Does Eastham mean any AT claim where the s 24 impairment is mentioned will succeed?

No. The decision clarifies the standard. That is, that contributory causation rather than sole or dominant causation, but the causal connection must still be genuine. Delegates and the Tribunal assess each case on its facts. Weak or poorly documented claims will still fail. What the decision removes is the NDIA’s ability to rely on the existence of a second contributing factor to defeat an otherwise well-grounded claim.

Does this apply to low-cost AT, not just expensive items like mobility scooters?

The court’s ruling on s 34(1)(aa) — the contributory causation standard — is not limited to high-value items. It is a general interpretation of the statutory test that applies to any support claim under that provision.

My AT looks like something anyone could buy. Does Eastham help?

Potentially, but with an important nuance. The court confirmed that items are characterised by their inherent design character, not by participant-specific use. However, for items facing objection under the “everyday items” or “general living costs” exclusions (rather than items 6(b) and 6(f) addressed in Eastham), different provisions apply. The documentation approach remains the same: demonstrate the item’s specific functional purpose for this participant.

Will this decision change what the NDIA does at first review stage?

Not immediately. The NDIA has not updated its operational guidance. Delegates may continue applying the old approach until guidelines are updated. The decision’s practical value is greatest in review and Tribunal proceedings — which is why building strong documentation from the outset matters.

What is the difference between the Transitional Rules and the permanent rules?

The 2024 Transitional Rules are temporary instruments enacted to manage the transition to the new planning framework. They will be replaced by permanent rules. Justice Hespe’s decision interprets the test under these transitional rules. If the permanent rules are worded differently, the analysis may change.

Can the NDIS fund AT for a condition that wasn’t my access disability?

Yes — the key question is whether the AT is related to your disability support need s and meets the reasonable and necessary criteria, not whether it matches the single impairment that originally supported access. In practice, the NDIA (and the Tribunal/Court in Eastham-related reporting) focus on whether there is a real link between your impairment(s) and the functional need the AT addresses.

What evidence proves “contributory cause”?

Evidence “proves” contributory cause when it clearly shows how your impairment contributes to the functional problem the AT solves , even if other factors also contribute. The strongest evidence package usually includes: Functional evidence describing what you can’t do safely/reliably without the item (OT/physio report, FCA extracts, clinical notes). A clear “link statement” : impairment → functional impact → why this AT addresses it. Real-world context (your environment and routines), because reasonable and necessary decisions are made against your actual disability support needs , not a hypothetical situation. (Eastham-related public reporting highlights the combined impacts and practical barriers being central to the reasoning.)

Does Eastham apply to low-cost AT under $1,500?

Eastham is a legal decision about how the disability-link test is applied; the “under $1,500” threshold is an NDIA process category , not a different legal test. NDIA guidance says: Low cost AT is under $1,500 per item . For low cost AT, you can generally tell the NDIA what you need without specific written evidence , though some low-cost items that are high risk may need written evidence from an AT advisor . So: Eastham-type reasoning (disability link based on functional need) is relevant, but low-cost AT often requires less paperwork unless risk is higher .

What if the NDIA says it’s “transport” or a “general living cost”?

That’s a common refusal framing. Your job is to bring it back to the NDIA’s published test: Is it related to your disability support needs? Is it an everyday living cost not related to disability needs (e.g., groceries, rent, utilities)? If yes, it’s usually excluded. Is it actually AT/equipment that helps you function or participate , rather than paying for ordinary transport costs? If the NDIA labels it “transport”, respond by clarifying the character of the item: “This is assistive equipment to address a functional limitation and enable access, not a request to fund everyday travel costs.” (Then show the functional evidence and why alternatives aren’t workable.)

Do environmental factors like distance to public transport matter?

Yes — environment and access realities can matter because decisions must reflect your actual situation and disability support needs , not a generic assumption that “transport exists.” Public reporting about Eastham emphasises practical barriers (including access) in the reasoning pathway.

Do I need an OT letter for low-cost AT?

Not always. NDIA guidance says for low cost AT (<$1,500) you can generally tell them what you need without specific written evidence , but some low-cost items that may be high risk can require written evidence from an AT advisor . A practical rule for LowCost AT: if the item is higher risk, specialised, or likely to be challenged, an OT/AT advisor note is usually a smart defensive move — but it’s not universally mandatory for all low-cost items.

What’s the fastest way to strengthen my AT justification?

Fastest = tighten the logic chain so an NDIA delegate can say “yes” quickly: One-sentence functional problem (what fails, how often, what risk). One-sentence disability link (impairment contributes to that problem). One-sentence “why this item” (how it solves it, measurable outcome). One-sentence alternatives (what was tried / why not suitable). Cost and value (why it’s reasonable, effective, value for money). If you only add one thing: add functional evidence + a clean link statement (impairment → need → item).

What do I do if my AT request is refused?

Ask for the refusal reasons in writing and identify the exact ground (e.g., “not related to disability”, “day-to-day living cost”, “mainstream responsibility”, “value for money”). Add targeted evidence that addresses that specific ground (don’t re-submit the same pack). Request an internal review with a short, structured submission using the NDIA’s own reasonable and necessary criteria. If still refused, you can consider external merits review pathways (noting the system has changed over time); get advice for your specific circumstances.

Assistive Technology: As Easy as 1, 2, 3!

Master Your Routine: The Ultimate Skylight Calendar Setup Guide for NDIS Participants

Keeping track of therapy appointments, support worker shifts, and daily chores can be overwhelming. For many NDIS participants and busy families, visual aids are essential for maintaining independence and reducing anxiety.

Enter the Skylight Digital Calendar Range - a game-changing piece of assistive technology designed to bring clarity to your chaos. Whether you choose the versatile 15-inch Desktop model or the stunning new 27-inch Skylight Max, you are getting a dedicated "Command Centre" for your home.

Skylight Digital Calendar 15 inch for NDIS support

Skylight Calendar Max 27" | NDIS Visual Routine & Chore Hub

Whether you are managing ADHD, supporting a family member with dementia, or simply coordinating a busy support team, this guide will walk you through exactly how to set up your Skylight to maximize your NDIS funding.

Choosing the Right Model: 15-inch vs. Skylight Max

Both devices run the same powerful software, but they serve different sensory and physical needs. Here is a quick guide to help you decide which fits your plan goals.

Feature	Skylight 15-inch	Skylight Max (27-inch)
Best Placement	Kitchen counter, bedside table, or desk.	Wall-mounted (Landscape or Portrait). It looks like a framed piece of art.
Visual Accessibility	Great for personal use and standard vision.	High Definition Anti-Glare. Ideal for participants with Low Vision or those who need to see the calendar from across the room.
Ideal User	Individual participants, students, or smaller spaces.	Busy households, Shared Independent Living (SIL) homes, or users needing large-format text.

Why Choose Skylight as Assistive Technology?

Before we dive into the setup, it’s important to understand why this isn’t just a "digital photo frame." For many of our Adelaide and South Australian customers, the Skylight Calendar serves as a cognitive aid that helps with:

Executive Function: Visualizing the day ahead helps reduce the mental load of "what comes next?"
Independence: Visual reminders for medication and chores reduce the need for verbal prompting from carers.
Coordination: Syncing calendars allows Support Coordinators and family members to add appointments remotely without needing to touch the device.

Step-by-Step Skylight Calendar Setup Guide

Setting up your new device is simple. Whether you have the 15" or the Max, the software steps are identical.

1. Unbox and Position

For the 15-inch: Screw the stand into the back of the frame and plug the power adapter into a wall outlet.

For the Skylight Max: The Max comes with a flush wall mount. We recommend having a support worker or handy person assist with mounting it securely to the wall near a power source. Once mounted, plug it in!

2. Connect to Wi-Fi

To sync your calendars, the device needs the internet.

Tap the screen to see a list of available Wi-Fi networks.
Select your home network and enter the password.
Once connected, an activation code will appear on the screen. Keep this screen open!

3. Download the Skylight App

You don’t need to type on the calendar itself; everything is managed from your phone or computer.

Download the Skylight App (available on iOS and Android) or visit the Skylight website portal.
Create an account using your email address.
Tap "Activate New Device" and enter the 6-digit code displayed on your calendar screen.

4. Sync Your Calendars

This is where the magic happens. You can link existing digital calendars so they appear automatically on the frame.

In the App, go to Calendar Settings.
Select the providers you use (e.g., Google Calendar, iCloud, Outlook, Cozi).
Log in to those accounts to authorize the sync.

Pro Tip: You can sync a Support Worker’s calendar or a shared family calendar so everyone is on the same page.

5. Customize Your Categories (Chore Charts)

For NDIS participants working on capacity building, the "Chore Chart" feature is incredibly useful.

Create a list of daily tasks (e.g., "Take Morning Meds," "Pack Lunch").
Assign them to a specific user.
When the task is done, you can tick it off right on the touchscreen—giving a great sense of accomplishment!

Tips for NDIS Participants and Carers

To get the most out of this assistive technology, try these customization tips:

Color Coding: Assign a different color to each person or category (e.g., Blue for Therapy, Red for Medical, Green for Social). This makes the schedule easy to read at a glance.
Sleep Mode: Set a schedule for the screen to turn off at night so the light doesn't disturb sleep hygiene.
Photo Mode: When there are no immediate events, the Skylight doubles as a digital photo frame. Uploading photos of family or friends can be a great mood booster and help with emotional regulation.

Need Android Apps (Spotify/Tiimo)?

While the Skylight is our most popular dedicated calendar, some participants require the ability to run specific Android apps. Check out the DayNest Digital Hub for a tablet-based solution.

Is the Skylight Calendar NDIS Claimable?

Yes, for many participants, the Skylight Calendar (both the 15" and the Max) can be claimed as Assistive Technology if it is deemed reasonable and necessary to achieve your plan goals.

It typically falls under:

Core – Consumables: Low Cost Assistive Technology (03_090000911_0103_1_1).
Capital – Assistive Technology: The Skylight Max, being a larger investment, may sometimes be categorized here depending on your plan's flexibility.

Note: Always check with your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator to ensure this purchase aligns with your specific funding.

Read our full guide on How to Claim Assistive Technology through NDIS →