The following information is to provide you with examples of what the NDIS may fund. It’s important to note that this is only a guide to assist you make an informed decision. Only your My NDIS Contact, an NDIS Delegate, or the explicit written information in a current NDIS plan serves as the source of truth. The NDIS considers requests based on whether the support is related to your disability and whether it meets the NDIS Reasonable and Necessary Guidelines
What is Communication & Information Equipment?
Communication and information equipment refers to assistive technology and products that help a participant:
- Receive, send, produce, and/or process information in different forms.
- Communicate using language, signs, symbols, or devices.
- Use communication techniques that promote independence in daily life.
This may include devices, applications, and systems designed to enhance communication, organisation, and access to information.
Sometimes Funded by the NDIS
| Examples of Supports | Key Information |
|---|---|
| Assistive Communication Devices & Apps |
⚠️ Devices to support communication or information processing will most likely require inclusion within an NDIS plan or written consent from your My NDIS Contact to confirm the disability-related need. Examples include speech generating devices and smart calendars, such as, Nelli and Skylight. ⚠️ Supports which may be funded, however require a Replacement Support application include smart watches, iPad and tablet devices, smartphones and an app for accessibility or communication. |
| Electronic Devices for Disability Access |
⚠️ Devices to support access will most likely require inclusion within an NDIS plan or written consent from your My NDIS Contact to confirm the disability-related need. Examples include laptops or computers ⚠️ Supports which may be funded, however require a Replacement Support application include smart watches (includes Apple Watch, Fitbits), iPad and tablet devices, smartphones (KISA phone), an app for accessibility, noise cancelling headphones. |
| Assessment, Setup and Training | ⚠️ Services to assess, prescribe, deliver, set up, and train the participant in the successful use of communication equipment. |
| Maintenance, Repairs & Consumables | ⚠️ Funding may be available for ongoing maintenance, repairs, and consumables related to NDIS-funded communication equipment. |
Note: Funding is usually considered where the equipment is reasonable and necessary to meet the participant's disability support needs.
Requires NDIS Approval
Some higher-cost or complex items usually require:
- Written approval from My NDIS Contact or NDIS Delegate
- Inclusion in the participant's NDIS Plan
- Confirmed NDIS Replacement Support
This typically applies to:
- Higher-cost electronic devices
- Specialist communication apps
- Replacements of previously funded devices
NDIS Price Guide & AT Guidance:
Refer to the official NDIS Pricing Arrangements:
👉 NDIS Pricing Arrangements
👉 Assistive Technology Explained
Not Funded by the NDIS
The following are generally not funded by the NDIS as they are considered:
- Everyday living expenses
- Education-related costs
- Non-disability specific items
| Examples of Not Funded Items | Reason |
|---|---|
| ❌ Internet devices (modems, routers) | Everyday technology, not disability-specific |
| ❌ Landline phones, standard mobile phones, and standard accessories | Considered personal or mainstream technology |
| ❌ Internet, landline, mobile phone plans, and data costs | General living expenses |
| ❌ Standard computers, gaming consoles, and subscriptions | Not considered reasonable and necessary for disability-related communication |
| ❌ Textbooks, general education aids, or modifications to educational campuses | Education costs fall outside NDIS responsibility |
Additional NDIS Resources
For further guidance, you can refer to:
✅ Summary
- NDIS may fund communication and information equipment where it is directly related to the participant’s disability and helps them achieve their goals.
- Some items require NDIS approval or specific inclusion in the plan.
- Mainstream devices, everyday tech, and education-specific supports are not funded.