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.

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LowCost AT

Wooden Braille Alphabet & Number Board | NDIS Tactile Literacy Aid

$57.99

Liquid error (snippets/price line 89): divided by 0% OFF

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Tactile Braille Literacy: Features carved dot patterns alongside visual letters, helping users associate the shape of the alphabet with its Braille equivalent.
Develops Finger Sensitivity: Tracing the dots improves tactile discrimination and fine motor control, which are essential pre-requisites for reading standard Braille.
Inclusive Learning Tool: Ideal for sighted family members, peers, and educators to learn the basics of Braille, promoting communication and social inclusion.
Durable & Sensory Friendly: Crafted from smooth, natural wood, offering a calming tactile experience that is durable enough for daily classroom or home use.
Portable Reference: Compact 22x16cm size makes it an easy-to-carry reference guide for students transitioning to literacy activities in different environments.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_220300911_0113_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Low Cost AT - Vision Related AT

Category: ["Category 03: Consumables"]

Our products are curated to support a range of disability-related needs and to assist participants to pursue their individual NDIS goals, in line with the principles of choice and control.

The term “NDIS Claims Ready” refers to our documentation and invoicing process, which is designed to support participants, nominees, support coordinators and plan managers when submitting a claim.

Important: It does not guarantee funding. Whether an item is funded depends on the participant’s disability-related needs, their approved plan and goals, and whether the item is considered reasonable and necessary by the NDIA or the participant’s Plan Manager.

View our full NDIS Claim Information Guide →

View full details

Frequently Bought Together

Discover the language of touch with the Wooden Braille Alphabet Board . This beautifully crafted Montessori-inspired teaching aid is a valuable piece of low-cost assistive technology designed to support NDIS participants with visual impairments, sensory processing needs, or those learning Braille for inclusive communication.

For children with low vision or blindness, developing tactile discrimination (the ability to feel small differences in texture and shape) is a critical pre-Braille skill. This board features the alphabet and numbers with both the visual character and the corresponding carved Braille dot pattern . It provides a solid, durable surface for fingers to trace and memorize the cell configurations, laying the foundation for future literacy.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Pre-Braille Literacy: It introduces the concept of the 6-dot Braille cell in a larger, more distinct format than standard paper Braille. This scaffolding helps beginners understand the spatial relationships of the dots before moving to smaller, standard Braille.

Fine Motor & Sensory Development: Tracing the carved dots requires finger isolation and tactile sensitivity. This strengthens the fine motor skills needed for reading standard Braille, using technology, or performing delicate daily living tasks.

Inclusive Education: This board is an excellent tool for sighted siblings, classmates, or support workers to learn Braille alongside the participant. It bridges the communication gap and fosters social inclusion.

Cognitive Mapping: By pairing the visual letter with the tactile pattern, it supports dual-media learners (those who use both print and Braille) to connect the two concepts cognitively.

Key Features & Benefits

Tactile Learning Experience: Features carved/engraved dots that provide distinct sensory feedback, differentiating them from the smooth wood surface.
Durable Wooden Construction: Made from high-quality, smooth wood that is pleasant to touch and withstands frequent use in classrooms or therapy settings.
Compact & Portable: Measuring 22 x 16 cm, it is easy to transport between home, school, and therapy sessions.
Complete Alphanumeric Set: Includes the full A-Z alphabet and numbers 1-9, providing a comprehensive reference tool.
Montessori Design: Encourages self-directed learning and exploration, suitable for early childhood intervention.

Meticulous Specifications

Product Type: Braille Learning Board
Material: Natural Wood
Dimensions: 22 cm x 16 cm x 0.8 cm (approx.)
Markings: Carved/Engraved Dots & Visual Letters
Content: Alphabet A-Z, Numbers 1-9
Target Audience: Visual Impairment, Sighted Learners, Sensory Needs
Style: Montessori / Fingerboard

Package Includes

1 x Wooden Braille Alphabet & Number Board

NDIS CLAIMS READY

Funding & Eligibility

This product is designed to support daily living goals and is generally compliant with Core - Consumables funding.

Support Item Name: Low Cost AT - Vision Related AT
Support Item Number: 03_220300911_0113_1_1
Budget Category: Core - Consumables

How to Order:

Plan Managed: Add to cart and select "NDIS Checkout". This generates a formal tax invoice for your Plan Manager to pay via email.
Self Managed: Purchase online for an instant tax invoice, or use "NDIS Checkout" if you prefer an invoice to upload to the MyPlace portal before paying.
NDIA (Agency) Managed: Use the "NDIS Checkout" to generate a quote. We will then arrange a service booking (endorsement might be required).

*Participant's funding eligibility is subject to their individual NDIS plan goals.

The Wooden Braille Alphabet Board is a specialized educational capacity building resource. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who experience functional limitations in vision and require tactile methods for literacy and communication.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This resource directly supports NDIS goals related to early childhood intervention, education, and social inclusion by:

Building Literacy Skills: It provides the foundational knowledge of the Braille code, which is the primary literacy medium for individuals who are blind or have severe low vision.

Enhancing Fine Motor Skills: The physical tracking required to use the board strengthens the finger muscles and tactile sensitivity needed for functional daily tasks.

Promoting Inclusion: It serves as a bridge for sighted peers and family to understand the participant's mode of communication, reducing social barriers.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money core support. It is a low-cost, durable educational tool that supports essential skill acquisition (literacy) in a way that standard print materials cannot.

Some products are shipped through authorised logistics partners, including Amazon. Your purchase is always with LowCost AT, and we remain your responsible Australian supplier and NDIS registered provider.

Assistive Benefit: Tactile board for learning Braille alphabet & numbers; builds finger sensitivity.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Therapy Resource.

Material: Wood.

Size: 22x16cm. Style: Carved Dots.

Wooden Braille Alphabet & Number Board | NDIS Tactile Literacy Aid