Do I need an occupational therapist assessment for NDIS vehicle modifications?

Yes. An occupational therapist — specifically one with driver rehabilitation training — must assess your driving needs and prescribe the appropriate modifications. The OT assessment report is required by the NDIA as supporting evidence when you request vehicle modification funding in your plan. Without an OT report, the NDIA is unlikely to approve the funding.

Will the NDIS pay for my whole car if it needs modifications?

No. The NDIS funds vehicle modifications, not the purchase of a vehicle. If you need a different type of vehicle to accommodate your modifications (e.g. a van for a wheelchair hoist), you are responsible for the cost of the vehicle itself. Only the disability-specific modifications are funded by the NDIS.

How do I get vehicle modifications included in my NDIS plan?

To get vehicle modifications included in your NDIS plan: (1) Get a driver rehabilitation assessment from an OT with driving specialisation. (2) Obtain quotes from a registered vehicle modifier. (3) Submit the OT report and quotes to the NDIA, either at your planning meeting or as a plan review request. (4) If approved, the modification funding is added to your Capital Supports budget.

Can I get NDIS vehicle modifications if I am a passenger, not a driver?

Yes. NDIS vehicle modifications are not limited to drivers. If you are a passenger with a disability and need modifications to safely travel in a vehicle — for example, a wheelchair restraint system, hoist, or adapted seating — these may be funded by the NDIS. An OT assessment is still required to document your needs.

Who installs NDIS vehicle modifications?

Vehicle modifications must be installed by a qualified vehicle modifier. In Australia, modifiers must comply with the relevant Australian Design Rules (ADRs) and state licensing requirements. Your OT or the NDIA can help identify registered vehicle modifiers in your area. In Western Australia, check with Main Roads WA for licensing requirements.

Is NDIS vehicle modification funding once-off or ongoing?

Vehicle modifications are typically funded as a one-off Capital Support item in your NDIS plan. If your needs change and you require a different or updated modification, you can request a plan review with new OT evidence. Maintenance and repair of existing modifications may also be fundable — ask your NDIA planner or support coordinator.

NDIS Vehicle Modifications

The NDIS can fund vehicle and car modifications that are directly related to your disability. This guide explains what is funded, what evidence you need, and how to get modifications included in your plan.

Does the NDIS Fund Vehicle Modifications?

Yes — the NDIS funds vehicle modifications as part of Capital Supports: Assistive Technology. The modification must be:

✓ Directly related to your disability
✓ Assessed and prescribed by a qualified occupational therapist
✓ Considered reasonable and necessary by the NDIA
✓ Installed by a licensed vehicle modifier

Important: The NDIS funds modifications only — not the vehicle itself. If you need a different vehicle type to accommodate the modifications (e.g. a van), you purchase the vehicle yourself.

What Vehicle Modifications Can the NDIS Fund?

Driver Controls

· Hand controls (brake and accelerator)
· Left-foot accelerators
· Steering wheel modifications
· Indicator and horn extensions
· Electronic driving aids

Wheelchair Access

· Wheelchair hoists and lifts
· Ramps and boarding platforms
· Tie-down and restraint systems
· Kneeling or lowering suspension systems

Seating & Transfer

· Swivel seats
· Transfer boards and sliding aids
· Customised seating systems
· Headrests and postural supports

Passenger Adaptations

· Wheelchair passenger restraint systems
· Adapted child restraints
· Customised vehicle fitouts for carers
· Entry and exit assist handles

This list is not exhaustive. Any modification directly addressing a disability-related need may be considered by the NDIA with appropriate evidence.

What the NDIS Will NOT Fund

✗

The vehicle itself — Only the disability-specific modifications, not the car purchase price

✗

General vehicle maintenance — Servicing, tyres, registration — these are everyday living costs

✗

Modifications for non-disability reasons — The need must be directly linked to your disability

✗

Modifications already covered by another scheme — E.g. WorkCover or TAC where eligible

✗

Modifications without an OT assessment — Evidence of functional need is mandatory

How to Get Vehicle Modifications in Your NDIS Plan

Get a driver rehabilitation OT assessment

Find an occupational therapist who specialises in driver rehabilitation. They assess your driving ability, your disability's impact, and prescribe the specific modifications needed. This report is the key piece of evidence for your NDIS application.

Get quotes from a qualified vehicle modifier

Obtain at least one (preferably two) quotes from a licensed vehicle modifier for the prescribed modifications. The NDIA may request multiple quotes for higher-cost items.

Submit to the NDIA

Submit the OT report and quotes to the NDIA either at your planning meeting, plan review, or as a request between plan periods. Your support coordinator can help prepare the submission.

Await approval and engage your modifier

Once approved, the funding is added to your Capital Supports budget. Engage your chosen vehicle modifier to proceed with installation. Keep all receipts for your records.

The OT Assessment — Why It's the Critical Step

The NDIA requires an occupational therapist report before approving vehicle modification funding. Not just any OT — you need one with specific driver rehabilitation training and experience.

A driver rehabilitation OT will assess:

· Your current driving ability and how your disability affects it
· Whether you can continue to drive safely with modifications
· The specific modifications needed and at what specification
· Whether you are a driver or passenger and what each role requires

Ask your GP, specialist, or support coordinator for a referral to a driver rehabilitation OT. Occupational Therapy Australia maintains a register of specialists.