If the NDIS has mentioned an “assistive technology assessment”, or you are hoping to get equipment funded, it helps to understand how the process works. In plain English, an assistive technology assessment is where an occupational therapist works out which equipment will genuinely help you, and prepares the evidence the NDIS needs. This guide explains the assessment, the cost tiers, and what evidence is required.
A note on funding: an assessment supports your request but does not guarantee funding. Whether assistive technology is funded depends on your plan and a “reasonable and necessary” decision by the NDIS. Your support coordinator or planner can advise on your situation.
What is assistive technology?
Assistive technology (AT) is equipment or technology that helps you do everyday things more easily and safely, or more independently. It ranges from simple items like a modified fork or a shower stool, through to wheelchairs, pressure-care mattresses and complex communication devices.
What is an assistive technology assessment?
An AT assessment is an occupational therapy assessment that:
- looks at what you are trying to do and where you are having difficulty,
- identifies the equipment that best meets your needs,
- often includes a trial of the equipment, and
- documents the recommendation with the evidence the NDIS needs.
Getting the right AT the first time matters, and a good assessment reduces the chance of a costly mismatch. For a closer look at the evidence side, see our guide on what evidence an NDIS AT assessment needs.
The three AT cost levels
The NDIS groups assistive technology into three cost tiers, and the evidence required increases with cost and risk:
- Low-cost AT (under $1,500 per item). A formal assessment is not always required for low-risk items, but the NDIS recommends getting clinical advice to make sure the item is safe and suitable.
- Mid-cost AT ($1,500 to $15,000 per item). This usually needs a recommendation from an AT advisor, such as an occupational therapist.
- High-cost AT (over $15,000 per item). This needs a comprehensive evidence package: a detailed assessment report from an assessor, equipment quotes, and trial documentation where relevant.
The occupational therapist’s role
For mid and high-cost AT, an occupational therapist commonly acts as the AT advisor or assessor. They match the equipment to your goals, arrange trials, and write the report that links the recommendation to your disability and your daily life. The clearer that link, the smoother the decision.
A 2026 change: the I-CAN v6 tool
From mid-2026, your functional need for supports, including assistive technology, is assessed using a tool called I-CAN v6 as part of the NDIS’s new planning framework. Your occupational therapist can help you understand how this fits with your AT request.
How to get started
- Talk to your support coordinator or planner about the difficulty you are trying to solve.
- Arrange an OT assessment so the right equipment can be identified and, where needed, trialled.
- The OT prepares the report and quotes for your request.
If you are in Liverpool or Western Sydney and would like an assistive technology assessment, our team is happy to help. You can also read about our assistive technology OT service in Western Sydney.
Frequently asked questions
What is an assistive technology assessment?
It is an occupational therapy assessment that identifies the right equipment for your needs, often including a trial, and documents the evidence the NDIS needs to consider funding.
Do I always need an assessment for AT?
Not always. Low-cost, low-risk items under $1,500 may not need a formal assessment, though clinical advice is recommended. Mid and high-cost items generally do.
What are the AT cost levels?
Low-cost is under $1,500 per item, mid-cost is $1,500 to $15,000, and high-cost is over $15,000. The evidence required increases with cost and risk.
Who completes an AT assessment?
An occupational therapist commonly acts as the AT advisor or assessor for mid and high-cost items, matching equipment to your goals and preparing the report.
Sources
- NDIS, How to provide assistive technology to participants and AT risk levels, ndis.gov.au.
- Provider guidance on AT cost tiers and evidence requirements, accessed 18 July 2026.