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

ChatterVOX NL2 Induction Neckloop | NDIS T-Coil Hearing Aid Audio

$232.99

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In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Direct T-Coil Streaming: Converts audio from devices into a magnetic signal picked up by T-Coil hearing aids, providing clear sound without headphones.
Universal 3.5mm Connection: Plugs into smartphones, tablets, computers, and MP3 players, making digital content accessible to hearing aid users.
Improves Speech Clarity: Bypasses environmental noise by delivering the audio signal directly to the ear, essential for video calls or educational content.
Works with Public Systems: Can be connected to receivers for FM or Infrared assistive listening systems in theatres or lecture halls for personal audio.
Comfortable & Lightweight: Worn loosely around the neck, it avoids the discomfort and feedback often caused by placing headphones over BTE hearing aids.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_220600911_0122_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Hearing accessory - Induction Loop

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

Bridge the gap between your devices and your hearing aids with the ChatterVOX Neckloop NL2 . This simple yet powerful piece of assistive technology transforms your T-Coil enabled hearing aids into a set of high-quality wireless headphones.

For NDIS participants with hearing loss, using standard headphones can be uncomfortable or cause feedback. The NL2 Neckloop solves this by plugging directly into any device with a standard headphone jack (like a phone, tablet, computer, or MP3 player). It then converts the audio into a magnetic signal that your hearing aid picks up clearly when switched to "T" (Telecoil) mode.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Direct Audio Streaming: By sending sound directly into the hearing aid, it bypasses background noise and room acoustics. This is essential for understanding speech on phone calls, listening to educational videos, or enjoying music without distortion.

Universal Connectivity: Featuring a standard 3.5mm audio plug , it is compatible with a vast range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and receivers for FM or Infrared assistive listening systems found in theatres and public venues.

Comfort & Convenience: The lightweight loop hangs loosely around the neck, eliminating the physical pressure of wearing headphones over hearing aids. It allows for discreet listening in public spaces.

Enhancing Assistive Systems: It can be plugged into the receiver of public assistive listening systems (like those in museums or conference centres) to deliver the venue's audio directly to the user's personal hearing aids.

Key Features & Benefits

Instant T-Coil Connection: Works with any hearing aid or cochlear implant equipped with a Telecoil, offering universal compatibility.
3.5mm Jack Compatibility: Connects easily to most consumer electronics (phones, iPads, PCs) and assistive listening receivers.
Clear Audio Transmission: Reduces the "distance" between the sound source and the ear, improving signal-to-noise ratio for better comprehension.
Portable & Lightweight: Easy to carry in a pocket or bag, ensuring accessible audio is available wherever the participant goes.
No Batteries Required: Passive design (depending on model variant, usually powered by the source device audio signal), making it a reliable, low-maintenance tool.

Meticulous Specifications

Brand: ChatterVOX
Model: NL2
Product Type: Audio Induction Neckloop
Connection: 3.5mm Stereo Plug (Standard Aux)
Transmission: Magnetic Induction (to T-Coil)
Compatibility: Hearing Aids / Cochlear Implants with T-Coil
Device Support: Phones, Tablets, Computers, FM Receivers, MP3 Players
Wear Style: Neck-worn lanyard style

Package Includes

1 x ChatterVOX NL2 Neckloop
1 x User Instructions

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 - Hearing Related AT
Support Item Number: 03_220600911_0122_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 ChatterVOX Neckloop NL2 is a specialized Assistive Listening Device (ALD) accessory. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who experience functional limitations in hearing and require a method to connect audio devices to their hearing aids.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This device directly supports NDIS goals related to digital inclusion, social participation, and education by:

Enabling Digital Access: It allows participants to access audio from computers and tablets, facilitating participation in online learning, telehealth, and remote work.

Overcoming Physical Barriers: It resolves the physical conflict between hearing aids and standard headphones, allowing the user to listen privately and comfortably.

Enhancing Public Access: By connecting to public assistive listening receivers, it ensures the participant can engage in community events, theatre, or conferences.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money assistive technology. It is a low-cost solution that significantly expands the functionality of the participant's existing hearing aids without the need for expensive proprietary streamers.

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: Connects audio devices (phones/tablets) to T-Coil hearing aids via magnetic induction.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Hearing Equipment.

Plug: 3.5mm Jack.

Comp: T-Coil Hearing Aids.

ChatterVOX NL2 Induction Neckloop | NDIS T-Coil Hearing Aid Audio