Smart home technology has transformed the way people with disabilities live independently. If you're an NDIS participant, you may be eligible to access a range of assistive technologies through your plan, from voice-controlled lighting to automated doors and environmental control systems. This guide covers everything you need to know: what qualifies, how much it costs, how to get funding, and what to expect working with a provider in Perth.
What is Smart Home Assistive Technology?
Smart home assistive technology refers to devices and systems that automate and simplify everyday tasks at home. For NDIS participants, these tools can make a meaningful difference in:
- Daily independence: controlling lights, blinds, and appliances without physical effort
- Safety: smart locks, video doorbells, and emergency alert systems
- Communication: voice-controlled devices that connect you to family and emergency services
- Comfort: automated climate control and sensory environment management
- Reduced reliance on support workers: technology can bridge the gap between support visits
The key distinction is that assistive technology must directly address a functional impairment caused by your disability. It's not about convenience. It's about enabling you to do things you otherwise couldn't.
How NDIS Funds Smart Home Technology
Smart home technology is funded under Assistive Technology (AT) within the Capital Supports budget of your NDIS plan. The NDIS uses a tiered funding model based on cost:
| Tier | Cost | What's Required | |------|------|-----------------| | Low-cost AT | Under $1,500 | No prior NDIS approval, purchase directly | | Mid-cost AT | $1,500–$15,000 | OT assessment + provider quote | | High-cost AT | Over $15,000 | OT assessment + AT trial + NDIS approval |
An occupational therapist (OT) assessment is usually required for anything above the low-cost threshold. The OT must document how the technology addresses your specific functional limitation, and why it's the most appropriate solution.
Good news: Many popular smart home devices, smart plugs, voice-controlled bulbs, and basic hubs, fall under $1,500 and can often be accessed without prior NDIS approval. This makes it easy to get started quickly.
For a full explanation of how Assistive Technology fits within the broader Capital Supports budget, see our NDIS Capital Supports vs Assistive Technology guide.
Common Smart Home Technologies Funded by NDIS
Voice Control Systems
Control your lights, TV, fans, appliances, and more with simple voice commands. Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. Ideal for participants with limited mobility, fine motor challenges, fatigue conditions, or vision impairment.
Typical cost: Smart speaker hubs from $50–$200. Voice-compatible smart bulbs from $20–$50 each.
Automated Doors and Locks
Smart locks allow keyless entry via PIN, fingerprint, or smartphone app, eliminating the challenge of physical keys. Automated sliding doors and garage door openers provide wheelchair-friendly, hands-free access.
Typical cost: Smart locks from $250–$600. Automated door openers from $1,500–$4,000 (may qualify as Home Modification if installed permanently).
Video Intercoms and Doorbells
See and speak with visitors from anywhere in your home, or remotely via your phone. Particularly useful for participants who find it difficult to move quickly to answer the door, or who use a power wheelchair and can't easily reach a standard intercom.
Typical cost: Video doorbell kits from $150–$500. Wired intercom systems from $800–$3,000+.
Motorised Blinds and Curtains
Automate the opening and closing of blinds via app, timer, or voice, managing natural light and privacy effortlessly. Particularly useful for participants who experience fatigue or have limited upper limb function.
Typical cost: Motorised blind kits from $200–$600 per window. Whole-home solutions may fall under mid-cost AT or Home Modifications.
Environmental Control Units (ECU)
A single device or interface that lets you control multiple home systems: TV, fans, lights, air conditioning, and door locks through one hub. ECUs are compatible with switch access, eye-gaze devices, and voice input. Essential for participants with very limited motor function.
Typical cost: Entry-level ECU systems from $2,000–$5,000. Complex integrated systems $10,000–$30,000+ (high-cost AT pathway).
Smart Sensors and Fall Detection
Motion sensors, bed sensors, and wearable fall detection devices that can alert carers or emergency services automatically. Particularly valuable for participants living alone or with minimal overnight support.
Typical cost: Smart motion sensors from $30–$100 each. Wearable fall detection devices from $150–$800.
What Does a Full Smart Home Setup Cost?
A common question is: how much will this cost out of my NDIS plan? The answer depends on your needs, but here's a realistic breakdown for a typical Perth setup:
| Setup Type | Devices Included | Estimated NDIS Cost | |---|---|---| | Starter | Voice hub, 4–6 smart bulbs, smart plug | $300–$600 | | Standard | Voice hub, full lighting, smart lock, video doorbell | $1,200–$2,500 | | Advanced | All of above + motorised blinds, ECS, sensors | $5,000–$15,000 | | Complex (ECS) | Full environmental control, switch/eye-gaze integration | $15,000–$40,000+ |
Note: Installation costs may be separate and can sometimes be funded under Home Modifications if structural work is required.
Step-by-Step: How to Access Smart Home Technology Through NDIS
1. Talk to your NDIS planner or LAC
Let them know you're interested in assistive technology for your home. If AT funding isn't already in your plan, it can be added at your next plan review, but you may be able to request it sooner if your needs have changed.
2. Get an OT assessment
An occupational therapist will assess your home environment and functional needs. They'll:
- Identify which technologies would address your specific impairment
- Write a formal AT report with recommendations and cost justification
- Specify whether items should be funded as AT or Home Modifications
If you're not sure how to find an OT in Perth, your support coordinator can arrange a referral. Learn more in our OT Assessments guide.
3. Obtain quotes from a registered provider
For mid- and high-cost AT, you'll need a quote from a registered NDIS Assistive Technology provider. The quote should specify the exact products, installation, and any ongoing support costs.
Innogreen is a registered NDIS provider (4050064987) based in Perth. Our team works directly with OTs and participants to source, install, and configure smart home technology tailored to your goals.
4. Trial the technology (if required)
For high-cost AT, the NDIS may require a trial period before approving funding. This gives you the chance to test the equipment and confirm it's the right solution before committing. Your AT provider can facilitate a trial.
5. Purchase, install, and claim
Once approved, your AT provider installs the equipment and submits the invoice through your NDIS plan. Your plan manager or the NDIS direct portal handles payment.
Smart Home Technology in SDA Properties
If you're moving into or considering Specialist Disability Accommodation, smart home technology is often included as standard in purpose-built SDA homes. This means you may not need to fund it separately through your AT budget.
All Innogreen SDA properties in Perth are pre-wired with integrated smart home systems, including:
- Voice-controlled lighting and blinds (Alexa and Google compatible)
- Smart locks and video intercom at entry
- Automated climate control
- Infrastructure for ceiling hoist and additional AT integration
- Solar panels reducing energy costs
This is one of the major advantages of SDA housing over private rentals, the technology is built into the property from day one. Learn more about who qualifies for SDA housing.
Choosing the Right Smart Home AT Provider in Perth
Not all AT providers are equal. When choosing a provider, look for:
- NDIS registration: they must be registered to claim through your plan
- Experience with disability-specific setups: not just a generic electronics retailer
- Willingness to work with your OT: a good provider collaborates with your therapist
- Local presence: someone who can attend your home for installation and troubleshooting
- Ongoing support: technology needs maintenance; confirm what's included post-installation
At Innogreen, our team specialises in smart home AT for NDIS participants in Perth. We work closely with occupational therapists, support coordinators, and participants to design systems that genuinely improve daily independence, not just add gadgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get smart home technology without an OT assessment? Yes, for low-cost AT under $1,500, you don't need prior approval or an OT report. You can purchase items directly and claim through your Core or Capital Supports budget (check with your plan manager). Above $1,500, an OT assessment is usually required.
What if my NDIS plan doesn't have AT funding? Request AT funding at your next plan review. Bring an OT report that clearly explains what you need and why. If your needs have changed significantly, you may be able to request an early plan review.
Can smart home tech be funded through Core Supports instead of Capital? Generally, no. Assistive technology is a Capital Support. However, some consumable/low-cost items may be treated differently. Your plan manager or support coordinator can clarify what's in your specific plan.
Do I own the technology if I move? For portable devices (smart speakers, plugs, bulbs), yes, you take them with you. For installed equipment (wired intercoms, automated door openers), it may stay with the property, particularly if it was funded as a Home Modification.
Can a smart home setup work without strong internet? Many devices require Wi-Fi to function. If your current internet is unreliable, this should be factored into your AT assessment. In SDA properties, internet infrastructure is typically included.
Ready to Get Started?
For a deeper look at the specific technologies available, including voice control, automated lighting, fall detection, and environmental control systems, read our detailed guide: Smart Home Technology for NDIS Participants: Voice Control, Automation, and More.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help you access smart home technology through your NDIS plan. Our team is based in Perth and works with NDIS participants across WA.