Assistive technology in Melbourne, Victoria

Assistive technology costs in Melbourne range from low-cost daily living aids under $50 to complex equipment such as power wheelchairs and ceiling hoists costing tens of thousands of dollars. The cost depends on the type of equipment, whether you hire or purchase, and whether you access funded or private supply.

For hire arrangements, daily rates typically start from around $15 per day for simple mobility aids such as shower chairs or walkers. Weekly hire rates for standard equipment start from around $50. Monthly hire is more cost-effective for longer-term needs, and many providers offer a hire-to-purchase pathway.

For outright purchase, low-cost AT items such as reachers, dressing aids, and non-slip mats can be purchased for under $100. Mid-range items such as shower commodes, adjustable beds, and manual wheelchairs typically range from $500 to $3,000. High-cost items such as power wheelchairs, standing frames, and complex communication devices can exceed $10,000 and require NDIS prior approval.

Funded AT requires an OT assessment and written recommendation in most cases. The NDIS and Home Care Packages cover a wide range of AT items, but the specific items funded depend on the assessment outcome and whether the item is considered reasonable and necessary.

Assistive technology in Melbourne can be funded through several programs. The right pathway depends on your eligibility, the type of equipment, and the cost of the item.

NDIS Assistive Technology: NDIS participants can access AT funding under Capital Supports in their plan. Low-cost AT items (under $1,500 per item) can generally be purchased from Core Supports or from a dedicated low-cost AT budget without requiring a formal assessment, though a reasonable need must be identifiable. Mid and high-cost AT items require an OT or AT assessor recommendation and, for high-cost items, prior NDIA approval. NDIS AT funding can be used for both hire and purchase. Self-managed participants have the most flexibility in choosing suppliers.

Home Care Packages (HCP): HCP holders can use their package budget to hire or purchase AT items relevant to their care goals. Items must be approved by the package provider. Major or high-cost items may require supplementary funding. The package coordinator manages the purchasing process.

Private payment: All providers accept private payment. This is straightforward for lower-cost items and avoids the need for a formal funding approval process. Some providers offer pensioner discounts or payment plans for larger purchases.

Hospital discharge programs: People leaving hospital may access short-term AT loan programs through the hospital or a community rehabilitation program. These are typically time-limited and transition to a funded or private arrangement once the short-term period ends.

Assistive technology providers in Melbourne supply, fit, and support a range of equipment designed to help people with disability or age-related functional decline maintain independence, safety, and participation in daily life.

For funded AT, the process usually begins with an OT or AT assessor recommending specific items based on an assessment of your functional needs and goals. The assessor will often recommend trialling equipment before purchase to ensure it meets your needs. Providers can arrange trials of most equipment.

Once a recommendation is made and funding is confirmed, the provider orders or picks the equipment, configures it to your requirements, and delivers it to your home. Complex equipment such as power wheelchairs or adjustable seating systems will require a fitting session, during which the provider makes adjustments to ensure safe and comfortable use.

Providers are also responsible for repairs and maintenance on equipment they supply under NDIS or HCP arrangements. If equipment breaks down or stops functioning correctly, contact your provider to arrange repair or a loan replacement.

When choosing a provider, check that they carry the product range that covers your specific needs, that they employ or have access to qualified AT assessors and technicians, and that they are familiar with the funding pathway relevant to you. A good AT provider will work alongside your OT rather than substituting for clinical advice.