# How can OTs recommend apps through NDIS low-cost assistive technology?

> What the NDIS looks for, how to link an app to plan goals, trial well and write a clear recommendation.

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

**Short answer:** The NDIS funds assistive technology that's directly related to the participant's disability, helps with plan goals, is allowed under NDIS rules and is supported by evidence. Low-cost, low-risk items under $1,500 usually don't need an assistive technology advisor. A short trial and a recommendation that links the app to a specific goal make the case clearer. Tablets themselves usually aren't funded.

**Key takeaways**
- Link the app to a **specific plan goal** and the **participant's disability**.
- Items **under $1,500**, low-risk, usually **don't need an AT advisor**.
- Run a **short trial** and note what changed.
- **Tablets** usually **aren't funded**.

## What does the NDIS look for?

Assistive technology must be directly related to the participant's disability, help them work towards their goals, be something NDIS rules allow, and be supported by evidence. The NDIS funds the most cost-effective option that achieves the outcome.[1]

## How does low-cost AT work?

Items **under $1,500** that are **low-risk** can often be bought without advice from an assistive technology advisor. Items over $1,500 need advice, and high-cost items need a quote.[1]

## How do I write a clear recommendation?

| Section | Example |
| --- | --- |
| Goal | Complete the morning routine with less adult prompting |
| Link to disability | Difficulty with sequencing and transitions related to autism |
| What the app does | Visual schedule with the child's own photos, used at home and school |
| Trial results | Over two weeks, the child completed more steps independently |
| Why this option | Low-cost, low-risk, meets the goal at lower cost than alternatives |

**Measure something simple.** Count prompts needed or steps completed during a short trial. Simple numbers make the recommendation stronger.

## What should I avoid?

**Try:**
- Recommending a specific function, not just 'an autism app'
- Checking the family has a suitable device
- Telling the family to confirm with their plan manager

**Skip:**
- Recommending NDIS funds for a tablet without approval
- Vague recommendations with no goal

**About The Autism Kit.** The Autism Kit is a visual supports app for iPad and iPhone, available in the Australian App Store. Children's
  routines and photos stay on the device. The NDIS doesn't approve specific apps; each decision depends on the
  participant's plan.

## What can I do with my next client?

- [ ] Identify the plan goal an app would support
- [ ] Run a two-week trial and count one simple measure
- [ ] Write a short recommendation linking app, goal and disability

For families: [Can the NDIS pay for apps like visual schedules?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/ndis-apps-assistive-technology)

## Common questions

### Does the NDIS keep a list of approved apps?

No. The NDIS decides whether a support is reasonable and necessary and related to the participant's disability and goals.

### Can the NDIS fund the tablet as well?

Usually not, because tablets are everyday household items. Occasionally a tablet may be approved as a replacement support, but only with written approval before purchase.

### Do I need to write a formal report for a low-cost app?

Low-cost, low-risk items don't usually need an AT advisor, but a short written recommendation helps families and plan managers.

## 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
3. Occupational Therapy Australia. https://otaus.com.au/

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