Assistive technology
What Assistive Technology Includes
Assistive technology (AT) is any equipment or device that helps you do something you otherwise could not do safely or independently. Our OTs assess and prescribe a wide range of AT, including:
- Mobility: walking frames, manual and power wheelchairs, scooters and seating
- Bathroom and toileting: shower chairs, commodes, over-toilet frames and bath boards
- Transfers: hoists, slide sheets, transfer boards and bed rails
- Beds and pressure care: adjustable beds, pressure mattresses and cushions
- Daily living aids: kitchen aids, dressing aids, reachers and adapted cutlery
- Upper limb: splints and arm supports
NDIS cost levels
How the NDIS Funds Assistive Technology
The NDIS groups assistive technology by cost per item and each level needs different evidence:
Low cost: under $1,500Usually bought from your plan without a formal assessment, though OT advice helps you choose the right item
Mid cost: $1,500 to $15,000Needs written evidence from an allied health professional such as an OT
High cost: over $15,000Needs an AT assessment report and a quote that includes delivery, set-up and training
Repairs and maintenanceCan also be funded, so your equipment stays safe to use
The process
Our AT Assessment Process
- Assessment: we assess your needs, your body, your home and how you will use the equipment.
- Trial: we arrange trials of suitable options with suppliers, ideally in your own home.
- Prescription and report: we write the NDIS AT assessment with clear reasons why the item is the best value option for your goals.
- Delivery and set-up: we check the equipment fits and works as intended and train you and your supports to use it safely.
Read our guide to NDIS AT and home modification assessments →
Service area
Where We Provide AT Assessments
Our occupational therapists visit clients at home across 302 Melbourne suburbs. Regular therapy covers suburbs within about a 30-minute drive of Templestowe Lower, from the north-east and east to the CBD, Clayton and Dandenong. Functional capacity assessments and other assessments are available across all our service areas.
FAQ
Assistive Technology Assessment FAQs
Do I need an OT assessment for all equipment?
No. Low-cost items under $1,500 usually do not need a formal assessment. Mid-cost items need written evidence from an allied health professional and high-cost items over $15,000 need a full AT assessment report.
How is the AT assessment funded?
The OT's time is usually funded from Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living Skills (Category 15). The equipment itself is funded from your Capital – Assistive Technology (Category 05) budget.
Can I trial equipment before it is funded?
Yes. We arrange trials with suppliers, ideally in your own home, so we know the item works for you before it is requested.
How long does NDIS approval take?
It depends on the item and the NDIA's processing times. Clear, well-evidenced reports reduce the chance of delays or requests for more information.
Do you have a waitlist?
No. We can book an AT assessment as soon as your details and funding are confirmed.