NDIS Low Cost Assistive Technology Explained
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NDIS Low Cost Assistive Technology Explained
Assistive technology can help NDIS participants complete everyday activities with greater independence. It may include simple items such as walking sticks, shower aids, reachers, communication tools and equipment for personal care.
Some of these items may be funded as low cost assistive technology, often shortened to low cost AT. Understanding how this funding works can help you make informed choices and avoid buying equipment that may not suit your needs or plan.
This guide explains what low cost AT means, what to consider before purchasing and how to choose suitable equipment.
What is assistive technology?
Assistive technology is equipment, technology or products that help a person complete tasks related to their disability.
The item may support activities such as:
- Moving around the home or community
- Personal care
- Preparing meals
- Communicating
- Managing daily routines
- Accessing work, study or community activities
- Staying safe while completing everyday tasks
Assistive technology can be simple or complex. A walking stick is an example of a simple, low cost item. More complex equipment may include powered mobility devices, specialised seating or electronic communication systems.
The right item depends on the person, their goals and the task they need help with. An item that works well for one participant may not be suitable for another.
What does “low cost” mean under the NDIS?
Low cost assistive technology usually refers to less complex equipment that is relatively easy to set up and use. It may be available through a participant’s plan when it relates to their disability support needs.
The NDIS has rules about how funding can be used. These rules can change, so you should check your current plan, the latest NDIS guidance or speak with your plan manager before buying an item.
Low cost does not mean that every inexpensive product is automatically NDIS-funded. The item should still:
- Relate to your disability
- Support an activity or goal in your plan
- Be reasonable and necessary under NDIS rules
- Be suitable for your needs
- Offer value for money
- Be safe and appropriate to use
If you are unsure, ask your support coordinator, plan manager, local area coordinator or occupational therapist for guidance.
Examples of low cost assistive technology
Low cost AT can cover many types of everyday equipment. Examples may include:
- Walking sticks and other basic mobility aids
- Grab rails or selected bathroom aids
- Shower chairs and toileting equipment
- Reachers and dressing aids
- Simple kitchen aids
- Visual timers and reminder tools
- Basic communication supports
- Equipment that helps with personal care
- Low cost items that support access to community activities
This list is only a general guide. Whether an item can be purchased with NDIS funding depends on your circumstances, plan and the current funding rules.
An ordinary household item is not necessarily assistive technology. For example, a standard chair bought for general comfort may not be disability-related. A specialised chair that supports a participant with a disability-related daily activity may be considered differently.
Can you buy low cost AT without approval?
Some low cost items may be purchased without a separate approval process. However, you remain responsible for checking that the purchase is allowed under your plan and the relevant NDIS rules.
Before buying, consider the following questions:
- Is the item connected to my disability-related needs?
- Does it help with a goal or activity included in my plan?
- Is it listed as an allowable support under the current NDIS rules?
- Do I have enough funding in the correct budget category?
- Is the item suitable for my height, weight, strength and daily environment?
- Do I need professional advice before using it?
- What happens if the item is unsuitable or needs repair?
If you manage your own funding, keep your receipt and product information. If your plan is plan-managed, ask your plan manager about the purchasing and payment process. If your plan is agency-managed, check whether the supplier is able to claim through the NDIS system.
Do not assume that a supplier’s statement that an item is “NDIS-friendly” means it is automatically funded. Always check the purchase against your own plan and the current rules.
Choosing a walking stick as low cost AT
A walking stick may be useful for a participant who needs some support while walking. It is important to choose one based on practical needs rather than appearance alone.
Consider:
- Height adjustment: The handle should be set to a suitable height. A stick that is too high or too low may be uncomfortable or difficult to use.
- Weight capacity: Check the manufacturer’s stated capacity. The stick should be suitable for the user’s weight.
- Handle design: Different handles suit different hand shapes, grip strengths and preferences.
- Ferrule condition: The rubber ferrule, or tip, should make reliable contact with the ground and be replaced when worn.
- Weight: A lightweight stick may be easier to carry, while a heavier design may suit someone seeking a more robust option.
- Environment: Think about indoor flooring, footpaths, grass and other surfaces where the stick will be used.
- Storage and transport: Consider whether the stick needs to be carried in a car or taken to appointments.
A walking stick is not suitable for every mobility need. If you have concerns about balance, strength, pain or safe walking, speak with a qualified health professional before choosing or using one.
Walking stick options from Health Wholesale
The following products may be worth considering when a walking stick is identified as suitable for your needs. They are examples only. NDIS funding eligibility is not automatic and should be checked before purchase.
Extra Heavy Duty Walking Stick
The Rebotec Simplex 175 Extra Heavy Duty Walking Stick has an adjustable height range of 74–96 cm and a stated capacity of up to 175 kg. It has a 19 mm ferrule diameter and is manufactured in Germany.
This option may suit a participant who needs a walking stick with a higher stated weight capacity. Check the adjustment range and product measurements before ordering.
Walking Stick with Ergonomic Anatomic Handle
The Rebotec Handy Walking Stick adjusts from 72–95 cm and has a stated capacity of 125 kg. It weighs 340 g and has an anatomic-shaped handle.
An anatomic handle may be worth considering if handle shape and comfort are important to you. Check that the design suits the hand you use and that the height can be set correctly.
Walking Stick with Derby Handle
The Rebotec Simplex Walking Stick with Derby Handle adjusts from 73–96 cm and has a stated capacity of 125 kg. It weighs 400 g and includes a non-slip rubber tip.
Its adjustable design may suit everyday use or travel. As with any walking aid, confirm that the product is appropriate for your mobility needs before purchasing.
Do you need an occupational therapist?
You may not need an occupational therapy assessment for every simple item. However, professional advice can be useful when the equipment affects safety, posture, transfers or mobility.
An occupational therapist may help you:
- Identify the task that needs support
- Compare suitable equipment
- Check measurements and fit
- Consider how the item will be used at home and in the community
- Reduce the risk of choosing equipment that is difficult or unsafe to use
- Explain whether a more complex solution may be needed
For a walking stick, a health professional can also check whether the height, handle and technique are suitable. They may recommend a different type of mobility aid if a stick does not provide enough support.
You should seek advice before using equipment if you have recently had an injury, have changing mobility needs or feel unsteady when walking.
Common mistakes to avoid
Buying before checking your funding
A low price does not make an item automatically claimable. Check your available funding and the current NDIS rules first.
Choosing by appearance alone
Colour and style can matter, but fit, capacity and safe use should come first.
Ignoring measurements
Check the product dimensions against your height and the space where you will use the item. For mobility aids, also check the stated weight capacity.
Forgetting ongoing costs
Some equipment may need replacement tips, batteries, maintenance or repairs. Consider these costs before buying.
Assuming a product will work for everyone
Personal needs differ. Ask for professional advice if you are unsure whether an item is suitable.
Not keeping purchase records
Keep your receipt, product details and any advice received. These records may be useful for your plan records or future questions about the purchase.
A simple checklist before you buy
Use this checklist when considering low cost assistive technology:
- Identify the everyday task you want to make easier.
- Check how the item relates to your disability support needs.
- Read your plan and the current NDIS guidance.
- Confirm the correct funding category and budget.
- Check measurements, capacity and safety information.
- Ask a professional for advice when needed.
- Compare suitable products and total costs.
- Keep your receipt and product information.
Final thoughts
NDIS low cost assistive technology can include practical equipment that supports everyday activities. The key is to choose an item because it meets an identified need, not simply because it is inexpensive or labelled as an NDIS product.
Check your plan and current NDIS requirements before purchasing. When safety, fit or mobility is a concern, ask an occupational therapist or another suitable health professional for advice. A careful approach can help you select equipment that is appropriate, useful and easier to manage.