Equipment
Physical disabilities often prevent children doing many of the everyday things that others take for granted. However in many cases, these barriers can be overcome by the use of special equipment. Getting hold of the right equipment can take time and there are many steps involved in choosing and obtaining equipment, some of which are briefly outlined below.
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Working out what equipment is needed
The therapist will discuss the equipment needs of the child with the main care-givers:
- The parent or child
- A teacher
- A carer of the child
- The child's doctor.
The therapist may need to do an assessment to help work which equipment will suit the child’s needs, and any special features required.
What equipment is available?
Therapists are familiar with a wide range of equipment. Some examples of the different types of equipment include:
Mobility equipment
Click on pictures to see larger image.
Orthoses and splints, such as:
Go to the Orthotics Department - NovitaTech website
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Other positioning equipment, such as:
- Standing frames
- Corner chairs
Go to the Seating & Mobility section of the NovitaTech website
Equipment for personal care, such as:
- Shower chairs
- Bath inserts and change tables
- Hoists/person lifters and slings
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Home alterations, such as:
- Ramps
- Some bathroom modifications
Communication equipment, such as:
Computer equipment which may include:
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Where to look for equipment?
The Equipment Services department at Novita reconditions and stores previously used equipment. In the first instance therapists check for suitable reconditioned equipment that could be modified to suit the child and their needs. This often enables equipment to be provided quickly and at low cost. Where no reconditioned equipment is available, the therapist assists the client and their carer to investigate new equipment. This may involve:
- Searching the Independent Living Centre database
- Visiting the Independent Living Centre to look at or try out equipment
- Visiting suppliers
- Looking on the Internet
- Searching equipment catalogues and brochures.
View a map showing the location of the Independent Living Centre (Note: Time to display depends on the speed of your internet connection)
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Who pays for equipment?
There are strict rules that need to be followed by the therapist who assists with the process of obtaining equipment or modifying existing equipment. Once it has been decided what equipment or modifications are needed, the therapist obtains a quote from a supplier, and the request then goes onto a waiting list. There is a priority rating system that is used to determine the urgency of the equipment and its position on the waiting list.
The government funded Independent Living Equipment Program (ILEP) funds some types of equipment for use at home and in the community. Some equipment required for use at government schools is provided by the Special Education Resource Unit (SERU). Depending on the type of equipment being ordered, there may be other funding sources that can be accessed – therapists can provide this information.
For more information, view the factsheet 
Equipment for Children - Who Pays? (PDF - 66Kb).
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Good maintenance will deliver the best use of the equipment. Users are responsible for making sure that equipment is maintained in good order, kept clean and that any electrical equipment is maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions (for example, charging the battery on a powered wheelchair). To remind you what to look for, read the fact sheet Equipment Maintenance Checklist (PDF - 36Kb).
Your therapist and supplier will show you how to use and care for the equipment - ask for a maintenance brochure from the supplier (if one is available).
Brochures on care and use of some equipment are also available from the Independent Living Centre website
- Equipment funded by the Independent Living and Equipment Program can be repaired by calling ILEC (the Independent Living Equipment Contractor) on (08) 8266 5260, or 1800 800 523 toll free for country clients.
- Novita will fund repairs for Novita-owned equipment. Speak to your therapist about how to arrange repairs.
- Self-funded equipment repairs are the responsibility of the user.
- For equipment funded by service clubs, or other sources, speak to your therapist.
Damage to equipment resulting from misuse or intentional damage may not be covered.
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Equipment risks
Some equipment may need to be used with special care to reduce the risk of injury. Manufacturers written instructions for use and care of the equipment should be followed carefully, as should any verbal instructions given by the therapist and/or supplier.
Examples of risks may include:
Novita, being aware of the legal issues around equipment, will wherever possible, recommend equipment that meets Australian standards. When this is not possible, therapists will notify you. Read more about about Australian equipment standards
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For further information
Jarred's new wheelchair - Read Jarred's experience of getting his new chair
Disclaimer Detail: The above information on is of a general nature only and does not constitute advice. Novita Children's Services makes no representations, express or implied, as to the accuracy, usefulness, suitability or application of the information to a child's particular circumstances. Use of the information above is at your sole risk, and you should seek professional advice before acting or relying on the information. Novita Children's Services accepts no liability for any damages or loss that may arise from the use of, or any omission from, the information provided. In using this site, you are agreeing to the Terms and Conditions of Use for the site.