How to Get a GPS Tracker Funded
Through NDIS for Your Child
This step-by-step guide walks you through every stage — from checking your plan to submitting the claim.
Step 1: Review Your Child's NDIS Plan
Open the current NDIS plan and look for funding under Core Supports — Consumables or Capital — Assistive Technology. Check the total budget available. A KidsOclock GL50 at $266.95 should fall within most Low Cost AT budgets. Identify which goals in the plan relate to safety, independence, or community access.
Step 2: Speak to Your Support Coordinator
If you have a support coordinator, tell them you want to purchase a GPS watch for safety and ask which budget line item to use. They can confirm whether your plan has Low Cost AT funding and guide you on the correct process for your plan type (self-managed, plan-managed, or NDIA-managed).
Step 3: Get a Supporting Letter
Contact your child's occupational therapist, psychologist, or paediatrician. Ask them to write a letter that includes: child's full name and NDIS number, diagnosis, description of the specific risk (wandering, elopement, getting lost), explanation of how the GPS watch addresses this risk, link to NDIS goals in the plan, and statement that this is the most appropriate and cost-effective solution.
Step 4: Write a Short Statement
Write a brief statement (one page) explaining: your child's specific situation, the safety incidents that prompted this request, why a GPS watch is needed rather than cheaper alternatives, and how this will help your child achieve their NDIS goals.
Step 5: Purchase the Device
For self-managed plans: Buy the watch directly and keep the receipt. For plan-managed plans: Check with your plan manager whether they need pre-approval or if you can purchase and submit for reimbursement. For NDIA-managed plans: Your plan coordinator may need to submit the request to the NDIA before purchase.
Step 6: Submit the Claim
Self-managed: Upload the receipt to the myplace portal under the appropriate budget line. Plan-managed: Send the receipt and supporting letter to your plan manager. NDIA-managed: Work with your coordinator to submit the documentation.
Step 7: Follow Up
Track the claim status. If you do not hear back within 21 days, follow up. If denied, request a review with additional supporting documentation.
Key Takeaways
- Seven-step process: review plan, speak to coordinator, get therapist letter, write statement, purchase device, submit claim, follow up.
- Key documentation: therapist letter linking watch to NDIS goals + parent statement describing the safety need.
- Most Low Cost AT claims under $1,500 are approved with proper documentation.
