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

Patient Transfer Sling with Safety Belt | NDIS Manual Lift Aid

$139.99

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

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Secure Multi-Person Transfer: Equipped with four reinforced handles to allow 2-3 caregivers to assist with the lift, distributing weight evenly and reducing injury risk.
Integrated Safety Straps: Features a specialized fixed band that secures the waist and thighs, preventing the participant from sliding out during movement.
High-Strength Durability: Crafted from premium polyester with reinforced stitching at all stress points, supporting weights up to 100kg reliably.
Versatile Mobility Aid: The soft, flexible design adapts to various transfer scenarios, including wheelchair-to-car, bed-to-chair, or repositioning within a bed.
Portable & Lightweight: Unlike rigid transfer boards, this fabric aid folds compactly for travel, making it an essential tool for community access and holidays.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_120000911_0105_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Transfer AT - Sling Standard

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

Conduct essential daily transfers safely and comfortably with the Patient Lift Transfer Board with Safety Belt. Classified as low cost assistive technology, this soft-structure transfer aid is designed to support NDIS participants with limited mobility who require assistance moving between beds, wheelchairs, cars, and chairs.

Manual handling carries significant risks for both the participant (falls) and the carer (back strain). This device bridges the gap by providing a secure, handle-equipped sling that distributes weight evenly. Unlike standard gait belts that only secure the waist, this unit features a full-body support design with an integrated safety belt to secure the waist and thighs. Crafted from high-durability polyester with reinforced stitching, it allows two or more caregivers to perform transfers with greater control and stability, reducing the physical burden of care and preserving the dignity of the user.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Carer Injury Prevention: The four reinforced handles allow caregivers to lift using their legs and major muscle groups rather than their backs, mitigating the risk of strain and injury.
Fall Prevention: The integrated waist and thigh safety belts prevent the participant from sliding out of the sling during the transfer, ensuring a secure move even in tight spaces like cars.
Facilitating Community Access: Lightweight and foldable, it is easily transported to assist with getting in and out of vehicles, enabling the participant to attend appointments and social events.
Protecting Skin Integrity: The wide surface area distributes pressure more evenly than narrow belts, reducing the risk of bruising or skin shearing during the lift.

Key Features & Benefits

4 Reinforced Handles: Strategically positioned handles allow for a multi-person lift (2-3 caregivers), ensuring the load is shared and the transfer is smooth.
Integrated Safety Belt: Features an extra fixed band to tighten around the waist and thighs, preventing the patient from slipping and ensuring proper positioning.
100kg Weight Capacity: Robust polyester construction supports up to 100kg (220 lbs), making it suitable for a wide range of adult users.
Durable Polyester Fabric: High-quality material resists tearing and wear, ensuring the aid remains reliable over repeated daily use.
Versatile Application: Ideal for complex transfers such as moving from a wheelchair to a car seat, bed to chair, or repositioning in bed.

Meticulous Specifications

Product Type: Soft Patient Transfer Board / Medical Sling
Material: Heavy-Duty Polyester
Weight Capacity: 100 kg (220 lbs)
Handles: 4 x Reinforced Webbing Handles
Safety Features: Integrated Waist & Thigh Safety Belt
Stitching: Reinforced at stress points
Care: Surface clean / Hand wash recommended
Usage Requirement: Minimum 2 Caregivers recommended

Package Includes

1 x Patient Lift Transfer Board with Safety Belt

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 Mobility
Support Item Number: 03_120000911_0105_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 Patient Lift Transfer Board is a specialized Manual Handling and Safety Aid. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who are unable to weight-bear or transfer independently.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This device directly supports NDIS goals related to independent living (by enabling home care), safety, and community participation by:

Reducing OH&S Risks: Providing a safe mechanical method for carers to move participants, which reduces the likelihood of carer burnout or injury.

Enabling Transport: Facilitating transfers into standard vehicles, which allows the participant to access the community without expensive modified transport.

Ensuring Safety: Minimizing the risk of drops or falls during daily transfers, which protects the participant from hospitalization.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money core support. It is a low-cost alternative to mechanical hoists for specific transfer types (like car access) and supports the sustainability of informal care arrangements.

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: Secure manual transfer aid for bed, car, and wheelchair access.

NDIS Category: Capital AT / Core Safety.

Capacity: 100kg.

Handles: 4 Reinforced. Feature: Safety Belt.

Patient Transfer Sling with Safety Belt | NDIS Manual Lift Aid