NDIS Assistive Technology Explained: Levels, Costs and How to Purchase AT
Understanding NDIS Assistive Technology (AT) can feel confusing. What counts as AT? What level does your item fall under? And can you purchase it using your NDIS funding?
The NDIS defines assistive technology as:
“Items that help you do things you can’t do because of your disability OR things that help you do something more easily or safely.”
Assistive technology may include items that:
- Reduce the need for support or assistance
- Make support safer or easier
- Help maintain your functioning
- Allow you to complete tasks independently
- Are personalised to suit your individual needs
In this guide, Plan Hero explains:
- The different NDIS Assistive Technology levels
- What low cost assistive technology means
- What low risk assistive technology means
- How to purchase AT using your NDIS funding
What Are the Different NDIS Assistive Technology Levels?
The NDIA uses four levels to describe the complexity and risk of your assistive technology needs. These levels influence what evidence, quotes or assessments you may need before funding is approved.
Level 1 (Basic) Assistive Technology
Level 1 AT includes basic, low complexity items that:
- Cost less than $1,500
- Are low risk and unlikely to cause harm
- Are typically purchased from retail stores or online
- Do not require professional prescription or review
Examples of Level 1 AT:
Non-slip bathmats, large print labels, basic doorbells, simple daily living aids.
Level 2 (Standard) Assistive Technology
Level 2 AT includes standard, “off-the-shelf” products that:
- Are purchased through AT suppliers
- May be trialled before purchase
- Are low risk
- Require only minor adjustments (e.g. adjusting shower chair height)
- May require an assessment depending on individual needs
Examples of Level 2 AT:
Bath seats, handrails, modular ramps.
Level 3 (Specialised) Assistive Technology
Level 3 AT involves more specialised equipment that:
- Often requires modification to suit the participant
- Requires an assessment and written quote
- Includes supply, delivery, set-up and ongoing maintenance costs
Examples of Level 3 AT:
Desktop electronic magnifiers, bathroom modifications, pressure care mattresses.
Level 4 (Complex) Assistive Technology
Level 4 is the highest complexity category. These items:
- Are high cost and custom-made or uniquely configured
- Require formal assessment and written quotes
- Include ongoing maintenance and repair considerations
Examples of Level 4 AT:
Power wheelchairs, cochlear implant processors, major structural home modifications.
Some AT items may be considered higher complexity due to additional “risk factors.” These are outlined in the AT Complexity Level Classification document published by the NDIA.
What Is Low Cost Assistive Technology Under the NDIS?
The NDIA separates assistive technology funding into three cost categories.
Low Cost Assistive Technology
- Under $1,500 per item
- Generally funded through Core Supports (Consumables) OR Capital Supports (Assistive Technology)
Mid Cost Assistive Technology
- Between $1,500 and $5,000 per item
- Generally funded under Capital Supports – Assistive Technology
High Cost Assistive Technology
- Over $5,000 per item
- Funded under Capital Supports – Assistive Technology
Understanding whether your item is low, mid or high cost matters because the approval process changes depending on the category.
What Is Low Risk Assistive Technology?
Low risk assistive technology refers to items that:
- Do not pose a safety risk
- Can be safely used without professional set-up
- Are widely available off the shelf or online
Low risk AT typically:
- Is safe to use independently
- Does not require training
- Does not require formal NDIA approval before purchase (if low cost)
Higher risk assistive technology, such as power mobility devices, usually requires professional assessment and formal approval.
Can You Purchase Assistive Technology Using NDIS Funding?
Yes — but the process depends on the level, cost and risk category of the item.
If your plan includes funding under Core Supports – Consumables, you may be able to purchase low cost, low risk assistive technology without prior approval (exceptions apply).
You can check the “What can you spend your NDIS funding on?” section in the NDIS Participant Booklet 3 – Using Your NDIS Plan for guidance.
Purchasing Level 1 and 2 Low Cost AT
For items under $1,500:
- Usually funded under Consumables in your Core Budget
- Listed in the myPlace Portal under “Low Cost AT”
- Do not require an assessment or NDIA approval before purchase
Purchasing Level 3 and 4 Assistive Technology
For specialised or complex AT:
- An assessment is usually required
- Evidence and a cost estimate must be provided (even for items under $15,000)
For items over $15,000:
- One or more written quotes are required
- Quotes must be submitted to the NDIA (or your Plan Manager can assist)
- Once approved, the supplier invoice is paid by the NDIS
NDIS Assistive Technology Support
Navigating NDIS Assistive Technology funding rules can be complex — especially when assessments, quotes and evidence are required.
At Plan Hero, we help participants understand:
- Which AT level applies
- What documentation is needed
- Whether items can be purchased under Core or Capital budgets
- How to submit quotes correctly
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