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

WiFi Smart SOS Call Button System (2 Pendants) | NDIS Safety Alert

$133.99

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

In stock

Product variants

Building Capacity & Independence

Smartphone App Alerts: Connects to your home WiFi to send instant SOS notifications directly to the caregiver's phone, ensuring safety even when they are not at home.
Unlimited Range Monitoring: Unlike standard pagers, as long as the caregiver has phone reception, they can receive alerts from the participant anywhere in the world.
Dual Alert System: Activates a loud alarm and flashing light on the local receiver unit while simultaneously pushing a notification to the mobile app for maximum safety coverage.
Share Care Responsibility: The app supports multiple users, allowing family members and support workers to share the monitoring role and prevent carer burnout.
Includes 2 SOS Buttons: Comes with two wearable transmitters, allowing the participant to keep one worn and one mounted in a high-risk area like the bedside or bathroom.

NDIS Claims Ready Code: 03_090000911_0103_1_1

What does "Claims Ready" mean?

Support Item: Low Cost AT - Personal Care and Safety

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

Achieve peace of mind anywhere with the DAYTECH WiFi Smart Caregiver SOS System . This advanced piece of assistive technology modernizes the traditional panic button by connecting directly to your smartphone via Wi-Fi.

Standard caregiver pagers only work within the house. This Smart Wi-Fi System breaks that barrier. When the participant presses the SOS button, it sends an instant alert to the caregiver's smartphone app, no matter where they are—whether in the backyard, at the shops, or at work. It also rings the local receiver unit in the home, ensuring that anyone nearby is also alerted via sound and flashing lights.

How This Device Supports NDIS Participants

Remote Safety Monitoring: Unlike standard RF pagers with limited range, this system uses the internet (2.4GHz Wi-Fi). This allows primary carers to step out of the house or go to work while still maintaining a direct line of emergency contact with the participant.

Reducing Carer Burnout: The "Share Function" allows multiple family members or support workers to download the app and receive alerts. This distributes the responsibility of monitoring, allowing the primary carer to take breaks with confidence.

Visual & Auditory Alerts: The local receiver features 12 ringtones and 4 volume levels , plus a flashing red LED. This ensures that even if the carer in the home has hearing impulses or is wearing headphones, the visual cue will alert them to the emergency.

Promoting Independence: Participants can spend time alone in their room or home knowing that help is just a button press away. The lightweight lanyard buttons are easy to wear and require minimal force to activate, supporting users with limited mobility or dexterity.

Key Features & Benefits

Smart App Integration: Receive instant notifications on your mobile phone whenever the SOS button is pressed, removing range anxiety.
Dual Alert System: Alerts both the smartphone (globally) and the plug-in receiver (locally), ensuring no call for help is missed.
Two Transmitters: Includes two SOS buttons—keep one in the bathroom and wear one around the neck for comprehensive coverage.
Rechargeable Receiver: The base unit has a backup battery, ensuring it continues to function even if moved between power points.
Shareable Alerts: The app allows multiple users to be added, creating a "care circle" where siblings, partners, or support workers can all monitor safety.

Meticulous Specifications

Brand: DAYTECH
Product Type: WiFi Smart Caregiver Pager
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 2.4GHz (Connects to Smartphone App)
Components: 1 x Receiver, 2 x SOS Transmitters (Buttons)
Receiver Power: Rechargeable Battery / Mains USB
Alert Types: App Notification, Audible Ringtone, Visual LED Flash
Volume: 4 Adjustable Levels
Ringtones: 12 Options
App Features: Instant Alert, Low Battery Warning, Multi-User Sharing
Range: Unlimited via App (internet dependent) / Local range for receiver

Package Includes

1 x Smart WiFi Receiver
2 x SOS Call Buttons (Transmitters) with Lanyards
1 x Charging Cable
1 x User Manual

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 DAYTECH WiFi Smart SOS System is a specialized Assistive Technology device for safety. It is designed to assist NDIS participants who are at risk of falls, medical emergencies, or who require immediate assistance while alone.

How This Item Can Support NDIS Goals

This device directly supports NDIS goals related to independent living, risk management, and informal support sustainability by:

Enhancing Safety via Technology: The Wi-Fi connectivity ensures that the call for help is not limited by the physical range of the house, allowing carers to receive alerts even when conducting errands or in the garden.

Promoting Independence: It allows the participant to feel safe remaining in their home or room alone, knowing they have an immediate and reliable link to their support network.

Strengthening the Support Network: By allowing multiple family members to receive alerts via the app, it distributes the "on-call" burden, helping to sustain the informal care arrangement.

Meeting 'Reasonable & Necessary' Criteria

This device aligns with NDIS criteria as a value-for-money assistive technology. It provides advanced smart-home safety features at a low cost, potentially delaying the need for expensive 24/7 in-home supervision.

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: Sends emergency alerts to carer's phone via WiFi; unlimited range.

NDIS Category: Core Consumables / Low Cost AT.

Connect: 2.4GHz WiFi.

Includes: 2 Buttons, 1 Receiver.

App: Smart Alerts.

WiFi Smart SOS Call Button System (2 Pendants) | NDIS Safety Alert