Assistive technology can make everyday life easier for people with disability, helping them to live independently, stay safe and stay connected. In Rosebud, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers trials of assistive‑technology devices and services, allowing participants to test and evaluate equipment before committing to a long‑term purchase. This article explains who can access these trials, what is covered, how funding is managed, and the practical steps to get started in Rosebud and its neighbouring communities of Belgravia, Chelsea and Pimlico.
What Are Assistive‑Technology Trials?
Assistive‑technology trials are short‑term, low‑cost trials of devices or services that are intended to assist a participant in daily activities. Trials are designed to give participants a chance to experience the technology, assess its suitability and determine whether it will meet their needs before the full NDIS funding is applied.
Types of Assistive Technology Covered
Trials can include:
- Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, scooters and walking frames
- Communication devices, including speech‑generating tablets and specialised apps
- Environmental control systems for lighting, heating and security
- Adaptive kitchen and bathroom equipment, such as reachers, shower chairs and grab rails
- Assistive listening devices and hearing aids
- Software and apps that support planning, budgeting and medication management
Trials are not limited to one category; a participant may test several items in a single trial period.
Who Can Benefit? Eligibility and Access
Eligibility Criteria for Assistive‑Technology Trials
To be eligible for a trial, a participant must meet the following conditions:
- Be a registered NDIS participant with an active plan
- Have a documented functional limitation that could be mitigated by assistive technology
- Be aged 18 or over, or have a parent or carer who can sign on their behalf for minors
- Show evidence that the technology will support an outcome identified in their NDIS plan (e.g., increased independence, safety, or social participation)
Participants who are not yet registered with the NDIS can apply for registration and then request a trial once they are accepted.
How to Apply for a Trial
1. Review your plan. Check that the assistive technology you need is listed as a potential support or that it aligns with an identified outcome.
2. Consult your planner or support coordinator. They can advise on whether a trial is appropriate and help draft the request.
3. Submit a trial request. Use the online portal or paper form to specify the device, the expected duration (usually 2–4 weeks) and the intended outcome.
4. Await approval. The NDIS will review the request against the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits to ensure the cost is reasonable and the technology is suitable.
5. Sign a trial agreement. Once approved, you will sign a short‑term agreement that sets out the responsibilities of both parties.
For more detailed guidance, you can visit NDIS Home Care Supports in Rosebud – What You Need to Know (Part 2).
What Is Included and What Is Not
Included Items and Services
During a trial, the NDIS may fund:
- Purchase or rental of the assistive device
- Professional assessment and fitting by a qualified technician or occupational therapist
- Training for the participant and their carer on how to use the technology safely and effectively
- Maintenance checks and minor repairs while the device is in use
All costs must remain within the limits set by the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. For example, the price of a wheelchair trial must not exceed the maximum price listed for that category.
Exclusions and Limitations
Trials do not cover:
- Permanent installation of environmental modifications such as permanent ramps or home automation systems
- High‑intensity medical devices that require ongoing clinical supervision (e.g., CPAP machines)
- Ongoing support or maintenance after the trial period, unless the NDIS plan includes a maintenance support line item
- Devices that are already funded under a different line item in the participant’s plan
It is essential to clarify with your planner whether a particular device falls within the trial category or requires a different funding pathway.
Funding Rules and Planning Considerations
Funding Through the NDIS Plan
Assistive‑technology trials are typically funded as a support coordination or capacity building item, depending on the participant’s goal. The plan will allocate a specific budget for the trial, which is separate from the participant’s ongoing equipment budget.
Participants should:
- Ensure the trial budget is not already fully utilised by other supports
- Check that the trial aligns with a measurable outcome in their plan
- Discuss the trial with their planner to confirm that the plan can accommodate the cost
Using the Latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits
All trial costs are checked against the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits. This ensures that:
- The cost of the device or service does not exceed the maximum price allowed for that category
- Any additional costs, such as fitting or training, are within the prescribed limits
- Both the participant and the provider are protected from over‑charging
Providers in Rosebud must submit pricing details for review, and participants should keep copies of all invoices and receipts for audit purposes.
Accessing and Booking Support in Rosebud
Finding Local Providers
Rosebud has a range of local providers who specialise in assistive technology. Many of them offer trial services and are familiar with the NDIS process. When searching for a provider:
- Check that they hold the necessary NDIS provider licence
- Ask for references or case studies from other Rosebud participants
- Verify that they can deliver the specific type of technology you need
For an overview of home care support services in Rosebud, see Home‑Care Supports in Rosebud – What the NDIS Can Offer.
Booking and Managing the Trial
Once a provider is selected:
- Confirm the trial dates and the duration of the trial period.
- Agree on the responsibilities of each party, including who will handle maintenance and what happens if the device fails.
- Keep a record of all communications and signed agreements.
- During the trial, document any issues, improvements in function, and participant feedback.
- At the end of the trial, evaluate whether the technology should be permanently funded or if an alternative solution is required.
If the trial is successful, the provider can assist in applying for full funding under the participant’s NDIS plan.
Local Context: Rosebud and Its Neighbouring Areas
Rosebud’s community is supported by a network of providers that also serve nearby suburbs such as Belgravia, Chelsea and Pimlico. Participants from these areas can access the same trial services, often with reduced travel costs if the provider offers a mobile fitting service. The close proximity of these suburbs means that many providers can offer flexible appointment times to suit participants’ schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an assistive‑technology trial and how long does it last?
An assistive‑technology trial is a short‑term, low‑cost period during which a participant can test a device or service. Trials usually last between two and four weeks, but the exact duration is set by the NDIS and the provider.
Can I use assistive technology that is already funded in my plan for a trial?
No. A trial must be a new technology that is not already funded. If you already have a device funded, you would need to request a replacement or upgrade, not a trial.
What happens if the assistive technology does not work for me during the trial?
If the technology does not meet your needs, you can end the trial early. The NDIS will reimburse you for the proportion of the trial cost that has been used, up to the limits set in the pricing arrangements.
Do I need a support coordinator to apply for a trial?
A support coordinator can help you navigate the process and ensure the trial aligns with your NDIS plan. However, you can apply for a trial directly if you are comfortable managing the paperwork.
Will the trial cost be added to my existing NDIS budget?
Yes. The trial is funded separately from your main equipment budget, so it will be added to the budget line item designated for assistive technology trials.
This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.