How to Claim Mobility Equipment Through Your NDIS Plan —  A Complete Guide (2026)

The right mobility equipment can make a real difference to everyday life, helping people with disability stay independent, safe, and active. Whether you need a manual wheelchair, powered wheelchair, mobility scooter, walking frame, transfer aid, or other assistive technology, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) may help cover the cost. If the equipment is considered reasonable and necessary to support your disability-related needs, it may be funded through your NDIS plan, making it easier to access the support you need to live more confidently and independently. 

However, claiming mobility equipment through the NDIS involves more than simply purchasing an item. Understanding the funding rules before you apply can help you avoid unnecessary delays and improve your chances of approval. 

Types of NDIS Plan Management and How They Affect Claims 

The process for purchasing NDIS-funded mobility equipment depends on how your plan is managed. Each option gives you different levels of choice and support. 

1. Self-Managed Participants

If you self-manage your NDIS plan, you can:

• Choose your preferred suppliers.
• Pay invoices directly to suppliers.
• Claim reimbursement through the NDIS portal.

2. Plan-Managed Participants

If your plan is plan-managed, your plan manager can:

• Process supplier invoices on your behalf.
• Arrange payments to suppliers.
• Help you manage your Assistive Technology (AT) budget.

3. NDIA-Managed Participants

If your plan is NDIA-managed, you generally need to purchase mobility equipment from registered NDIS providers. This ensures the provider can claim payments directly through the NDIS system.

NDIS Mobility Equipment Categories

The NDIS classifies mobility equipment and assistive technology (AT) into different cost levels. The level of funding and assessment required usually depends on the complexity, risk, and cost of the equipment.

1. Low-Cost Assistive Technology (AT)

Low-cost mobility aids are generally simple products that support everyday movement and independence. These items usually require minimal assessment compared with more complex equipment.

Examples

• Walking sticks
• Basic walkers or walking frames
• Simple pressure cushions

2. Mid-Cost Assistive Technology (AT)

Mid-cost equipment often requires more detailed assessment to ensure it is suitable for your mobility needs and daily activities.

Examples

• Standard manual wheelchairs
• Mobility scooters
• Specialist seating solutions

You may need:

• An Occupational Therapist (OT) assessment
• Supplier quotes
• Evidence explaining why the equipment is suitable for your needs

3. High-Cost Assistive Technology (AT)

High-cost mobility equipment is generally more complex and customised to meet significant mobility or support requirements.

Examples

• Powered wheelchairs
• Custom seating systems
• Complex mobility systems

These requests usually require:

• A detailed OT assessment
• Equipment trials
• Specialist recommendations
• Multiple supplier quotes

NDIS Funding Eligibility Criteria 

To access NDIS funding for mobility equipment, you must first be an eligible NDIS participant. In addition, both you and the equipment you’re requesting must meet the NDIS funding criteria. 

• You must be under 65 years of age at the time of applying.
• You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa.
• Your disability must be permanent or likely to be permanent.
• The mobility equipment must directly relate to your disability and support your everyday needs.
• The support must not be more appropriately funded by another Australian government service or program.

Evidence and Assessments Required For NDIS Mobility Equipment Funding

Strong supporting evidence plays a crucial role in a successful NDIS mobility equipment claim. The more clearly you can demonstrate your need for the equipment, the easier it is for the NDIA to assess your application. Depending on the type and cost of the equipment you’re requesting, you may be asked to provide: 

• An Occupational Therapist (OT) assessment.
• A physiotherapist assessment.
• A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA).
• Clinical or medical specialist reports.
• Product trial or equipment assessment reports.
• Quotes from approved mobility equipment suppliers.
• Clinical justification explaining why the equipment is needed.
• A risk assessment, where required.
• Evidence showing how the equipment will improve your independence, safety, and daily participation.

Step-by-Step Mobility Equipment Claiming Process Through NDIS

Step 1: Understand Your Needs

Talk to your support co-ordinator, occupational therapist, physiotherapist or health care professional about your mobility issues.

Step 2: Get a Professional Assessment

An allied health professional will assess your mobility, daily activities and long-term needs and recommend suitable equipment.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

Collect all the necessary paperwork such as:

• Assessment reports 
• Disease evidence
• Quotes 
• Product Suggestions
• Letters of support if required

Step 4: Check your NDIS Plan

Check your current NDIS plan to see if you have funding for Assistive Technology (AT) or mobility equipment. If you are not sure, then talk to your support coordinator or plan manager. 

Step 5: Send the request

If approval is required, submit the documentation to the NDIA before buying the equipment.

Step 6: Wait for the NDIA Decision

The NDIA will assess your request against the reasonable and necessary funding criteria, taking into account your plan, supporting evidence, and individual needs. 

Step 7: Purchase Your Mobility Equipment

Once your funding is approved, you can purchase the equipment through your NDIS plan management arrangement.

Common Mistakes That Can Delay or Lead to an NDIS Claim Rejection

Many NDIS mobility equipment claims are delayed or declined because important requirements are missed or supporting evidence is incomplete. Avoiding these common mistakes can improve your chances of a smoother approval process.

• Submitting incomplete or insufficient assessment reports.
• Providing outdated medical or clinical evidence.
• Requesting equipment that doesn’t directly support your disability-related needs or NDIS goals.
• Choosing equipment based on personal preference rather than clinical recommendations.
• Failing to include supplier quotes or other required documentation.
• Not explaining why a lower-cost or standard option isn’t suitable for your needs.

How Long Does the NDIS Approval Process Take?

Getting an NDIS mobility equipment request approved can take anywhere from a few days to several week depending on how complex your application is, how good your supporting evidence is and if the NDIA needs any more information. A comprehensive documentation at the outset is likely to avoid delays and enable a smoother assessment process.

What Should I Do If My NDIS Claim Is Declined?

If your request is not approved, do not panic. If you think the decision should be reviewed you can ask the NDIA to explain the decision, give more supporting evidence or ask for a review. Incorporating recent assessments or clinical reports with your application could improve the chances of a successful outcome.