An in-depth guide to NDIS Assistive Technology for children

April 25, 2022

This blog provides parents and guardians with a clearer understanding of NDIS assistive technology, and what criteria your child needs to meet to receive funding for these items.

If you’re a parent of a child with a disability who requires devices or systems to perform daily tasks, you might be feeling confused about what is classified as NDIS assistive technology. The definition of NDIS Assistive Technology is quite broad in nature, and for those new to the world of disability or the

NDIS, it can be difficult to know what can be funded by the NDIA, or what devices fall into this category.

This blog provides parents and guardians with a clearer understanding of NDIS assistive technology, and what criteria your child needs to meet to receive funding for these items.

What is NDIS assistive technology?

The NDIA defines NDIS assistive technology as physical supports that help participants:

– do something more easily or safely

– do something they otherwise cannot do because of their disability.

This kind of technology can range from low tech and low-cost technology such as literacy software that reads text aloud to your child at school, right through to high-cost assistive technology such as a powered wheelchair.

Just like any other form of NDIS-funded support, assistive technology must be considered reasonable and necessary to a participant’s life and must be included in your disability plan to claim these supports.

There are different processes, pricing arrangement and price limits for assistive technology. These are:

– Low-cost assistive technology: under $1,500 per item. These items are usually available to be purchased off the shelf, are deemed highly safe and don’t require assistance to be set up. This might include items such as adaptive cutlery, right through to iPads, or smoke alarms with flashing lights for the hearing impaired.

– Mid-cost assistive technology: between $1,500 and $15,000 per item. These items are similar to low-cost assistive technology but may be modified to suit the child using the item. This might include personalised non-standard beds, mattresses and accessories, right through to communication devices.

– High-cost assistive technology: over $15,000 per item. Items under this category are typically for children with complex needs and will require an assessment by a professional assistive technology advisor. This is to ensure that your child is receiving the right piece of technology to suit their needs, and that both you and your child are comfortable with how the technology works and the associated risks involved with using it. This category may include items such as ceiling hoists, right through to custom-built wheelchairs.

It’s important to note that the NDIA does not require quotes for assistive technology items under $15,000, however, they may still ask you to provide evidence to ensure you’re purchasing the correct equipment for your child and their needs.

Where will I find funding for assistive technology in my child’s NDIS plan?

Funding for assistive technology may fall into two categories – your child’s Core Supports budget, if they require low-cost assistive technology and equipment, or their Capital Supports budget – for higher-cost pieces of assistive technology.

If your child receives funding for assistive technology in their plan, there will be at least $500 included in their Capacity Building Improved Daily Living – Budget so you can seek advice from an independent advisor about your child’s requirements.

How can I get the most out of my child’s plan to ensure they get the best NDIS assistive technology for their needs?

The best way to get the most out of your child’s NDIS plan and receive the right funding for the assistive technology they need is to engage a reputable plan management provider who can support you with valuable advice and assistance, from scoping your child’s individual needs through to managing the process for you.

When you engage Disability Plan Services as your child’s NDIS plan manager, you’re getting access to a team of experts who can:

· provide you with tailored advice on how you should/can be spending your budget to maximise services

· help you prepare for NDIS plan reviews

· liaise with service providers on your behalf and can negotiate better rates

· pay bills on your behalf and handle all record-keeping

· manage your budget and keep you informed of any remaining or low funds.

Additionally, our team of support coordinators at Disability Plan Services can put you in touch with trusted providers who can ensure your child is getting the best possible assistive technology equipment for their individual needs. To learn more about our support coordination services, click here.

Our team have been working in the disability services space for years and can help you simplify the complexities associated with assistive technology to ensure you’re able to purchase the best equipment for your child’s needs. If your child has a higher reliance on specialist support, we also offer complex case management services that can help your family break down some of the barriers your child might be facing when trying to access supports. You can learn about Disability Plan Services’ plan management and complex case management services here.

If you’re looking for individual assist NDIS help, Disability Plan Services comes at no extra cost to you or your NDIS budget. When you request Disability Plan Services for your plan management or complex case management services, you’ve got access to a team of experts who are familiar with smart assist group NDIS help, individual assist NDIS support and more. Get in touch with us today by calling 1800 312 870 or by emailing info@disabilityplanservices.com.au.