Overview
Participants and providers engaging with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may sometimes require warranty or support services related to products funded under the NDIS. This guide outlines when the NDIS may consider funding warranty extensions and support services, and provides helpful links to relevant operational guidelines.
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.
Product Warranty and Support in the NDIS
Product warranty and support may be relevant when the participant’s assistive technology (AT) or equipment needs maintenance, repair, or replacement that goes beyond standard wear and tear or manufacturer defects.
What is Covered?
- ⚠️ Warranty Extensions: In some cases, the NDIS may consider funding extended warranties for assistive technology and related products, especially where this provides better value for money over the long term.
- ⚠️ AppleCare and Similar Services: Extended warranty services such as AppleCare for devices essential to disability-related needs require prior NDIS approval.
What is Not Covered?
The NDIS will not fund:
- ❌ Warranty extensions for items that are not considered reasonable and necessary under the NDIS Act.
- ❌ Non-disability-related products or general consumer electronics not linked to the participant’s disability needs.
Key Considerations
- Extended warranties must be reasonable and necessary in the context of the participant’s disability supports.
- The cost must represent value for money compared to the potential cost of repair or replacement without a warranty.
- Warranties should be linked to NDIS-funded items only.
Related NDIS Operational Guidelines and Resources:
Approval Levels:
| Approval Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Requires NDIS Approval | ⚠️ Warranty extensions, AppleCare or similar services for disability-related equipment. Requires NDIS plan inclusion or written approval. |
| Not Funded | ❌ General consumer warranties for items unrelated to disability needs. |
Summary:
- Warranty supports for NDIS participants can be funded if they relate directly to assistive technology or disability supports and meet the reasonable and necessary criteria.
- Always check for NDIS approval requirements before committing to extended warranty purchases.
👉 For further information or to confirm specific product eligibility, refer to the NDIS Operational Guidelines or contact your NDIS planner.