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

Washable Absorbent Bed Pad (60x90cm) | NDIS Continence Aid

$55.99

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

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Protects Skin Integrity: Rapid absorption wicks moisture away to keep skin dry and prevent irritation or infection.
NDIS Continence Aid: Qualifies as a vital consumable support for hygiene, dignity, and independent living.
100% Waterproof Barrier: Breathable, leak-proof backing protects mattresses and furniture from damage and odours.
Cost-Effective Reusability: Washable design saves money over time compared to disposables and reduces environmental waste.
Promotes Dignity & Sleep: Provides psychological security against leaks, reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_093021078_0103_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Continence - reusable/washable personal protection

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

Maintain dignity, hygiene, and comfort with our premium Washable Incontinence Management Pads. Designed as a crucial piece of low cost assistive technology , these reusable underpads provide superior protection for beds, chairs, and car seats. They offer a dignified solution for managing incontinence, ensuring a dry environment that supports skin integrity and promotes a restful night's sleep.

How This Continence Aid Supports NDIS Participants

Effective continence management is fundamental to health and wellbeing. These pads directly support NDIS goals by:

Protecting Skin Integrity: Clinical evidence shows that keeping skin dry is vital for preventing irritation, dermatitis, and pressure injuries. The rapid-absorption core wicks moisture away from the body, maintaining a dry surface that protects sensitive skin and reduces the need for medical interventions.
Enhancing Sleep & Mental Health: Fear of leaks can cause significant anxiety and sleep disruption. By providing a reliable, leak-proof barrier, these pads offer psychological comfort and security, allowing participants to sleep soundly without embarrassment or worry.
Supporting Independence & Dignity: These pads enable individuals to manage their continence needs discreetly. Whether used in bed or on a wheelchair, they allow for greater confidence in daily activities and social participation, reducing the risk of isolation.
Cost-Effective & Sustainable: Unlike disposable pads which are an ongoing expense and environmental burden, these high-quality washable pads can be reused hundreds of times. This represents excellent value for money for NDIS participants managing a Core Support budget.

Key Features & Benefits

4-Layer Instant Absorption: Features a highly absorbent core that locks in moisture instantly, keeping the top layer dry to the touch for maximum comfort.
100% Waterproof & Leak-Proof: A durable waterproof backing ensures complete protection for mattresses and furniture, saving time and effort on heavy laundry and cleaning.
Breathable & Skin-Friendly: Made with soft, hypoallergenic materials that allow air circulation, reducing heat build-up and preventing skin breakdown.
Non-Slip Design: Designed to stay securely in place on a bed or chair, preventing bunching and discomfort during movement.
Machine Washable & Durable: Built to withstand frequent washing and drying cycles while maintaining absorbency and waterproof integrity.

Meticulous Specifications

Dimensions: Approx. 60 cm x 90 cm
Absorbency: Heavy / High Volume
Layers: 4 (Soft Top, Absorbent Core, Waterproof Barrier, Non-Slip Backing)
Material: Polyester / Rayon blend (Latex Free)
Care: Machine washable (up to 60°C), Tumble dry low
Lifespan: Reusable for 300+ washes

Package Includes

1 x Washable Incontinence Bed Pad

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 Assistive Technology
Support Item Number: 03_093021078_0103_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.

These Washable Incontinence Pads are a practical health and hygiene aid designed to assist NDIS participants in achieving their personal goals for continence management and skin integrity. They are classified as Core Supports (Consumables) / Low Cost Assistive Technology - an essential item for maintaining health and dignity.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This continence aid directly supports NDIS goals related to physical health, personal hygiene, and psychosocial wellbeing by:

Maintaining Skin Integrity: For participants with incontinence, skin breakdown is a serious medical risk. These pads provide a dry, breathable interface that wicks moisture away, significantly reducing the risk of dermatitis, infections, and pressure injuries, supporting overall physical health goals.

Improving Sleep & Psychological Wellbeing: Incontinence can lead to anxiety and social withdrawal. By providing a secure, leak-proof solution, these pads reduce the fear of accidents, promoting better sleep hygiene and enhancing self-esteem and dignity.

Enhancing Economic Participation: By providing a reliable solution that can be used on chairs or in vehicles, these pads support participants who work or study, allowing them to engage in daily activities without interruption or fear of embarrassment.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

These pads align with the NDIS 'Reasonable and Necessary' criteria by being a clinical necessity for managing a bodily function that the participant cannot control.

They represent excellent value for money compared to single-use disposables. The long lifespan and durability of the product reduce long-term costs for the scheme. As a piece of low cost assistive technology, it is a fundamental investment in a participant's daily care and quality of life.

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: Protects skin integrity & mattresses; supports dignity & hygiene for incontinence management.

NDIS Category: Core Supports / Continence Aid.

Size: Approx. 60 cm x cm.

Absorbency: High / Heavy.

Feature: 100% Waterproof & Breathable.

Care: Machine Washable & Reusable.

Washable Absorbent Bed Pad (60x90cm) | NDIS Continence Aid