NDIS vehicle modifications and specialised driver training are essential supports that help you travel safely, maintain independence, and stay connected to your community. If you require changes to a vehicle because of your disability, the NDIS may fund these modifications and the training required to use them.
What are Car Modifications for Disability?
Vehicle modifications disability supports refer to physical changes made to a car or van so you can drive, access, or travel in it safely. This does not include the cost of buying or leasing the vehicle itself, but rather the specialized equipment added to it.
Commonly funded modifications include:
- Modified controls for driving.
- Wheelchair hoists and passenger lifts.
- Modified restraints and specialized car seats.
- Structural changes for wheelchair access.
The NDIS also funds related costs, such as engineering certificates, extra insurance premiums due to modifications, and maintenance of the added equipment.
NDIS Line Items
| Line Item Number | Support Name |
| 05_0002_0109_1_2 | AT Supplementary Charge - Vehicle modifications |
| 05_121205811_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Accessories/Adaptions for driver control |
| 05_121208111_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Accessories/Adaptions for ancillary functions |
| 05_121209821_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Car Seating and/or Seat Belts - Modifier Installed |
| 05_121215811_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Passenger loading (without wheelchair) |
| 05_121218811_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Hoist for Occupied Wheelchair Loading |
| 05_121221811_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Hoist/Ramp for Unoccupied Wheelchair Loading |
| 05_121227121_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Modification for Wheelchair Passengers |
| 05_121227221_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Modification for Wheelchair Seated Driver |
| 05_121230811_0109_1_2 | Vehicles -Trailer for wheeled mobility device |
| 05_121290111_0109_1_2 | Vehicles - Professional Engineer Modification Certification |
| 05_501212373_0109_1_2 | Repairs and Maintenance - Vehicle Modification |
| 05_711000080_0109_1_2 | Delivery - Vehicle modifications AT |
Specialised Driver Training
For those looking to get behind the wheel, the NDIS may fund specialised driver training. This includes:
- Assessments by a driver-trained occupational therapist.
- Lessons with a specialized driving instructor to learn how to use new modifications.
Note: The NDIS does not fund standard driving lessons or supervision required to simply build up practice hours for a license.
NDIS Funding Criteria for Car Modifications
To include car modifications disability supports in your plan, the NDIS must determine they are "reasonable and necessary". They use several key questions to decide:
- Is it related to your disability? The support must be necessary because of what you can and cannot do due to your disability.
- Is it value for money? The NDIS considers the age and condition of the vehicle. Generally, it is not considered value for money to modify a vehicle older than 10 years.
- Is it safe and legal? Modifications must meet Australian standards and be confirmed by an engineering certificate.
How to Get Modifications in Your Plan
- Assessment: You must get an assessment from a driver-trained occupational therapist. They will recommend the specific modifications that suit your needs.
- Vehicle Suitability: You must own the vehicle or have regular access to it. If the vehicle is older than 5 years and out of warranty, you will need a vehicle condition report to prove it is worth modifying.
- Quotes:
- Low cost (<$1,500): Often available immediately with therapist advice.
- Mid cost ($1,500 - $15,000): Requires evidence and advice from your therapist.
- High cost (>$15,000): Requires an itemized quote and a detailed assessment.
Buying a Second-Hand Modified Vehicle
If you purchase a vehicle that is already modified, the NDIS cannot pay for the car itself, but they may pay for the current value of the disability modifications. This value is calculated based on depreciation. You will still need an occupational therapist to confirm the existing modifications are safe and appropriate for you.