Low-Cost Assistive Technology Under NDIS:
What's Covered?
Many parents do not realise that items under $1,500 — including GPS watches, sensory tools, communication aids, and mobility equipment — can be purchased directly without quotes, assessments, or lengthy approval processes.
What Is Low Cost Assistive Technology?
Under NDIS guidelines, Low Cost AT refers to assistive technology items that cost less than $1,500 per item. These can be purchased by participants (or their plan nominees) directly from suppliers without requiring a formal AT assessment. The key criteria are that the item must relate to the participant's disability, support their NDIS goals, and represent value for money.
What Can Be Funded?
The NDIS does not publish an exhaustive list of approved items. Instead, it operates on a principle-based system. Items commonly funded under Low Cost AT for children include: GPS watches and personal trackers, sensory equipment (noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, fidget tools), communication aids (picture boards, simplified tablets, speech apps), daily living aids (adaptive cutlery, shower chairs, non-slip mats), and mobility equipment (walking frames for children, supportive seating).
What Cannot Be Funded?
The NDIS will not fund items that are not related to the participant's disability, that another government service should provide (e.g., standard school equipment), that represent a health or safety risk, or that are primarily for recreation rather than functional support.
A standard tablet for gaming would not be funded. A tablet with communication software for a non-verbal child would be. Context matters.
How Much Funding Is Available?
The amount varies by plan. Some plans have a dedicated Assistive Technology budget of several thousand dollars. Others allocate AT funding within Core Supports. Check your child's plan document or ask your support coordinator to confirm the available budget.
Smart Watches Specifically
GPS watches for children with autism, ADHD, or other disabilities that involve wandering, elopement, or safety risk are increasingly being funded under Low Cost AT. The NDIS recognises that these devices support goals around safety, community participation, and independence. As long as the request is linked to specific plan goals and supported by a therapist's letter, approval rates are high.
Important Notes
You do not need a formal AT assessment for items under $1,500. You can purchase from any supplier — you are not limited to NDIS-registered providers for Low Cost AT. Keep all receipts. If your plan is NDIA-managed, your coordinator may need to process the payment. If plan-managed, your plan manager handles reimbursement.
Key Takeaways
- Low Cost AT covers items under $1,500 purchased directly without formal assessments.
- GPS watches are increasingly funded for children with autism, ADHD, and safety risks.
- No NDIS-registered provider required.
- Link purchase to specific plan goals and keep supporting documentation.
- Check available budget in your child's plan.
