What you need to do after we approve the assistive technology in your plan and before you buy it depends on the cost and risk of using the item.
You’ll need to get advice or an assessment before you buy your assistive technology.
To help you understand what you need to do, check out the fact sheet Understand assistive technology evidence, advice, assessments and quotes .
What do we mean by risk?
Some assistive technology is higher risk.
People can be injured by these items when not used or set up correctly.
What’s low risk assistive technology?
When we talk about low risk, we mean assistive technology that:
- is unlikely to cause harm in your day-to-day life
- is available in stores so you can see or try it before you buy
- doesn’t need professional advice, setup or training for you to use it safely.
Many assistive technology products are low risk, both to you and others.
This includes things like non-slip mats, modified cutlery, walking sticks or handheld magnifiers.
What’s higher risk assistive technology?
Higher cost assistive technology such as power wheelchairs are likely to be higher risk.
We might consider assistive technology higher risk even if it doesn’t cost very much.
For example, bed poles and weighted blankets are higher risk.
You can look at some examples of the 2 assistive technology risk levels and typical products in each category.
We rely on information from the Therapeutic Goods Administration who regulate the use of therapeutic goods in Australia.
You often need professional or skilled advice to pick the right model or size for higher risk assistive technology.
You also need to make sure it’s set up properly, and you understand how to use it. This way you’ll get the best outcomes and avoid getting hurt.
We’ll include funding in your plan so you can get written advice about any higher risk assistive technology you need before you buy the item.
We’ll also include funding for someone to help you to set up and learn how to use it.