Introduction:

How to Request Low-Cost Technology in Your NDIS Plan

Technology like tablets, smartwatches, or simple communication devices can be life-changing for NDIS participants. But many people don’t realise that low-cost assistive technology (AT) can often be funded under your NDIS plan—if it’s reasonable and necessary.

In this blog, we’ll explain:

• What qualifies as low-cost AT
• When and how you can request it
• What documents you’ll need
• Where the funding comes from
• How Assist Providers can guide the process

🧠 What is Low-Cost Assistive Technology?

Low-cost AT refers to everyday technology under $1,500 that helps you meet your goals, improve independence, or increase participation.

Examples include:

• Tablets or iPads for communication
• Smartwatches for health or safety monitoring
• Noise-cancelling headphones for sensory regulation
• Trackers for people with memory or cognitive conditions
• Software or apps for learning or behaviour support

These items must:

✅ Be related to your disability

✅ Support a functional need or NDIS goal

✅ Be low risk and low cost

📦 What Funding Category Is It From?

For most participants, low-cost AT is funded under:

🔹 Core Supports – Consumables

This means you don’t need a separate AT budget—just approval to use funds flexibly (if plan-managed or self-managed).

If the item is more complex (e.g. requires setup or training), it might fall under:

🔹 Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living

🔍 What the NDIS Looks For (Reasonable & Necessary Test)

To be funded, your tech request must meet the NDIS’s reasonable and necessary criteria. This means:

✅ It helps you pursue your goals (e.g., social connection, learning, independence)

✅ It relates to your disability (not just a general want)

✅ It’s value for money

✅ It’s safe and appropriate

✅ You’ve explored mainstream alternatives first (like using a library or existing services)

📄 What You Need to Prepare

Here’s what to submit or show when requesting low-cost tech:

1. A goal in your NDIS plan that supports the need
2. E.g., “Improve communication”, “Manage anxiety”, “Build social connection”
3. A supporting letter or recommendationThis could be from:
   • Occupational Therapist
   • Psychologist
   • Speech therapist
   • Support coordinator
   • Or other allied health professional
   • The letter should explain:
   • Why the item is needed
   • How it supports your goal
   • That it’s value for money and low risk
4. A quote or product link
5. Include the brand, price, and where it’s from.
6. Confirmation you can safely use the item
7. (Especially for participants with cognitive or physical disabilities)

🧩 Case Study: Liam, 11, with Autism

Liam struggled to communicate in public. His speech therapist recommended an iPad with a communication app. With a simple letter outlining how the device would support his communication goals, his parents used Liam’s Core – Consumables budget to purchase the iPad.

Assist Providers helped:

• Draft the letter with the therapist
• Review the device options
• Submit the purchase request
• Document it for plan review

📬 How to Actually Make the Request

If you already have a plan and you’re self-managed or plan-managed:

• You may not need NDIA approval—you can go ahead if it’s in scope
• Just keep the supporting evidence on file for audits

If you’re NDIA-managed or unsure:

• Talk to your support coordinator or plan manager
• Submit a written request via email or during your plan review

Need help? Assist Providers can support every step of the process.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Buying before checking it’s allowed under your plan

🚫 Requesting tech that doesn’t relate to an NDIS goal

🚫 Submitting no evidence

🚫 Asking for the latest/generic tech without a clear disability link

🧰 How Assist Providers Can Help

✅ Match tech to your current plan goals

✅ Write or review supporting letters with therapists

✅ Help you choose value-for-money products

✅ Prepare documents for audit or NDIA approval

✅ Train your team on low-cost AT requests

We don’t just help you get funding—we help you use it effectively and safely.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Low-cost tech can be a powerful tool in your NDIS journey—but only when it’s done right.

Make sure your request aligns with your goals, has the right support, and fits within your plan. Done well, it’s a simple and stress-free process that can open doors to connection, confidence, and independence.

Need help requesting low-cost tech? Assist Providers can help guide your request, liaise with therapists, and handle the paperwork for you.