The NDIS is now funding smart devices

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way some supports are delivered. Service providers and health professionals like your local GP’s are continuing to offer virtual consultations as a measure to keep patients safe.

The NDIS has made it a little easier for you to access health, support and online learning services by allowing you to use your NDIS funding to purchase a smart device.

In NDIS speak, they are referring to these devices as “low cost assistive technology”. In real speak, it’s a basic smart device – most commonly a tablet.

In this blog, we’ve included everything you need to know about this latest change.

How do I know if I can get one?

Like anything with the NDIS, it comes down to what’s reasonable and necessary.

The smart device is necessary if:

• You need it to access disability support.
• You don’t already have a device - do you have a laptop, smartphone or tablet at home that you can access? If so, you probably won’t be eligible.
• It’s the ‘lowest specification’ necessary to get the job done - this basically means that it’s not the fanciest model, but good enough for you to access your supports.
• Is the simplest solution or device required to maintain funded supports.

The smart device is reasonable if it costs less than $600. There are a few exceptions to this rule. Maybe the device needs to have a feature that is not available on a standard tablet, or maybe your disability prevents you from using a standard tablet and you need something more specialised.

Do I need to use existing funds?

Yes, you will need to have the funding already in your plan to take advantage of this tool. The NDIA are not increasing plans to cover the cost of these devices. It’s also worth noting that they won’t do a review if all you’re looking for is a smart device.

What funding categories can I use?

Good news here – the NDIA have been quite flexible with how you can purchase a smart device. You can use your core budget, or your consumables budget.

If you don’t have enough funding in either of those you can use your capacity building funds. There has been a handy new line item in the latest NDIS Price Guide to cover this:

Low Cost AT to support Capacity Building support delivery 15_222400911_0124_1_3

It’s been done like this so you can be a bit flexible with your budget.

What is the process to get one?

1. You need a letter from a provider, confirming that the device is necessary

With this letter, you can either upload it to the portal or email it straight to the NDIS. Their address is enquiries@ndis.gov.au and the subject line should be ‘Low cost AT flexibility evidence’.

2. You will need to purchase it

The process to get a smart device is the same process to get consumables – and it all comes down to how your plan is being managed.

If you’re plan managed or self managed you can buy from any provider.

If your plan is agency managed you will need to buy through a registered provider. If you have a Support Coordinator you might be able to buy one through them, otherwise a few of the big electronics retailers are registered NDIS providers.

Can I replace an old device?

You can only replace an older device when it is no longer suitable for your needs. It does not include upgrades because a new model or version is released.

Replacements for loss or damage will follow the existing AT replacement policy.

What about internet? Will the NDIS pay that?

Unfortunately the NDIS will not cover the cost of your internet access.