Can You Buy a Kids Smart Watch
with NDIS Funding?
The longer answer is: it depends on your child's NDIS plan, their goals, and how you frame the request.
How NDIS Funding Categories Work
The NDIS funds supports that are "reasonable and necessary" and linked to a participant's goals. For a smart watch, the relevant funding category is typically Low Cost Assistive Technology — items under $1,500 that participants can buy directly without a quote.
At $266.95 (GL50 Regular) or $199.95 (GL30 Regular), KidsOclock watches fall comfortably within the Low Cost AT threshold. This means the purchase process is relatively straightforward compared to high-cost equipment that requires assessments and quotes.
What the NDIS Looks For
To get a smart watch approved through NDIS, you need to demonstrate that the device:
- Supports one or more goals in the child's NDIS plan
- Represents value for money relative to the benefit
- Is likely to be effective and beneficial
- Takes into account informal supports (what families already do)
Which NDIS Goals Support a Smart Watch?
The most common goals that support smart watch funding are:
- Safety and risk management — "To develop strategies to keep safe in the community"
- Community participation — "To access community activities independently"
- Daily living skills — "To develop independence in daily routines"
- Communication — "To communicate needs effectively in various settings"
If your child's plan does not include relevant goals, you may need to request a plan review before the smart watch can be funded.
The Documentation You Need
A letter from a registered therapist or medical professional significantly strengthens your claim. The letter should: identify the child's diagnosis (ASD, ADHD, etc.), explain the specific safety risk the watch addresses (elopement, wandering, getting lost), link the device to a specific NDIS goal in the plan, and state that the device is the most appropriate and cost-effective solution.
Occupational therapists and psychologists are typically the most appropriate professionals to provide this letter. Paediatricians can also write supporting letters.
How to Make the Purchase
If the funding is in your child's plan under Low Cost Assistive Technology: purchase the watch directly from the supplier, pay using your own funds or NDIS card (depending on plan management type), and keep the receipt for your records. If you are plan-managed, submit the receipt to your plan manager for reimbursement. If NDIA-managed, the process may require additional approval — check with your coordinator.
What If the Request Is Denied?
If your initial request is not approved, you can: request an internal review of the decision, provide additional supporting documentation from a therapist, or add relevant goals at your next plan review and reapply.
Key Takeaways
- Yes — kids smart watches can be funded through NDIS Low Cost Assistive Technology.
- You need a supporting letter from an OT, psychologist, or paediatrician linking the device to specific NDIS goals (safety, community participation, independence).
- Purchase directly and claim reimbursement.
- If denied, request a review or add relevant goals at plan review.
