

At Assistive Tech Hub, we help you find the right grants, choose the best equipment, and even complete your applications.