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

Oricom CARE80S Amplified Photo Phone | NDIS Big Button Aid

$177.99

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

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Photo Memory Dialling: Features 6 large customizable photo buttons, allowing users with memory loss or dementia to dial contacts visually with a single press.
Amplified Volume (+20dB): Boosts handset volume and features an extra-loud 85dB ringer, ensuring conversations are audible for users with hearing impairment.
Hearing Aid Compatible: Designed to work seamlessly with T-Coil enabled hearing aids, reducing interference and feedback for clear audio.
Visual Ring Indicator: A bright light flashes during incoming calls, providing a vital visual cue for participants who may miss audio alerts.
Big Button Keypad: Oversized, high-contrast numbers aid users with low vision or limited fine motor skills to dial accurately and independently.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_222100911_0124_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Hearing device - Specialised Landline Telephone

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

Stay connected to loved ones and essential services with the Oricom CARE80S . This specialized amplified speakerphone is a critical piece of low-cost assistive technology designed for NDIS participants living with hearing loss, low vision, or cognitive challenges such as dementia.

Standard telephones can be difficult to hear, hard to see, and confusing to navigate. The CARE80S solves these issues with Photo Memory Dialling and Amplified Audio . By inserting photos of family, friends, or carers into the large speed-dial buttons, users can make a call with a single touch—no need to remember or read complex numbers.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Supporting Memory & Cognition (Photo Dialling): For participants with memory loss, dementia, or intellectual disability, numbers can be abstract and difficult to recall. The six large photo buttons allow the user to dial visually ("Call Mum" or "Call Doctor") promoting independence and reducing anxiety.

Overcoming Hearing Barriers: Featuring an extra-loud ringer (85dB) and receiver amplification (up to 20dB), this phone ensures incoming calls are heard and conversations are clear. It is also Hearing Aid Compatible (HAC) , minimizing interference for hearing aid users.

Visual Accessibility: The high-contrast, big-button keypad is designed for users with low vision or limited fine motor skills, making it easier to target numbers without misdialling.

Safety & Emergency Access: A bright visual ring indicator flashes when the phone rings, providing a secondary alert for the Deaf or hard of hearing. The simplicity of the one-touch dialling ensures help is accessible quickly in an emergency.

Key Features & Benefits

6 Photo Speed-Dial Buttons: Instantly dial contacts by pressing a familiar face or symbol, supporting users with memory or literacy challenges.
Amplified Audio: Boosts incoming voice volume by up to 20dB and ringer volume to 85dB, ensuring clear communication for the hard of hearing.
Hearing Aid Compatible: Inductive coupling allows the phone to work clearly with T-Coil enabled hearing aids.
Visual Ring Indicator: A bright light flashes when a call comes in, ensuring the user is alerted even if they cannot hear the ringer.
Hands-Free Speakerphone: Allows for communication without holding the handset, beneficial for users with upper limb mobility restrictions.

Meticulous Specifications

Brand: Oricom
Model: CARE80S
Type: Corded Amplified Phone
Amplification: Receiver (+20dB), Ringer (85dB)
Buttons: Extra Large, High Contrast
Memory Keys: 6 x Photo Dial Buttons
Compatibility: Hearing Aid Compatible (HAC)
Visual Alert: Flashing Ring Indicator
Network: PSTN / NBN (via Voice Port)
Mounting: Desk or Wall Mountable

Package Includes

1 x Oricom CARE80S Base Unit
1 x Handset
1 x Curly Cord
1 x Telephone Line Cord
1 x User Guide

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 - Communication Or Cognitive Support
Support Item Number: 03_222100911_0124_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 Oricom CARE80S is a specialized Assistive Communication Device. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who experience functional limitations in hearing, vision, memory, or cognition that make standard telephones unusable.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This device directly supports NDIS goals related to social inclusion, independent living, and safety by:

Facilitating Independent Communication: The photo-dialling feature removes the cognitive load of remembering numbers, allowing participants with dementia or intellectual disability to contact family and services independently.

Overcoming Sensory Barriers: Amplified audio and visual ring indicators ensure that participants with hearing loss can maintain connection with their community and support network.

Enhancing Safety: By providing a simple, one-touch method to call for help, it reduces the risk of isolation and ensures the participant can access emergency services if required.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money assistive technology. It provides essential communication adaptations (amplification and visual aids) at a low cost, preventing social isolation and potential safety risks.

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: Photo dialling for memory support; amplified audio for hearing loss.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Communication AT.

Ringer: 85dB. Receiver Gain: +20dB.

Feature: 6 Photo Memory Keys.

Oricom CARE80S Amplified Photo Phone | NDIS Big Button Aid