Can the NDIS Fund a Modified Vehicle?
The modifications can be funded as Capital AT — hoists, hand controls, wheelchair access — but not the base vehicle. An OT assessment is required.
The modifications can be funded, but the vehicle itself can't. Things like hoists, wheelchair access, hand controls and specialised seating can be funded as Capital assistive technology; the base car is yours to provide. An occupational therapy and driver assessment is required first.
The short answer
How the NDIS decides
What's covered — and what isn't
The process, step by step
Bringing it together
Frequently asked questions
Does the NDIS pay for the whole modified vehicle?
No — the NDIS funds the disability-specific modifications, not the base vehicle. The car itself is a mainstream item you provide, while adaptations like hoists, ramps and hand controls can be funded as Capital assistive technology. An OT and driver assessment is needed to confirm what's reasonable…
Do I need an assessment for vehicle modifications?
Yes — vehicle modifications require an occupational therapy assessment, and for driving modifications a driver-trained assessor is also involved. They confirm what you need, whether driving is safe and possible for you, and whether your vehicle is suitable to modify. This assessment is usually the…
Should I buy the car before or after the assessment?
It's best to get the assessment first, because the assessor will consider whether a vehicle is suitable to modify based on its age, size and condition. Buying a car that can't be modified the way you need is an expensive mistake to avoid. Speak to your OT before committing to a particular vehicle.