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

Roger NeckLoop Wireless Receiver (T-Coil) | NDIS Hearing Aid Streamer

$1,199.99

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In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Universal T-Coil Receiver: Compatible with any brand of hearing aid or cochlear implant equipped with a Telecoil, making Roger technology accessible to everyone.
Enhances Speech in Noise: When paired with a Roger microphone, it drastically improves speech understanding in noisy environments like classrooms or cafes.
10-Hour Battery Life: Reliable rechargeable battery supports a full day of social interaction, work, or study without needing a power source.
Lightweight & Discreet: Weighing only 42g, it can be worn comfortably under clothing, providing high-performance hearing support without drawing attention.
Digital Audio Interface: Can connect to computers via USB to stream audio directly to hearing aids, supporting telehealth and online accessibility.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_220600911_0122_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Hearing accessory - Induction Loop

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

Unlock the power of Roger™ technology with the Phonak Roger NeckLoop . This universal receiver is a premium piece of assistive technology designed to bring crystal-clear speech directly to your ears, regardless of your hearing aid brand.

For NDIS participants who struggle to hear in noisy places (restaurants, classrooms) or over distance (meetings, lectures), standard hearing aids often struggle. The Roger NeckLoop bridges this gap. It receives audio wirelessly from a Roger microphone (sold separately) and transmits it via a magnetic field to the Telecoil (T-Coil) in your hearing aid or cochlear implant.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Speech in Noise (Auditory Processing): When paired with a Roger microphone, this device significantly improves speech understanding in background noise. This allows participants to engage in social events, work meetings, and education without the exhaustion of straining to hear.

Universal Compatibility: Unlike integrated receivers that only fit specific hearing aids, the NeckLoop works with any hearing aid or cochlear implant that has a T-Coil. This makes it a versatile, long-term investment that survives hearing aid upgrades.

Discreet & Accessible: Worn comfortably around the neck (under or over clothing), it is lightweight and easy to operate. It features a clear display for battery and connection status, supporting users who need simple visual feedback.

Digital Accessibility: The NeckLoop can also connect to computers or media devices via USB, functioning as a high-quality audio interface for video calls or online learning.

Key Features & Benefits

Universal T-Coil Connection: Transmits sound to any hearing instrument with a Telecoil, offering freedom of choice in hearing aid brands.
Roger Technology Performance: Accesses the industry-leading speech-in-noise performance of Phonak Roger microphones.
Long Battery Life: Operates for up to 10 hours on a single charge, covering a full day of work or study.
Headphone Output: Can also be used with standard headphones for participants who do not have hearing aids but need amplified, clear signal reception (e.g., Auditory Processing Disorder).
Lightweight Design: Weighs very little, ensuring comfort for all-day wear without neck strain.

Meticulous Specifications

Brand: Phonak
Product Type: Wireless Roger Receiver (Induction Loop)
Compatibility: Any Hearing Aid / Cochlear Implant with T-Coil
Transmission: Roger Wireless (2.4GHz) to Loop (Magnetic)
Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Charging: USB Rechargeable (3 hours to full)
Range: Up to 15-20 meters (from Roger Mic)
Output: Induction Loop & 3.5mm Headphone Jack
Dimensions: 6.7 x 3.3 x 1.4 cm (Receiver unit)
Weight: 42g

Package Includes

1 x Roger NeckLoop Receiver (02 or 03 band depending on selection)
1 x Inductive Neckloop (Small or Long)
1 x USB Charging Cable
1 x Power Supply
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 - Hearing Related AT
Support Item Number: 03_220600911_0122_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 Phonak Roger NeckLoop is a specialized Assistive Listening Device (ALD) Receiver. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who experience significant difficulty understanding speech in noise or over distance, which standard hearing aids cannot resolve alone.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This device directly supports NDIS goals related to social inclusion, economic participation (employment), and education by:

Overcoming Distance & Noise: It bridges the gap between the speaker and the listener. By delivering the speaker's voice directly to the ear via T-Coil, it mitigates the impact of background noise and distance.

Facilitating Universal Access: It allows participants to access high-end Roger microphone technology without needing to purchase expensive, brand-specific integrated receivers for their hearing aids.

Supporting Digital Participation: The USB capability allows for direct streaming from computers, ensuring equal access to online meetings and educational content.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money assistive technology. It is significantly more affordable than purchasing separate integrated receivers for each hearing aid and offers the flexibility to work with future hearing aid upgrades (as long as they have T-Coil).

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: Receives Roger Mic audio & transmits to T-Coil hearing aids; enhances speech in noise.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Hearing Equipment.

Comp: Universal T-Coil.

Battery: 10 Hours. Brand: Phonak.

Roger NeckLoop Wireless Receiver (T-Coil) | NDIS Hearing Aid Streamer