# Can the NDIS pay for apps like visual schedules? Low-cost assistive technology explained

> How the NDIS treats apps and tablets, the $1,500 low-cost threshold, and how to show an app is related to your child's disability.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/ndis-apps-assistive-technology
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** The NDIS can fund assistive technology, including apps, when it's directly related to your child's disability, helps with their plan goals and is supported by evidence. Low-cost, low-risk items under $1,500 usually don't need an assistive technology advisor. Tablets and smartphones are day-to-day household items, so they usually aren't funded, except sometimes as an approved replacement support.

**Key takeaways**
- The NDIS funds assistive technology **related to your child's disability** and **plan goals**.
- Items **under $1,500** and low-risk usually **don't need an advisor**.
- **Tablets** are usually **not funded**, except as an approved **replacement support**.
- **Evidence** matters: a clinician's recommendation helps.

## Can NDIS funding pay for apps?

The NDIS funds assistive technology that is:[1]

- Directly related to your child's disability
- Helpful for working towards their goals
- Something NDIS rules say can be funded
- Supported by evidence

It won't fund things that aren't related to the disability, that another program should fund, or common items everyone needs.[1]

## What is low-cost assistive technology?

The NDIS says you might feel comfortable buying an item yourself if you've bought it before, it's **less than $1,500** and it's **low-risk**. Items **over $1,500** need advice from an assistive technology advisor, and high-cost items need a quote.[1]

## Why aren't tablets usually funded?

A tablet or smartphone is a **day-to-day household item**, so it isn't usually an NDIS support. Sometimes the NDIS funds a tablet as a **replacement support**, replacing another support in the plan. You must apply and have it approved in writing before buying.[1][2]

**Link the app to a goal.** Evidence is stronger when it connects the app to a plan goal: for example, "using a visual schedule to complete the
  morning routine more independently."

## How do I show an app fits my child's plan?

**Try:**
- A recommendation from your child's OT or speech pathologist
- A short trial with notes on what changed
- Linking the app to a specific plan goal
- Checking with your plan manager or my NDIS contact

**Skip:**
- Buying a tablet with NDIS funds without approval
- Assuming an app is covered because it says 'autism'

**About The Autism Kit.** The Autism Kit is a visual supports app for iPad and iPhone, available in the Australian App Store. The NDIS doesn't
  approve specific apps; whether it can be funded depends on your child's plan. Your App Store shows the price in
  Australian dollars.

**Ask for help if....** you're not sure whether an item is an NDIS support. Your plan manager, support coordinator or my NDIS contact can
  explain.

Free printable: [Free printable: starter pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/starter-pack.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Check which plan goal the app would support
- [ ] Ask your child's OT or speech pathologist for a recommendation
- [ ] Talk to your plan manager before buying

For therapists: [How can OTs recommend apps through NDIS low-cost assistive technology?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/ot-ndis-apps)

## Common questions

### Will the NDIS buy my child an iPad?

Usually not. The NDIS treats tablets as everyday household items. In some cases it may approve a tablet as a replacement support, but you need to apply and get written approval first.

### Do I need a quote for an app?

Not usually for low-cost, low-risk items under $1,500. Items over $1,500 need advice from an assistive technology advisor, and high-cost items need a quote.

### Is The Autism Kit an NDIS-approved app?

The NDIS doesn't keep a list of approved apps. It decides whether a support is related to your child's disability and plan goals. Keep your receipt and talk to your plan manager or my NDIS contact.

## Sources

1. NDIS: Guide to assistive technology. https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/assistive-technology/assistive-technology-and-advisors/guide-assistive-technology
2. NDIS: What are NDIS supports. https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supports-funded-ndis

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.