NDIS Consumables for Autistic People: What’s Covered and What’s Not (2025 Update)
- Lived Experience Collective
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Recent changes in NDIS rules have left many people confused about what consumables are—and aren’t—funded for autistic people. As a support coordinator who specialises in neurodivergent supports, I’m here to break it down.
What products tend to be covered?
Visual schedules - These may or may not require an OT letter, depending on your plan manager, however they often can be directly approved e.g. here
Visual timers - These can help with transitions and time-based tasks. e.g. here
Sunscreen applicators - for people with sensory difficulties touching sunscreen to apply it
There are also products that may be covered with a bit of additional evidence, such as:
Disability-specific platforms For example, Maslow — when directly linked to disability needs in an OT letter
Personal care and safety items Such as:
Earbuds
Disability specific skill building products e.g. board games and picture books that teach about emotions or build executive function in a clearly disability specific way if one can demonstrate that it doesn't duplicate what's provided by therapy (e.g. social stories)
Compression clothing
These types of products typically require an Occupational Therapy (OT) report that demonstrates the item:
Is related to disability support needs
Is evidence-based
Represents value for money
Is safe and beneficial
Is more appropriate than any alternatives
Is not an everyday expense for someone without disability
Apps
Apps may be considered on a case-by-case basis if supported by an OT letter addressing the above criteria. Apps in particular may be covered if they relate to communication for autistic people who are non speaking if free apps aren't an option and evidence is provided in relation to this.
What’s not covered?
Under updated NDIS guidelines:
Weighted products (e.g. blankets, vests) require explicit NDIA approval and are often rejected due to safety concerns or restrictive practice arguments. Some people are still receiving these products through appeals to the Administrative Review Tribunal.
Work-related assistive tech - This is not covered by the NDIS under the changes. If you are connected with Centrelink and a job search provider, they may be able to help.
Noise cancelling headphones/headphones - These are no longer covered.
iPads and tablets - Can be requested as a replacement support under specific circumstances with very strong evidence, otherwise not covered. Devices that aren't tablets and soley have a disability related communication function e.g. no features other than facilitating communication for non speaking autistic people for example can be covered with a speech therapist report.
Items also used by neurotypical people - Products that are helpful or fun for the general population are unlikely to be approved. Lived Experience Collective acknowledges the concerns raised by the autistic community that many of their assistive technology items have been co-opted by the public, and then this has been used against them to argue that they are everyday products.
Final Tips
If you’re unsure whether an item is claimable:
Speak with your Support Coordinator, LAC or Plan Manager
Ask your OT to write a report speaking to the criteria outlined in this article
Check the NDIS in and out lists
Navigating NDIS changes can be confusing and confronting - but you're not alone. With the right documentation in place, consumables can often still be accessed to meet your needs.
