Assistive Technology and the NDIS: A Plain-English Guide
What assistive technology is, how the NDIS funds low, mid and higher-cost AT, when an assessment is needed, and how quotes, trials and repairs work.
Assistive technology, or AT, is any equipment or device that helps you do something more easily, safely or independently. It ranges from a simple everyday gadget to complex, custom-built equipment. This guide explains the levels of AT, how the NDIS decides what to fund, and how trials, quotes and repairs fit in. Take it a section at a time.
What counts as assistive technology
How the NDIS funds AT: Capital and Core
When AT is assessment-led
Quotes, trials and choosing the right device
Keeping AT working over time
Getting started
Frequently asked questions
What is assistive technology in the NDIS?
Assistive technology is any equipment or device that helps you do something more easily, safely or independently because of your disability. It ranges from low-cost everyday items like reachers and shower stools to complex equipment like power wheelchairs and speech devices. To be funded it must be…
Does AT come from Core or Capital funding?
It depends on the item. Higher-cost, complex AT such as wheelchairs and custom devices is generally funded from the Capital budget, which is usually tied to a specific quoted item. Lower-cost or consumable items can sometimes come from Core. Your plan and your planner can confirm which applies to…
Do I always need an assessment for AT?
No. Lower-cost, everyday AT is often simple to arrange and you can usually choose it yourself. Higher-cost and complex AT is generally assessment-led, meaning a qualified professional such as an OT, physio or speech pathologist assesses your needs and recommends the specific device with supporting…
Why does the NDIA ask for quotes?
For higher-cost AT the NDIA usually wants one or more quotes so it can see the cost and check the funding is value for money. Your assessor or supplier can help you gather them. Lower-cost items generally do not need formal quotes in the same way.
Can I try equipment before it's bought?
Often yes. Trialling a device — sometimes through a loan pool — lets you check it genuinely suits you before the money is spent, which helps avoid the wrong device. Our guide Trialling assistive technology explains how trials fit into the AT process.
Are the AT rules changing?
There are AT and home-modification reforms in train, so processes and guidance are developing rather than settled. It is worth checking current NDIS guidance and your own plan rather than relying on older information.