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

Independent Living Kitchen Kit | NDIS Meal Prep & Dining Bundle

$249.99

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

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Weighted Dining Stability: Specialized cutlery with heavy, non-slip handles helps dampen tremors and allows for controlled, independent eating.
High-Grip Prep Surfaces: Includes four large silicone mats that anchor mixing bowls, cutting boards, and plates to prevent sliding during use.
Zero-Strain Jar Opening: A leverage-assist tool allows participants with reduced grip strength to open vacuum-sealed jars and bottles with minimal effort.
Maximum Thermal Protection: Combines 33cm silicone gauntlets with a rack-pulling tool to ensure complete safety when interacting with hot ovens.
Holistic Independence: A value-packed bundle designed to address accessibility barriers at every stage of the mealtime routine.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_090000911_0103_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Assistive products for preparing food and drink

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

Regain total control and confidence in the kitchen with the Complete Kitchen Starter Kit. Classified as low cost assistive technology, this comprehensive bundle has been curated to address the specific functional limitations faced by NDIS participants with reduced grip strength, upper limb mobility restrictions, tremors, or fatigue.

This is not just a collection of tools; it is a start-to-finish independent living solution. From the moment you begin food preparation to the final bite of your meal, this kit removes common barriers. It stabilizes mixing bowls with high-grip mats, reduces the torque required to open jars, eliminates the danger of reaching into hot ovens, and restores dignity to dining with weighted utensils. By integrating safety, leverage, and stability into every step of the process, this kit empowers participants to cook and eat safely without relying on constant support.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Tremor Management & Stability: The weighted utensils and non-slip mats work in tandem to dampen hand tremors and anchor tableware, reducing spills and frustration during dining.
Joint Protection & Energy Conservation: Mechanical leverage tools (jar grippers) and high-friction mats reduce the force required to open containers or hold bowls, preserving energy and protecting painful joints (e.g., Arthritis).
Thermal Injury Prevention: The combination of extended-cuff silicone mitts and the oven rack puller creates a multi-layered safety system, drastically reducing the risk of burns for participants with delayed reaction times or mobility aids.
Promoting Nutritional Independence: By making the physical act of cooking and eating accessible, the kit encourages the preparation of fresh meals at home, supporting better health outcomes.

Key Features & Benefits

Complete Workflow Support: Covers opening, prepping, cooking, and dining, ensuring no part of the meal process becomes a blocking point.
Weighted Utensils (GLEAVI): Heavier handles provide proprioceptive feedback to stabilize hand movements, while the rocker knife allows for one-handed cutting.
Non-Slip Anchor Points: Four large silicone mats allow the user to create stable workstations anywhere, preventing cutting boards or plates from sliding away.
Extended Heat Safety: Includes 33cm gauntlet mitts and a rack puller to ensure the user never has to lean into a hot oven or touch hot surfaces.
Universal Jar Opening: The gripper tool accommodates lids from 2cm to 8.5cm, allowing users with weak grip to access sealed jars independently.

2. Jar & Bottle Gripper:

Capacity: 2cm to 8.5cm lids
Mechanism: Leverage assistance

3. Weighted Utensils (x3):

Items: Tablespoon, Teaspoon, Rocker Knife
Handle: Non-slip, Weighted rubber
Benefit: Tremor reduction

4. Avanti Oven Tool:

Material: Heat-resistant Silicone (240°C)
Function: Push/Pull racks

5. KitchenAid Oven Mitts (x2):

Length: 33cm (Gauntlet style)
Heat Resistance: 260°C
Material: Waterproof Silicone exterior

Package Includes

1 x 4-Pack Non-Slip Silicone Mats
1 x Assistive Jar & Bottle Gripper Set
1 x 3-Piece Weighted Utensils Set (Spoon, Teaspoon, Rocker Knife)
1 x Avanti Safe-Reach Oven Tool
1 x Pair KitchenAid High-Grip Oven Mitts

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 - Personal Care And Safety
Support Item Number: 03_090000911_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.

The Complete Kitchen Starter Kit is a curated collection of Assistive Products for Household Tasks and Eating. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who experience broad functional limitations affecting strength, dexterity, and mobility in the kitchen.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This kit directly supports NDIS goals related to increasing autonomy, improving safety, and developing independent living skills by:

Enabling Self-Sufficiency: Providing the specific tools required to prepare and consume meals without physical assistance.

Mitigating Multiple Risks: Simultaneously addressing the risks of burns, cuts (via rocker knife), and spills.

Enhancing Participation: allowing the participant to engage meaningfully in family mealtime activities.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This bundle aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money core support. Purchasing these essential aids as a kit provides a cost-effective solution compared to acquiring individual items, delivering high utility for daily independent living.

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: Complete solution for cooking safety & dining stability.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Low Cost AT.

Kit Contents: 5 Essential Daily Living Aids.

Focus: Grip, Heat Safety & Tremor Control.

Independent Living Kitchen Kit | NDIS Meal Prep & Dining Bundle