05_121227221_0109_1_2
Vehicles - Modification for Wheelchair Seated Driver

Line Item Description

This support item, 05_121227221_0109_1_2, is provided under the Assistive Technology (Capital) support category, specifically relating to Vehicle Modifications.

Purpose of the Support This item funds major, structural alterations to a participant's vehicle's chassis and/or body to enable the participant to operate the vehicle as the driver while remaining seated in their wheelchair. This is a high-cost modification required when the participant cannot transfer from their wheelchair to the vehicle's driver seat and must drive from their mobility aid to achieve independence.

Scope of the Modification The modifications covered under this line item involve deep structural changes to the vehicle's body and chassis to ensure the vehicle is safe, compliant, and fully functional for a wheelchair-seated driver. This includes:

Structural Conversion: Extensive modifications such as lowering the floor and/or raising the roof of the vehicle to achieve the necessary internal height and space clearance for the wheelchair and seated driver.

Driver Access Systems: Installation of powered ramps, lifts, or specialist docking systems that allow the participant to independently enter the vehicle in their wheelchair, secure their position in the driver's spot, and safely operate the vehicle.

Integrated Driving Controls: While this line item primarily covers the chassis/body work, the goal of the conversion is to integrate with a sophisticated suite of adaptive driving controls (which may be funded under a separate line item) required for the participant to operate the vehicle.

Safety and Certification: The support includes all necessary engineering and compliance work to meet stringent road safety and transport authority requirements for modified vehicles.

All complex chassis/body modifications must be justified by an assessment from a qualified professional, typically a Driver Trained Occupational Therapist, who confirms that this high-level modification is the least restrictive, most effective, and most beneficial option for the participant to achieve their driving goals.

Outcomes and Benefits Funding for this modification enables the participant to drive themselves, leading to the highest level of personal transport independence, significantly improved community and economic participation, and greater choice and control over their daily life.

NDIS Process Requirement This item is categorised as a Quotable Support and typically represents a high-cost investment. The NDIS requires a detailed, written quote from an NDIS Registered Provider (qualified vehicle modifier) and a comprehensive professional assessment outlining the need for this specific modification before funding can be approved under the participant's NDIS plan.