05_121218811_0109_1_2
Vehicles - Hoist for Occupied Wheelchair Loading

Line Item Description

This support item, 05_121218811_0109_1_2, is for Vehicle Modification - Hoist for Occupied Wheelchair Loading and is funded under the Assistive Technology (Capital) support category.

Purpose of the Support This item covers the installation of a high-capacity, heavy-duty mechanical or electronic hoist/lift system designed to transfer a participant who remains seated in their wheelchair (or mobility scooter) into and out of a vehicle. This modification is typically required when the participant is unable to transfer out of their mobility device or when a transfer would be physically difficult or unsafe for the participant and/or their carer.

Features and Benefits The installation of an occupied wheelchair loading hoist/lift is a significant vehicle modification that provides:

Enhanced Safety and Dignity: It ensures a secure and stable lift, allowing the participant to remain in their own crash-tested wheelchair throughout the loading and travel process, which maximises safety and comfort.

Increased Independence and Access: By eliminating the need for physically challenging transfers, it significantly improves the participant's ability to access community, social, educational, and employment activities, thus promoting greater independence.

Reduced Carer Strain: It removes the need for manual lifting of the participant and their mobility device, drastically reducing the risk of injury and physical strain on caregivers.

Application and Process

Quotable Support: This is a high-cost support item, meaning the provider must provide a quote to the NDIS for approval as part of the "Reasonable and Necessary" criteria.

Assessment: A comprehensive functional assessment by a qualified professional, such as a specialist Occupational Therapist (OT) skilled in vehicle modifications, is mandatory. The assessment will determine the suitability of the participant's current or proposed vehicle (which must be large enough to accommodate the occupied wheelchair).

Compliance and Certification: The final modification and installation must be performed by a registered Vehicle Access Modifier (VAM) and may require certification from the relevant State or Territory road transport authority to ensure compliance with Australian Standards and vehicle safety requirements.

Vehicle Ownership: The participant or a family member must own the vehicle, or the participant must have long-term access to it with the owner's permission.