NDIS Information Updated: August 2025
What is Mid-Cost Assistive Technology?
Mid-cost assistive technology items are valued between $1,500 and $15,000 per item. Handyscoot mobility scooters typically fall within this category, making them eligible for NDIS funding under specific conditions.
Key Changes to NDIS AT Funding (March 2022 Updates)
✅ No quotes required for assistive technology items under $15,000
✅ Faster approval process – decisions within 28 days for mid-cost items
✅ Streamlined evidence requirements – written advice from qualified advisors sufficient
✅ Important: From October 2024, new NDIS legislation defines what qualifies as “NDIS supports”
NDIS Funding Criteria for Handyscoot
Your Handyscoot must meet all four NDIS funding criteria:
1. Relates to Your Disability
- The mobility scooter must help you do things you can’t do because of your disability
- It should reduce your need for other supports or help from others
- Must make activities easier, safer, or more independent
2. Right for You
- Helps you pursue your NDIS goals (e.g., community participation, independence)
- Safe for your use and meets Australian safety standards
- Works in all environments where you need to use it
- Assessed as the most appropriate solution for your mobility needs
3. Value for Money
- Provides long-term benefits over many years
- Compared against less expensive mobility options
- Considers maintenance, repair costs, and lifespan
- May include rental costs if temporary use is more appropriate
4. Not Funded Elsewhere
- NDIS won’t fund if another organization should provide it
- Not covered by health departments, workplace modifications, or other schemes
What Evidence Do You Need?
Written Evidence Required (For items $1,500-$15,000)
You need a letter, email, or report from a qualified assistive technology advisor that includes:
- The specific Handyscoot model you need
- Why it’s the best value compared to other mobility options
- How it will help with your disability support needs
- How it supports your NDIS plan goals
- Estimated cost of the mobility scooter
Qualified Assistive Technology Advisors
✅ Occupational Therapists
✅ Physiotherapists
✅ GP or Medical Specialist
✅ Assistive Technology Mentors
✅ Rehabilitation Engineers
✅ Other qualified health practitioners
What You DON’T Need for Mid-Cost AT
❌ No formal assessment required (unlike high-cost items)
❌ No quotes needed (NDIS removed this requirement)
❌ No multiple provider comparisons mandatory
How Mid-Cost AT Appears in Your Plan
Your NDIS plan will show:
- Capital budget section with broad category funding
- Price range (e.g., “Mobility device $3,000 to $8,000”)
- Flexible funding allowing you to shop around for best value
- Note requiring written advice before purchase
Important Legislative Changes (October 2024)
⚠️ New NDIS Support Lists: From October 3, 2024, NDIS funding can only be used for items on the official “NDIS supports” list
⚠️ Claims Timeframe: Providers must submit claims within 2 years of service delivery
⚠️ Clearer Funding Rules: More specific guidelines on what can and cannot be funded
Handyscoot mobility scooters remain eligible as assistive technology under these new rules
Before You Buy Your Handyscoot
- Get written advice from your AT advisor confirming the specific model
- Ensure the advisor confirms it’s right for your needs
- For higher-risk items: Get setup and safety training advice
- Keep all documentation for your records
Risk Classification:
Most mobility scooters are considered higher-risk assistive technology requiring:
- Professional advice for model selection
- Setup and training recommendations
- Safety considerations assessment
Using Your NDIS Funding
Plan Management Options:
- Agency Managed: Purchase from NDIS registered providers only
- Plan/Self Managed: Choose any supplier, including Handyscoot directly
Flexible Spending:
- Shop around for best value within your approved price range
- Can contribute your own money for premium features not related to disability needs
- Funding includes delivery and basic setup costs
Additional Costs NDIS Will Fund
✅ Delivery and Setup: Transport to your home and basic installation
✅ Training: Learning to use your Handyscoot safely
✅ Maintenance and Repairs: Ongoing servicing and unexpected repairs
✅ Insurance: If specifically related to disability needs
If You Need More Funding
If your circumstances change or you need a different mobility solution:
- Check existing plan flexibility first
- Request plan reassessment if needs have changed
- Provide updated evidence from your AT advisor
- Consider rental options for temporary needs
Replacement Policy
NDIS will fund Handyscoot replacement when:
- Current scooter no longer works or keeps breaking down
- Becomes dangerous to use
- Your mobility needs change due to condition progression
- Previous scooter was NDIS-funded and you have proof of purchase
Quick Tips for Success
🎯 Be Specific: Request exact Handyscoot model in advisor recommendations
🎯 Link to Goals: Clearly connect mobility needs to NDIS plan goals
🎯 Document Everything: Keep all advice, quotes, and communications
🎯 Plan Timing: Allow 28 days for NDIS decision processing
🎯 Consider Total Cost: Factor in ongoing maintenance and battery replacement
Contact Support
NDIS Enquiries: enquiries@ndis.gov.au
Plan Changes: Contact your NDIS planner or LAC
Urgent Issues: NDIS National Contact Centre
References and Sources
This guide is compiled from official NDIS documentation and current guidelines:
Primary Sources:
- NDIS Assistive Technology Guidelines (December 2023)
Assistive Technology (equipment, technology and devices)
Available at: ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au
- NDIS Assistive Technology Explained (Current)
URL: https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/assistive-technology-explained
- NDIS Funding Improvements Transcript (March 2022)
“We’ve improved the way we fund assistive technology”
- NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 (Effective July 1, 2025)
Available at: https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/pricing-arrangements
- Changes to NDIS Legislation (October 2024)
URL: https://www.ndis.gov.au/changes-ndis-legislation
Key NDIS Legal Framework:
- NDIS Act 2013, Section 34(1) – Funding Criteria
- NDIS Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024
- NDIS (Supports for Participants) Rules – various sections
- NDIS Participant Service Guarantee – Decision timeframes
Additional Resources:
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) – Product risk classifications
- Australian Consumer Law – Product quality and warranty rights
- NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission – Safety standards
Contact Information:
- NDIS General Enquiries: enquiries@ndis.gov.au
- NDIS Website: ndis.gov.au
- NDIS Guidelines: ourguidelines.ndis.gov.au
This information is based on current NDIS guidelines and legislation as of August 2025. NDIS policies are subject to change – always verify current requirements with NDIS directly. The major funding improvements for assistive technology were implemented in March 2022, with additional legislative changes in October 2024.
