What higher-risk assistive technology is
Higher-risk assistive technology is an item, equipment or device that needs specialised advice to buy, set up and use safely.
You will generally need an assessment from an assistive technology advisor or assistive technology assessor to make sure you get the right item for your needs.
It might be a regulated item
Items regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration in Australia are considered higher-risk.
It may cause harm if used incorrectly
People can be injured if higher-risk assistive technology isn’t set up or used safely.
Tip: What is low-risk assistive technology?
Low-risk assistive technology comes with a low risk of harm when used in a daily living environment. They need very little advice or setup support from assistive technology advisors to use them safely. For example, a non-slip bathmat or a shower stool.
What higher-risk assistive technology is for
Higher-risk assistive technology is for equipment that is:
- complex, like a power wheelchair
- known to have caused harm
- used to restrict voluntary movement, like bed rails or weighted blankets.
Examples include:
- adjustable beds
- bed sticks and other transfer aids
- motor vehicle adaptions
- complex bathing and toileting devices
- pressure care devices
- prosthetics or orthotics
- devices to support breathing.
What higher-risk assistive technology is like
It doesn’t always depend on cost
High-cost assistive technology, like a powered wheelchair would be considered higher risk.
Some low-cost items can be higher risk, like bed poles and weighted blankets.
Understanding risk
We want to make sure you know how to use your assistive technology safely and understand any risks.
You need written advice to buy or rent higher-risk assistive technology.
Tip: Funding to find the right solution
Your plan will also include funding to seek advice from an assistive technology advisor if you have assistive technology funded in your plan.
Our guideline
- Download the Assistive technology guideline pdf file - PDF 290.21 KB
- Download the Assistive technology guideline docx file - DOCX 103.58 KB