The current global fuel crisis is being felt deeply across Australia, and for NDIS participants, the impact goes far beyond the petrol pump. As transport costs surge, many participants are seeing their Core funding stretched by increased support worker travel fees and expensive accessible transport services.
To adapt to these changes, many allied health professionals are shifting back to Telehealth, and participants are finding themselves spending more time at home. While this reduces transport costs, it introduces new challenges: disrupted routines, reduced physical support, and the anxiety of being isolated from the community.
When external support is harder to access, your home environment needs to work harder for you. We have curated four essential Low Cost Assistive Technology (LCAT) items designed to bridge the gap, support Telehealth access, and maintain your independence at home.
4 Tools to Support Independence During Transport Disruptions
1. For Telehealth Accessibility: Adjustable Device Holders
The Challenge: Shifting Occupational Therapy, Speech Pathology, or psychology appointments to a screen can be physically and cognitively taxing. Holding a tablet or phone for 45 minutes can cause fatigue, especially for participants with fine motor or mobility challenges.
The Solution: Flexible Gooseneck Tablet & Device Holder
Why it works: This tool allows participants to position their screen at the perfect ergonomic height, completely hands-free. Whether you are in a wheelchair, sitting at a desk, or resting in bed, it removes the physical barrier to engaging with your therapist. It ensures you can focus entirely on your therapy goals, rather than struggling to balance a device.
NDIS Funding Info: Commonly claimed to support therapeutic access under Core - Consumables: 03_090000911_0103_1_1.
2. For Changing Routines: The Digital Smart Calendar
The Challenge: When support workers are delayed due to fuel shortages or appointments are suddenly switched from in-person to virtual, the sudden change in routine can be highly distressing for neurodivergent participants, particularly those with Autism or ADHD.
The Solution: Skylight Digital Visual Calendar
Why it works: A dedicated, visual routine board acts as an external brain. When a schedule changes, Support Coordinators or family members can instantly update the calendar remotely. The visual interface helps participants process the "new plan" for the day, reducing anxiety and preventing meltdowns caused by unexpected transitions.
NDIS Funding Info: Generally compliant with Low Cost AT - Communication Or Cognitive Support (03_222100911_0124_1_1) or Core Consumables.
3. For Emotional Regulation: Handheld Calming Devices
The Challenge: Being stuck at home due to transport limitations can lead to feelings of isolation, under-stimulation, or severe anxiety. "Cabin fever" can quickly escalate into sensory dysregulation.
The Solution: Tactile Calming Handheld Device
Why it works: Having a discreet, physical tool to hold provides instant grounding. Tactile and proprioceptive input can help the nervous system self-regulate by releasing built-up restless energy. Many users find relief from anxiety by keeping one of these tools nearby during stressful Telehealth sessions or when community access is cancelled.
NDIS Funding Info: Often claimed under Core - Consumables: 03_090000911_0103_1_1.
4. For Physical Independence: Long-Handled Reachers
The Challenge: If a support worker's shift is shortened to accommodate rising travel costs, participants may need to perform more daily living tasks—such as reaching items from shelves, picking up dropped items, or getting dressed—without physical assistance.
The Solution: Ergonomic Long-Handled Reaching Tool
Why it works: A lightweight, easy-grip reacher restores autonomy. It prevents the need to bend, stretch, or strain, reducing the risk of falls for those with mobility impairments. It is a simple mechanism that ensures participants can safely manage their own home environment while waiting for formal supports.
NDIS Funding Info: Recognized under Low Cost AT - Personal Care & Safety (03_090000911_0103_1_1).
How to Buy Using Your NDIS Plan
We make it easy to access the tools you need to maintain your independence, even when the world outside feels unpredictable.
Option 1: Plan Managed Participants
Need an invoice to send to your Plan Manager? Add your items to the cart and select 'NDIS Checkout' in the cart. We will instantly email you a fully compliant tax invoice with the correct NDIS codes for quick approval.
Option 2: Self Managed Participants
Self-Managed? Buy online today using your preferred payment method or NDIS Checkout and receive an instant tax invoice for your NDIS portal claim. We ship fast via Australian couriers so your supports arrive when you need them.
Option 3: Agency (NDIA) Managed Participants
Agency-Managed? Let us handle the portal paperwork for you. Because we are an NDIS-Registered Provider, we can claim the funds directly from the NDIA on your behalf.
- Add your essential items to the cart.
- Proceed to checkout and select "NDIS Checkout".
- Fill out the secure form with your NDIS number and date of birth. Our dedicated NDIS team will lodge the claim directly via the NDIA portal.
Once the NDIA approves the claim, we will securely pack and ship your order straight to your door!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can NDIS funding cover Assistive Technology for Telehealth appointments?
Yes. If your therapy sessions have moved online due to transport costs or the fuel crisis, Low Cost Assistive Technology (like tablet holders or adaptive styluses) can generally be claimed if they are reasonable and necessary for you to access your funded Telehealth supports.
How does the fuel crisis affect NDIS participants?
Rising fuel prices increase the cost of accessible transport and support worker travel fees, rapidly depleting Core budgets. This often results in participants spending more time at home, highlighting the need for at-home capacity building tools and sensory regulation aids.
What NDIS code is used for sensory regulation tools?
Sensory tools designed to manage anxiety and support emotional regulation are commonly claimed as Low Cost Assistive Technology under Core - Consumables, using the NDIS item code 03_090000911_0103_1_1.
Can I claim a visual calendar if my routine is disrupted?
Yes. For neurodivergent participants who experience distress due to sudden routine changes (like cancelled support worker shifts), a digital visual calendar can be claimed as a Cognitive Support to manage executive function and reduce anxiety.
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