NDIS Support Explained: Claiming Consumables and Low-Cost Assistive Technology

Written By Admin FSTS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers crucial support for disability-related needs—particularly through consumables and low-cost assistive technology (AT). With new support lists introduced in October 2024, there's been a wave of confusion about what's fundable, the evidence required, and how to claim effectively. This guide cuts through the uncertainty and empowers you with clarity and confidence.

What Are Consumables and Assistive Technology (AT)? 

Consumables are everyday, low-cost items essential for daily living, personal care, safety, or independence—directly linked to your disability. Examples include:

  • Continence products (pads, disposable catheters)

  • Enteral feeding supplies

  • Low-cost AT (under $1,500)

  • AUSLAN interpreting

  • Other personal care, communication, mobility, wound care items

Key eligibility: To be funded, items must be reasonable and necessary, directly related to your disability, and approved as NDIS supports.

Assistive Technology is equipment or devices that help you do things you can’t do because of your disability. They may also help you do something more easily or safely.

Low-cost Assistive Technology (AT)

AT items under $1,500 are considered "low-cost" and can typically be claimed through your Core – Consumables budget, offering more flexibility.

AT Risk Categories:

  • Low-risk AT: unlikely to cause harm in day-to-day life, available for trial and/or can be purchased in retail stores, easy to set up and safely use without professional advice.

  • High-risk AT: complex (e.g. power wheelchair), used for a restrictive practice, could cause harm if misused—requires written advice from a qualified AT advisor (e.g., GP, allied health professional, or AT assessor) even if cost is under $1,500. 

What the NDIS Won’t Fund 

Common exclusions include:

  • Standard household items, appliances, furniture, general groceries or cleaning products

  • Standard computers, consoles, clothing, footwear, or toys

"Standard" means products not customized to address disability-specific needs.

What Evidence Do You Need? 

  • Continence supports: Quotes may be requested; for children under five, nappies and related items are only funded with clear disability-related needs.

  • Enteral feeding supplies: Requires evidence showing they support your disability and are cost-effective.

  • Low-cost AT:

    • Low-risk: Advice from an AT advisor is recommended

    • High-risk: Mandatory written advice from an AT advisor required

Gray Areas & Decision-Making Checklist

When deciding whether an item can be claimed, ask yourself:

  1. Is it on the NDIS list of approved supports?

  2. Is it excluded from funding?

  3. Is it directly related to my disability?

  4. Is it funded by another system (e.g., health or education)?

  5. Do I have enough budget left in my plan?

If you’re unsure, check with your support coordinator or NDIS contact before making a purchase

Sensory Equipment: A Special Consideration

Many families ask about funding for sensory items. The NDIS may cover low-cost sensory tools such as:

  • Fidget toys

  • Pencil grips

  • Wobble cushions

However, larger or higher-risk sensory items (e.g., swings, weighted blankets, body socks) often require an occupational therapist’s assessment and prescription

Example Items Commonly Covered

Some examples of consumables and low-cost AT you may be able to claim include:

  • Jar openers, kettle tippers, or talking buttons

  • Catheters, wound care products, or absorbent continence items

  • Feeding tubes and associated supplies

  • Interpreting services (AUSLAN, video interpreting)

  • Modified eating aids or small sensory tools

Top Tips for Managing Your Budget

  • Track spending to make your consumables budget last through the plan period.

  • Use plan managers or consider self-management for flexibility.

  • Even if funding isn't specified, low-risk items under $1,500 may still be claimable under Core – provided they meet NDIS tests.

Conclusion

Understanding how consumables and low-cost AT work under the NDIS helps you make the most of your plan. Remember:

  • Consumables cover everyday disability-related items.

  • Low-cost AT (under $1,500) can usually be claimed through your Core budget.

  • Risk level matters—high-risk items need professional advice.

  • Always check items against NDIS criteria before buying.

By making informed choices, you can use your NDIS funding more effectively and confidently support your daily needs.

Autism support, Paediatric therapy, Early intervention, Social skills, Communication support, Sensory therapy, Child development 

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References

Admin FSTS
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