NDIS Assistive Technology: From Assessment to Approval

What is assistive technology under the NDIS?

What assistive technology actually means under the NDIS

Assistive technology (AT) is any device, piece of equipment, or system that helps you do something you couldn't otherwise do because of your disability — or do it more safely and easily. Under the NDIS, AT ranges from simple things like a shower chair all the way up to complex systems: powered wheelchairs with custom seating, communication devices, vehicle modifications. It's a huge category.

AT is funded under your Capital Supports budget (for higher-cost items) or your Consumables budget (for low-cost, low-risk items under $1,500). The distinction matters because the process for getting each funded is different. See our complete list of NDIS support categories to understand where AT sits among your budgets.

The four levels of assistive technology

The NDIS groups AT into four levels based on cost and risk. The level determines what evidence and approvals you'll need.

Level 1: Low-cost, low-risk (under $1,500)

Everyday items you can buy without an assessment. Non-slip bath mats, large-print keyboards, talking watches, basic shower stools. Funded through your Consumables budget. No formal assessment or quote needed — just buy what you need and submit the invoice to your plan manager.

Level 2: Low-to-medium risk ($1,500–$15,000)

These need some professional input — usually a recommendation from an OT, physio, or other allied health professional. Basic manual wheelchairs, standard shower commodes, basic hearing aids, simple communication devices. You'll need a written recommendation from a relevant professional and a quote from a supplier.

Level 3: Medium-to-high risk ($15,000–$30,000)

These require a comprehensive assessment, usually from an AT specialist or OT with AT experience. Powered wheelchairs, complex seating systems, high-end communication devices (speech-generating devices). You'll need a detailed AT assessment report explaining why this specific item is the most appropriate solution, plus trial reports if you've tested equipment.

Level 4: High-risk, complex (over $30,000)

Custom or highly complex solutions that often need significant environmental modifications or integration. Custom-built wheelchairs, complex home automation, vehicle modifications, ceiling hoists with structural changes. These need a comprehensive specialist assessment, multiple quotes, and an NDIA approval process that can take months. Your plan manager should be involved early to make sure funding is sorted.

The assessment and approval process

Level 1 items are straightforward — here's what the process looks like for Level 2–4 AT:

1. Identify the need — you, a family member, or your support coordinator realises that AT could help with a specific goal or daily activity.
2. Get an assessment — an OT, physio, speech pathologist, or AT specialist assesses your needs and recommends specific equipment. For Level 3 and 4, this should be a comprehensive written report.
3. Try before you buy — wherever possible, trial the equipment. Many AT suppliers offer trial periods. Your assessor should document the trial outcomes in their report.
4. Obtain quotes — get formal quotes from suppliers. For higher-cost items, you may need two or three quotes to demonstrate value for money.
5. Submit to the NDIA — your plan manager or support coordinator submits the assessment report, quotes, and any trial reports to the NDIA for approval (if needed).
6. Purchase and setup — once approved, your plan manager pays the supplier directly from your Capital budget, and the equipment is delivered and set up.

How plan management helps with AT

If you're plan-managed, your plan manager plays a genuinely useful role in the AT process. We can:

• Confirm your Capital budget is sufficient before you even start the assessment process
• Advise whether an item falls under Consumables or Capital (which changes the whole process)
• Review quotes and make sure they meet NDIS requirements
• Submit funding requests to the NDIA on your behalf
• Pay suppliers promptly once approved — cutting down wait times
• Track your AT spending and keep you informed about your remaining budget

Getting AT funded can feel slow, but the right plan manager keeps things moving. If you've been told you need equipment and you're not sure what the next step is, start by talking to your plan manager — we deal with this every day and can map out exactly what's needed. For related Capital Supports, see our guides on NDIS home modifications and NDIS consumables.