If you or a loved one is living with disability, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may help cover the cost of mobility aids and equipment. But the system can feel overwhelming at first. This guide breaks down, in plain English, how mobility aids fit into the NDIS, what's typically covered, and the general steps to getting equipment funded.
Please note: this is general information only. The NDIS assesses every participant individually, and funding decisions are made by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). Always confirm your specific situation with the NDIS or your support coordinator.
What is the NDIS?
The NDIS is an Australian Government scheme that provides funding to eligible people with permanent and significant disability. The goal is to help participants live more independently — and for many, that includes funding for mobility equipment like wheelchairs, walkers and bathroom aids.
How mobility aids fit into your plan
Under the NDIS, mobility equipment usually falls under what's called Assistive Technology (AT) — products that help you do things you otherwise couldn't, or do them more safely. Assistive Technology is generally grouped by cost and complexity:
- Low-cost AT: typically under $1,500 — items like a walking stick, basic shower stool or simple grab rail.
- Mid-cost AT: roughly $1,500–$15,000 — such as a manual wheelchair or rollator.
- High-cost AT: over $15,000 — typically powered wheelchairs and complex custom equipment, which usually require an assessment from an allied health professional such as an occupational therapist.
The general steps to getting equipment funded
While every plan is different, the path usually looks something like this:
- 1. Check your plan. Look at whether you have funding under "Capital – Assistive Technology." This is the budget mobility equipment normally comes from.
- 2. Get an assessment if needed. For mid and high-cost items, an occupational therapist or physiotherapist will often assess your needs and recommend suitable equipment.
- 3. Get a quote. Suppliers like Mobility Delivery can provide a written quote for the equipment you need.
- 4. Submit and approve. Depending on how your plan is managed (self-managed, plan-managed or NDIA-managed), the quote is submitted for approval or paid directly.
- 5. Receive your equipment. Once approved, your equipment is ordered and delivered.
Self-managed, plan-managed or NDIA-managed?
How you pay for equipment depends on how your plan is managed:
- Self-managed: you purchase directly and claim back through the NDIS portal. This gives you the most flexibility in choosing your supplier.
- Plan-managed: a plan manager pays invoices on your behalf.
- NDIA-managed: you'll need to use NDIS-registered providers.
How Mobility Delivery can help
We supply a wide range of mobility equipment suitable for NDIS participants — from wheelchairs and rollators to bathroom safety aids. If you're self-managed or plan-managed, you can shop with us directly, and we're happy to provide written quotes for your plan.
Not sure where to start? Call our friendly Australian team on 1300 240 159 and we'll help you find the right equipment for your needs.
