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

Hearing Aid Anti-Loss Clip & Security Cord | NDIS BTE Protection

$52.99

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

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Anti-Loss Security: Tethers BTE hearing aids to the user's clothing, preventing expensive loss or damage if the device falls off the ear.
Universal Silicone Fit: Comes with flexible silicone loops in multiple sizes to securely grip various hearing aid models without blocking controls.
Promotes Active Living: Allows participants to exercise, garden, or travel without the fear of dropping their hearing aids, supporting community participation.
Durable Fixation Clip: Features a strong, easy-to-open clamp that attaches securely to collars or necklines, suitable for seniors with reduced dexterity.
Cost-Effective Protection: A low-cost investment that protects high-cost medical devices, reducing the likelihood of needing expensive replacements or repairs.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_220600911_0122_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Low Cost AT - Hearing 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

Protect your investment and your connection to the world. The Hearing Aid Anti-Loss Clip is a simple yet vital piece of low-cost assistive technology designed to prevent the accidental loss or damage of Behind-The-Ear (BTE) hearing aids.

For NDIS participants, hearing aids are expensive and essential for daily living. However, they can easily be dislodged during physical activity, when removing a face mask, or due to dexterity challenges. This security cord attaches the hearing aids securely to the user's clothing, ensuring that if an aid falls off the ear, it does not hit the ground or get lost.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Preventing Loss & Damage (Economic): By tethering the hearing aids to clothing, this device mitigates the high risk of losing expensive medical equipment. This is particularly important for active users or those in aged care environments where aids are frequently misplaced.

Supporting Dexterity & Motor Control: For users with tremors or reduced sensation in their ears, they may not feel a hearing aid falling out. This clip provides a physical safety net, reducing the anxiety associated with handling small devices.

Promoting Active Participation: Participants can engage in exercise, gardening, or community activities with confidence, knowing their hearing aids are secure against sweat and movement.

Universal Compatibility: Supplied with multiple sizes of silicone loops, it adapts to various BTE models, ensuring a tight, secure fit without compromising sound quality or comfort.

Key Features & Benefits

Secure Fixation Clip: Strong clamp attaches firmly to shirt collars or tops, anchoring the hearing aids safely to the wearer.
Universal Silicone Loops: Includes varied loop sizes to stretch over different BTE hearing aid housings, providing a non-slip grip.
Sweat & Moisture Protection: Helps prevent aids from falling onto wet or dirty surfaces, maintaining hygiene and device function.
Discreet & Lightweight: The transparent or neutral cord design is unobtrusive and comfortable for all-day wear.
Easy Operation: Simple to attach and detach, supporting users with mild fine motor limitations.

Meticulous Specifications

Product Type: Hearing Aid Retention Cord / Clip
Compatibility: Behind-The-Ear (BTE) Hearing Aids
Material: Nylon Cord, Silicone Loops, Plastic Clamp
Loop Sizes: Multi-size silicone adapters included
Clip Type: Alligator style fixation clip
Function: Anti-loss, Anti-drop
User Group: Adults / Seniors

Package Includes

1 x Security Cord with Fixation Clip
x Set of Silicone Loops (Various sizes)
1 x Carry Case

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 Hearing Aid Anti-Loss Clip is a specialized Assistive Technology accessory. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who require hearing aids but face risks of loss due to physical activity, balance issues, or limited tactile sensation.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This device directly supports NDIS goals related to independent living, economic sustainability, and social participation by:

Mitigating Risk of Loss: It provides a physical fail-safe, ensuring that essential communication devices are not lost or broken, which would otherwise result in periods of isolation and high replacement costs.

Supporting Independence: It allows users to manage their own hearing aids with confidence, reducing anxiety about potential loss during daily activities.

Enhancing Device Maintenance: By preventing falls onto hard or dirty surfaces, it extends the lifespan of the hearing aids, supporting the participant's long-term access to audio.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money assistive technology. It is a preventative measure that costs a fraction of the price of a replacement hearing aid, representing prudent use of funding.

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: Prevents loss/damage of BTE hearing aids via clothing tether.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Hearing Maintenance.

Compatibility: BTE Hearing Aids.

Material: Silicone & Nylon.

Feature: Secure Clip.

Hearing Aid Anti-Loss Clip & Security Cord | NDIS BTE Protection