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

Origin Medical Non-Touch Thermometer | NDIS Infection Control Aid

$59.99

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

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

TGA Registered Medical Device: Listed with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (ARTG 388490), guaranteeing clinical-grade accuracy and reliability for home health monitoring.
Hygienic Non-Contact Use: Measures temperature from 3-5cm away, preventing cross-contamination and reducing the need to sanitize the device between users.
Sensory Friendly Operation: Eliminates the invasive feeling of ear or oral thermometers, making it ideal for checking the temperature of sleeping children or sensory-sensitive adults.
Health Trend Tracking: Built-in memory stores the last 35 temperature readings, helping users and carers track the progress of an illness or medication effectiveness.
Instant & Accessible: Provides a reading in one second on a large, clear LCD screen, supporting users with visual impairments or those needing quick results.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_040000919_0103_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Disability-Related Health Consumables - Low Cost

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

Monitor health vitals with clinical precision and hygiene using the Origin Medical Non-Touch Digital Forehead Thermometer. Classified as low cost assistive technology, this TGA-registered medical device is designed to support NDIS participants with compromised immune systems, sensory sensitivities, or chronic health conditions requiring regular temperature tracking.

Traditional thermometers often require invasive contact (oral/ear) which can be distressing for participants with sensory processing disorders or Autism. This infrared device captures accurate readings instantly without touching the skin, eliminating cross-contamination risks and allowing for temperature checks while the user is asleep. Featuring a large backlit display and simple one-button operation, it empowers participants and carers to manage health monitoring duties with confidence and ease.

3. How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Infection Control: The non-contact design eliminates the need for skin contact, significantly reducing the risk of spreading germs or cross-contamination between household members.
Sensory Regulation: Removes the tactile discomfort of cold probes in the ear or mouth, making health checks less stressful for participants with tactile hypersensitivity.
Cognitive Support: Features a memory function that stores the last 35 readings, assisting participants with memory challenges to track health trends without needing to write them down immediately.
Promoting Independence: The ergonomic gun-style grip and one-button activation make it easy for users with reduced fine motor skills to take their own temperature.

4. Key Features & Benefits

TGA Registered (ARTG 388490): Certified by the Therapeutic Goods Administration of Australia, ensuring the device meets strict standards for clinical accuracy and reliability.
Instant Non-Touch Reading: Delivers a precise result in under a second from a distance of 3-5cm, minimizing disruption to the user.
Fever Alert System: Provides immediate visual and/or auditory feedback if a high temperature is detected, aiding quick decision-making for medical care.
35-Reading Memory: Automatically saves data history, allowing carers or users to monitor the progression of a fever over time.
Large LCD Display: High-contrast digital numbers ensure the reading is legible for users with low vision or when checking in low-light environments.

6. Meticulous Specifications

Product Type: Infrared Non-Contact Thermometer
ARTG ID: 388490
Measurement Distance: 3 - 5 cm
Measurement Range: 32.0°C - 42.0°C (Body Mode)
Accuracy: Clinical Precision High-Sensitivity Sensor
Memory: Stores last 35 readings
Display: LCD with Backlight
Units: Celsius (°C) / Fahrenheit (°F)
Auto-Off: Yes (Battery saving)
Power: 2 AAA Battery Operated (Included)

7. Package Includes

1 x Origin Medical Non-Touch Infrared Thermometer
1 x User Manual
2x AAA Batteries

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: Disability-Related Health Consumables - Low Cost
Support Item Number: 03_040000919_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 Origin Medical Non-Touch Thermometer is a specialized Health Monitoring and Safety Aid. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who experience functional limitations in immune health, sensory processing, or fine motor control.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This device directly supports NDIS goals related to maintaining physical wellbeing, independent living, and safety by:

Managing Health Risks: Allowing for rapid detection of fever, which is critical for participants with conditions that make them vulnerable to infection.

Reducing Distress: Providing a non-invasive method of checking vitals that avoids triggering sensory meltdowns or anxiety.

Enabling Self-Care: Simple operation allows the participant to monitor their own health status independently.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money core support. It is a durable, clinical-grade tool that prevents the spread of illness within the home environment.

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: Non-contact fever monitoring for infection control & sensory comfort.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Safety AT.

ARTG ID: 388490.

Memory: 35 Readings. Response: 1 Second.

Origin Medical Non-Touch Thermometer | NDIS Infection Control Aid