Assistive Technology Occupational Therapy

Assistive Technology Occupational Therapy in Melbourne & Sydney

Assistive technology (AT) refers to equipment, devices, software, and systems that help participants perform tasks they would otherwise find difficult or impossible. From simple aids like adapted cutlery and grab rails through to complex powered wheelchairs and communication devices, the right AT can make a significant difference to independence, participation, and quality of life.

Under both the NDIS and Home Care Package programs, assistive technology requires an occupational therapy assessment and prescription. The OT's role is to understand the participant's goals and functional needs, trial appropriate equipment, and prepare the reports that funding bodies use to approve the prescription.

Types of Assistive Technology We Prescribe

Our occupational therapists assess and prescribe across all major AT categories:

• Mobility aids - manual and powered wheelchairs, walking frames, four-wheel walkers, mobility scooters, transfer equipment
• Personal care equipment - shower chairs, commodes, raised toilet seats, over-toilet frames, dressing aids
• Kitchen and daily living aids - adapted cutlery, kettle tippers, jar openers, reachers, plate guards
• Communication devices - speech generating devices, tablets with AAC apps, switch-accessible technology, low-tech communication boards
• Environmental controls - automated door openers, smart home systems, remote-controlled lighting, voice-controlled devices
• Pressure care and seating - pressure-relieving cushions, custom-moulded seating, alternating air mattresses
• Hoists and transfer equipment - mobile hoists, ceiling hoists, slide sheets, sara stedys
• Sensory and learning aids - weighted blankets, fidget tools, visual schedules, ear defenders (paediatric)
• Vehicle modifications - referrals to driving OTs for car modifications and wheelchair-accessible vehicles

The AT Assessment Process

A thorough assistive technology assessment is the foundation of a good prescription. Our process typically includes:

• Initial home visit - usually 60 to 90 minutes - to understand goals, current function, and the home environment
• Functional assessment across relevant tasks - mobility, transfers, daily living, communication, posture and pressure care
• Equipment trials with suppliers - participants test devices in their own environment before committing
• Consultation with the team - family, carers, support coordinators, school staff or HCP providers as appropriate
• Quotes from suppliers for the prescribed equipment, including any required accessories
• AT report with clinical reasoning, functional goals, evidence of trials, and prescription rationale
• Training and review after supply, to ensure the equipment is used safely and adjusted as needed

For a deeper look at what to expect during an AT assessment, read our blog post on assistive technology assessments.

NDIS Assistive Technology Funding Levels

The NDIS classifies assistive technology by cost level, with different evidence requirements at each tier. We prepare assessments and reports appropriate to the level required:

• Low-cost AT (under $1,500) - streamlined assessment and prescription. Items like shower chairs, adapted utensils, dressing aids, and low-tech communication tools. Often does not require a formal AT report.
• Mid-cost AT ($1,500 to $15,000) - comprehensive assessment with supporting evidence. Items like standard manual wheelchairs, walking frames, and basic communication devices. Requires an OT assessment and quote.
• High-cost AT (over $15,000) - detailed reports with trials, multiple quotes, and clinical justification. Items like complex powered wheelchairs, custom seating systems, ceiling hoists, and speech generating devices. Requires comprehensive AT assessment by an experienced OT.

Home Care Package Assistive Technology

For older Australians on a Home Care Package, assistive technology can be funded from your package alongside personal care, domestic assistance, and other services. Our occupational therapists can prescribe equipment such as walking aids, shower equipment, bedroom-to-bathroom equipment, and other items that support remaining safely at home.

For more on how to access OT through your Home Care Package, read our guide.

Equipment Trials Before You Commit

Choosing the right assistive technology is about more than reading product specifications. We arrange trials with suppliers so participants can test equipment in their own home, with their actual family routine, before any funding application is committed to. This is especially important for higher-cost items like powered wheelchairs and complex seating - what looks right on paper doesn't always work in practice. Most local suppliers will provide trial equipment for one to four weeks at no cost.

Training and Review After Supply

Once equipment is supplied, our OTs provide hands-on training so the participant and their support network can use it safely and confidently. For complex devices, we typically schedule a review 4-8 weeks after supply to check fit, adjust settings, and address any issues. For children, we often involve school staff in training so the device works consistently across home and school.

Assistive Technology Across Melbourne and Sydney

Our occupational therapists conduct AT assessments in the participant's own home across Melbourne and Western Sydney. The on-site approach means we see how proposed equipment will fit with the layout of the house, the participant's daily routine, and the support network around them - resulting in AT prescriptions that are practical, well-fitted, and consistently used.

We work with local suppliers across both states to arrange trials, obtain quotes, and coordinate delivery. For complex assistive technology - powered wheelchairs, complex seating, pressure care, and AAC devices - we work with specialist suppliers and rehabilitation engineers as needed.

How to Book an Assistive Technology Assessment

Ergo Therapy Group is a registered NDIS provider delivering assistive technology occupational therapy across Melbourne and Western Sydney. To discuss an AT assessment or prescription, call us on 0450 874 303 or submit a referral online.