Guide
How to use NDIS funding for apps and assistive technology
If you're an Australian parent or carer, you may be able to use your child's NDIS plan to pay for apps and low-cost assistive technology (AT) that help you coordinate care.
What counts as assistive technology?
The NDIS describes assistive technology as any device, equipment, or software that helps a participant do something they otherwise couldn't, or do it more safely or easily. Apps that support communication, organisation, behaviour tracking, or daily living can all fit this definition.
Which budget pays for an app?
Most apps fall under Low-cost AT (under $1,500) and are usually funded from the Consumables budget in a participant's plan. Low-cost AT generally doesn't need a quote or an AT assessment — but it does need to be reasonable and necessary, and linked to a goal in the plan.
How to ask for it
- Check the plan for a goal the app supports (e.g. "build daily living skills").
- Talk to your support coordinator or LAC about claiming it as low-cost AT.
- Keep the receipt and a short note about how the app helps your child.
- Claim through the participant portal or your plan manager.
Where GuideNest fits
GuideNest is designed as low-cost AT for families: one calm place to track behaviours, prep for appointments, summarise NDIS documents, and keep clinicians, school and therapists in sync.
This article is general information, not financial or legal advice. Always check the latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and speak to your planner, support coordinator, or plan manager about your child's specific plan.