Noise-cancelling headphones and similar items can be beneficial for individuals with sensory sensitivities, particularly those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing challenges to improve participation. This may be a support which the NDIS may fund under certain circumstances. The following information is provided for you to assist you with your decision-making.
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 Typically Funded?
The NDIS may fund low-cost, low-risk assistive technology (AT) consumables that help with participation or safety, provided they are:
- Low-cost (generally under $50)
- Purpose-specific (e.g., sensory regulation or noise reduction, not for entertainment)
- Non-electronic or do not play music
Examples of Funded Supports:
| Item | Criteria |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ear Muffs (non-electronic) | Purpose: Noise reduction; no music functionality; cost under $50 |
| ✅ Loop Earplugs | Small, discrete earplugs designed for sensory regulation |
| ✅ Basic Noise Reduction Items | Simple aids that reduce environmental noise without additional features |
Good to Process Support:
These supports can usually be processed if:
- They fall under low-cost consumables
- The participant agrees to the Funding Criteria (outlined below)
🔗 NDIS: Low Cost Assistive Technology
What is Not Typically Funded?
The NDIS generally does not fund supports that are:
- Primarily for entertainment or leisure
- Used by the general public without disability-specific benefit
- High-cost or multi-functional without clear disability support purpose
Examples of Excluded Supports:
| Item | Reason for Exclusion |
|---|---|
| ❌ Standard music-playing headphones | Entertainment item; not disability-specific |
| ❌ AirPods / wireless headphones | General consumer electronics; primarily for leisure or communication |
| ❌ Sleep headphones | Typically not considered a disability-specific need |
Funded Supports - NDIS Exceptions
In some cases, participants may seek NDIS approval for a Replacement Support if they wish to use an alternative item instead of an already funded NDIS support, this may include noise cancelling headphones which generate music.
Replacement Support Application:
- Must align with the functional goals in the NDIS plan
- Must be approved in writing by the NDIS before purchase
- The new support replaces, rather than adds to, existing supports
🔗 NDIS: Application for Replacement Support
Summary Table
| Support Type | Funded? | NDIS Approval Needed? | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic ear muffs/Loop earplugs (under $50) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Must meet low-cost, low-risk, and disability relevance. Contact your Plan Manager |
| Noise-cancelling headphones (over $50) | 🔄 Possibly | ✅ Yes | Replacement Support or Assistive Tech if approved |
| Music headphones, Airpods, sleep devices | ❌ No | ✅ Only via Replacement | Not typically within scope without strong justification |
Funding Criteria for Low Cost Supports
For the NDIS to consider the item reasonable and necessary:
- It must relate to the participant’s disability needs
- Represent value for money
- Be effective and beneficial
- Not be more appropriately funded by another service or scheme
- Be low-risk and low-cost
Important Notes:
- The NDIS is the appropriate authority for guidance on funding decisions and approval processes.
🔗 NDIS Reasonable & Necessary Guidelines
🔗 NDIS Consumables Operational Guidelines
If you’d like help applying for a Replacement Support, or would like to discuss your options further, we recommend contacting the NDIS directly on 1800 800 110 or visiting ndis.gov.au.