Understanding how Assistive Technology works under the NDIS can feel overwhelming. Many participants know they may be eligible for support — but are unsure how devices like reading pens, communication tools, or other everyday technology fit into their plan.
Assistive Technology (AT) refers to equipment and devices that help people perform daily tasks more independently. For many participants, this can include tools that support reading, comprehension, communication, learning, or accessing information.
If you’re considering Assistive Technology as part of your NDIS plan — or preparing for a planning meeting — this guide will walk you through a clear eligibility checklist. We’ll explain what the NDIS looks for, how funding categories work, what documentation you may need, and how to strengthen your request.
What is assistive technology under the NDIS?
Assistive Technology (AT) refers to equipment, devices, or tools that help a person perform tasks more independently and safely. It is designed to reduce barriers caused by disability and improve everyday functioning.
This can include simple, practical tools that support:
- Reading and understanding written information
- Communication and language translation
- Mobility and physical access
- Personal care and daily living tasks
- Learning, employment, and community participation
Under the NDIS, Assistive Technology (AT) is grouped by both cost and risk level. This helps determine what evidence, quotes, or professional advice may be required before funding is approved.
Understanding these categories can help you prepare properly before requesting funding.
Low-cost assistive technology
Generally under $1,500 per item
Low-cost AT includes everyday assistive items that are:
- Unlikely to cause harm in daily use
- Simple to set up and use safely
- Widely available for purchase (including retail settings)
- Often suitable without formal professional assessment
These items are typically practical tools that improve independence in reading, communication, learning, mobility, or daily tasks.
Because low-cost AT is considered lower risk, the approval process is usually simpler. In many cases, formal quotes or complex assessments are not required, though evidence of need may still be helpful.
Mid-cost assistive technology
Between $1,500 and $15,000 per item
Mid-cost AT involves equipment that may:
- Be more specialised or complex
- Require professional advice or setup
- Need supporting evidence such as reports or assessments
- Have greater impact on safety or functional capacity
While items under $15,000 generally do not require multiple supplier quotes, the NDIS may still request:
- A cost estimate
- Evidence of functional need
- Justification that the support is reasonable and necessary
Mid-cost AT often supports more specific or tailored needs and may require clearer documentation to show how it aligns with your NDIS goals.
High-cost assistive technology
Over $15,000 per item
High-cost AT typically includes complex or specialised equipment. These items:
- May carry higher safety risks
- Often require formal professional assessment
- Require supplier quotes
- Must meet detailed justification criteria
- May require NDIA approval before purchase
The process for high-cost AT is more structured, with detailed evidence required to ensure the equipment is appropriate and represents value for money.
Simplifying understanding of AT risk levels
The NDIS also categorises Assistive Technology based on risk — not just cost.
Low-risk AT is:
- Unlikely to cause harm
- Easy to trial or purchase
- Simple to use independently
Higher-risk AT may:
- Require training or professional setup
- Be complex or technical
- Have potential safety considerations
In some cases, even low-cost items may require professional advice if the participant’s needs are complex.
Now, let’s move to the next step.
Step 1: Do you meet basic NDIS eligibility?
Before looking at Assistive Technology funding, it’s important to confirm that you meet the general NDIS access requirements.
The NDIS is designed to support people with a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to take part in everyday activities.
✅ Basic NDIS eligibility checklist
To apply for the NDIS, you generally need to meet the following criteria:
☐ Age requirement
You must be under 65 years of age at the time you apply.
☐ Residency requirement
You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a Protected Special Category Visa.
☐ Disability requirement
You must have a permanent or likely permanent disability that significantly impacts your daily functioning.
☐ Functional impact
Your disability must substantially affect your ability to complete everyday tasks such as:
- Communication
- Learning
- Mobility
- Self-care
- Social participation
If your disability impacts your ability to read, understand written information, communicate clearly, or participate independently in education or work, this may be relevant when considering Assistive Technology supports.
What happens if you’re not sure?
If you’re unsure whether you meet the criteria, you can:
- Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110
- Visit the official NDIS website
- Speak with a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
- Discuss your situation with a support provider
Step 2: Does your plan include funding that may cover assistive technology?
Once you’re approved for the NDIS, the next step is to review your plan and understand where Assistive Technology (AT) funding may sit.
NDIS plans are divided into different funding categories. Assistive Technology can be funded under specific budget areas depending on your goals and support needs.
Check your plan for these sections
Look through your plan for references to:
☐ Assistive Technology
☐ Low-Cost AT
☐ Core Supports
☐ Capacity Building Supports
Understanding the main funding categories
Core Supports
These generally help with everyday activities and daily living needs. In some cases, low-cost Assistive Technology may be funded here if it supports independence.
Capacity Building Supports
These are focused on developing long-term skills and achieving goals such as improving literacy, communication, learning, or employment readiness. Some Assistive Technology may align with these goals.
Assistive Technology (AT) Line Items
Some plans include specific funding allocated directly for Assistive Technology. This may be listed separately in your budget.
How to tell if AT may be included
Ask yourself:
☐ Does my plan mention equipment or technology?
☐ Do my goals include independence, literacy, communication, or learning?
☐ Has funding been allocated for low-cost AT or minor equipment?
If you’re unsure, your Support Coordinator, Plan Manager, or Local Area Coordinator can help you review your plan and clarify whether Assistive Technology funding may be available.
Assistive Technology eligibility core checklist
Now that you understand general NDIS eligibility and funding categories, the next step is to determine whether Assistive Technology may be appropriate for your situation.
Use this checklist to assess whether a device or tool could reasonably support your NDIS goals.
A. Identifying the need
Ask yourself:
☐ Do I experience difficulty reading printed text independently?
☐ Do I struggle to understand written instructions, forms, or study materials?
☐ Do I rely on others to explain written information?
☐ Does language or communication create barriers in daily life?
☐ Do attention or processing challenges affect my comprehension?
If you answered “yes” to any of the above, Assistive Technology may help reduce these barriers.
B. Functional impact
The NDIS focuses on how your disability affects everyday life.
Consider whether your challenges impact:
☐ Education or training participation
☐ Workplace tasks or employment opportunities
☐ Independent living and daily activities
☐ Confidence in community settings
☐ Ability to complete written tasks on your own
Assistive Technology is more likely to be considered when there is a clear link between the device and improved independence.
C. Alignment with your NDIS goals
Review your plan goals and check whether they relate to:
☐ Increasing independence
☐ Improving literacy or learning outcomes
☐ Strengthening communication skills
☐ Building confidence in daily living
☐ Preparing for employment or further education
For Assistive Technology to be funded, it must directly support one or more of your stated goals.
Why this checklist matters
The NDIS assesses Assistive Technology requests based on:
- Functional impact
- Goal alignment
- Value for money
- Whether the support is reasonable and necessary
If your situation clearly demonstrates these elements, you are in a stronger position to request Assistive Technology funding as part of your plan.
What makes assistive technology “reasonable and necessary”?
For Assistive Technology (AT) to be funded under the NDIS, it must meet the “reasonable and necessary” criteria. This is one of the most important parts of any funding request.
In simple terms, the NDIS will assess whether the device is directly related to your disability and whether it helps you achieve your goals.
The NDIS looks at:
1. Is it related to your disability?
The device must address functional challenges caused by your disability — not general convenience.
For example, if reading difficulties are linked to your disability and affect daily functioning, a reading support device may be considered appropriate
2. Does it support your plan goals?
Assistive Technology should clearly align with one or more of your NDIS goals, such as:
- Increasing independence
- Improving literacy or communication
- Participating in education or employment
- Building daily living skills
If the device helps you move closer to those goals, it strengthens your case.
3. Does it improve functional capacity?
The NDIS considers whether the support increases your ability to do things independently and reduces reliance on others.
For example, a device that allows you to read and understand information without needing someone to assist you demonstrates increased functional capacity.
4. Is it value for money?
The NDIS will consider whether the cost of the Assistive Technology represents good value compared to other support options.
In some cases, a one-time purchase of Assistive Technology may reduce the need for ongoing support services, which can demonstrate long-term value.
5. Is it effective and beneficial?
There should be reasonable evidence that the device is likely to work for your needs and provide meaningful benefit.
This can be supported through:
- Professional recommendations
- Trial use
- Clear explanation of expected outcomes
Supporting documentations checklist
Once you’ve confirmed eligibility and reviewed your plan, the next step is to prepare the right documentation to support your Assistive Technology request.
Clear, relevant information can make the process smoother and reduce delays.
What documents may be helpful?
Depending on your plan and funding level, you may need:
☐ Professional reports
From an occupational therapist, speech therapist, psychologist, educator, or other allied health professional explaining:
- Your functional challenges
- How they impact daily life
- Why Assistive Technology is appropriate
☐ Goal alignment statement
A short explanation linking the device to your NDIS goals, such as improving independence, literacy, or communication.
☐ Supplier quote
A formal quote from the supplier outlining:
- Product name
- Description
- Product specs
- Cost
- Inclusions (e.g., accessories, support materials)
☐ Trial feedback (if available)
Notes from a trial period showing how the device improved independence, comprehension, or participation.
💡Tip
For low-cost Assistive Technology, documentation requirements are often simpler. However, providing a clear explanation and relevant supporting information can still strengthen your request.
Preparing this step carefully increases your confidence — and improves the likelihood of approval.
After approval: What happens next?
Once your Assistive Technology has been approved in your NDIS plan, the next steps are usually straightforward.
Here’s what you can expect.
1. Confirm your funding management type
First, check how your plan is managed:
- Self-managed – You can purchase the device directly and submit claims yourself.
- Plan-managed – Your Plan Manager pays the supplier invoice on your behalf.
- NDIA-managed – The supplier invoices the NDIA directly (if registered).
Knowing your plan type helps determine the payment process.
2. Place your order
You will typically:
- Request a formal invoice or quote
- Confirm your delivery details
- Submit the invoice to your Plan Manager or NDIA (if required)
- Finalise payment arrangements
Once processed, your Assistive Technology will be dispatched.
3. Start using the device
After receiving the device:
- Set it up according to the instructions
- Explore the core features
- Begin using it in daily life — school, work, home, or community
If recommended, your therapist or educator may assist with integration into learning or daily routines.
4. Monitor progress
It’s helpful to:
- Track how the device supports your goals
- Note improvements in independence
- Record any outcomes or feedback
This can be useful during future plan reviews.
5. Plan reviews and future funding
During your next plan review, you may:
- Discuss how the Assistive Technology has supported your goals
- Request continued or additional funding if required
- Provide feedback or updated professional reports
Demonstrating positive outcomes strengthens future requests.
Navigating Assistive Technology through the NDIS doesn’t have to be complicated. When you understand the eligibility criteria, funding categories, and what “reasonable and necessary” means, you can approach the process with greater confidence. By clearly outlining your needs, aligning the support with your goals, and gathering the right documentation, you place yourself in a stronger position to access the tools that genuinely improve independence, learning, and daily participation.
If you’re exploring a practical, easy-to-use tool to support reading, communication, and everyday independence, consider the WisePen AI Reader. Designed to assist with text-to-speech, translation, and AI-supported learning features, it may be a helpful option to discuss with your planner or support coordinator as part of your Assistive Technology pathway.
