NDIS electric wheelchair funding / How to get an electric wheelchair through NDIS

Electric Wheelchair Funding, Costs & NDIS Guide Australia (2026)

Electric wheelchairs can significantly reduce physical strain and support safer movement throughout daily activities for people living with disability, injury or age-related mobility limitations.

One of the most common questions Australians ask is:

How much does an electric wheelchair cost, and can the NDIS help cover it?

This guide explains electric wheelchair pricing in Australia, NDIS funding pathways, eligibility considerations and how to choose the right powered mobility solution for long-term use.

Explore Electric Wheelchairs Available in Australia

Electric Wheelchair Costs in Australia

Electric wheelchair prices vary depending on functionality, seating support, battery range, portability and the level of customisation required.

The right wheelchair depends on where and how it will be used, including indoor mobility, outdoor terrain, transport requirements and seating needs.

What Affects the Cost of an Electric Wheelchair?

Several factors influence the price of a power wheelchair:

• Battery size and travel range — most standard models offer 15–30 km per charge; longer-range or all-terrain models can reach 40 km+
• Weight capacity and frame strength
• Seating comfort and positioning support
• Foldability and transport convenience
• Indoor and outdoor performance
• Joystick and control system options
• Advanced features such as tilt, recline or standing
• Level of clinical customisation (standard vs scripted)

Users requiring full-time seating support or complex mobility assistance often require more advanced wheelchair configurations.

Learn How Wheelchair Joystick Systems Work

Popular Electric Wheelchair Options

Lightweight Folding Electric Wheelchairs

Folding electric wheelchairs are designed for users requiring compact storage, portability and easier transport.

View Air Hawk Foldable Electric Wheelchair

• Fits into most vehicle boots
• Suitable for travel and appointments
• Compact folding frame
• Popular for everyday mobility

Users comparing travel-friendly wheelchairs may also find this guide useful:

Air Hawk vs Falcon Electric Wheelchair Comparison

Reclining Electric Wheelchairs

Reclining electric wheelchairs allow users to adjust seating position throughout the day, improving comfort during longer sitting periods.

View Falcon Reclining Electric Wheelchair

Heavy-Duty Electric Wheelchairs

Heavy-duty power wheelchairs provide reinforced support and increased durability for users requiring higher weight capacities.

View Heavy-Duty Electric Wheelchair

Users requiring bariatric mobility support may also benefit from reading:

What Is a Bariatric Wheelchair?

All Terrain Electric Wheelchairs

All-terrain wheelchairs are designed for outdoor mobility and uneven surfaces.

View All Terrain Electric Wheelchair

Scripted Electric Wheelchairs

Scripted electric wheelchairs are clinically prescribed models configured to a specific user’s needs by an occupational therapist. Unlike off-the-shelf models, scripted chairs are selected and set up based on a formal clinical assessment — and are the primary category of electric wheelchair funded through the NDIS Assistive Technology pathway.

Scripted models can be customised for joystick placement, seating support, tilt, recline, headrest, leg rests, and other positioning requirements. They are recommended for users who need full-time powered mobility, have complex seating needs, or are applying for NDIS mid or high-cost assistive technology funding.

View Scripted and Crash-Tested Wheelchairs

Can the NDIS Fund an Electric Wheelchair?

In many cases, the NDIS may fund an electric wheelchair if it is considered reasonable and necessary for the participant’s disability-related mobility needs.

Funding assessments may consider:

• Safety and accessibility requirements
• Improved independence and mobility
• Clinical recommendations from an OT or treating health professional
• Long-term mobility support needs
• Participation in daily activities

Each participant is assessed individually under the NDIS Guidelines.

Not yet funded but need a chair now? While waiting for NDIS approval, wheelchair hire is available as an interim solution — and in some cases, interim hire can also be funded under NDIS Assistive Technology Low Cost.

How to Get an Electric Wheelchair Through the NDIS

1. Occupational Therapist Assessment – An OT evaluates mobility, seating and accessibility requirements.
2. Clinical Recommendation – A suitable wheelchair is recommended based on individual needs.
3. Supplier Quote – A detailed NDIS-compliant quote and product specifications are prepared by a registered supplier.
4. Submission to the NDIS – Documentation is submitted for review and approval.
5. Approval and Delivery – The wheelchair is supplied, fitted and adjusted for the user.

Providing detailed clinical documentation often improves approval outcomes. As a registered NDIS provider, Gilani Engineering works directly with participants, support coordinators, and occupational therapists throughout this process.

Request an NDIS Wheelchair Quote

Lightweight Folding Electric Wheelchairs for Travel

One of the fastest-growing categories in Australia is the lightweight folding electric wheelchair. These models are designed for users who require powered mobility while maintaining the ability to transport the wheelchair in a vehicle.

Unlike traditional power wheelchairs, folding electric wheelchairs can often be folded within seconds and stored in the boot of a car. This makes them particularly popular for travel, medical appointments, shopping centres and everyday community access.

Many users choose a folding electric wheelchair because it offers a balance between independence, portability and comfort without requiring vehicle modifications or specialised transport equipment.

Explore our range of electric wheelchairs including lightweight folding models suitable for travel and everyday use.

Additional Costs to Consider

Some users may also require:

• Pressure relief cushions
• Custom posture support
• Battery replacements
• Joystick customisation
• Vehicle loading equipment
• Servicing and maintenance

Users requiring specialised seating support may also benefit from:

Custom Wheelchair Posture Support Solutions

For broader home accessibility support, Gilani Engineering also supplies bathroom and toilet aids, bedroom mobility equipment and patient transfer aids.

Should You Buy a Second Hand Electric Wheelchair?

Some users consider second hand electric wheelchairs to reduce upfront costs. However, used wheelchairs may include:

• Battery wear and reduced range
• Unknown maintenance history
• Limited warranty coverage
• Hidden mechanical issues
• Limited spare parts availability

For long-term reliability and safety, many users choose newer wheelchairs with warranty protection and ongoing servicing support.

Users unsure which wheelchair suits their needs may also benefit from exploring wheelchair hire options before purchasing.

How to Choose the Right Electric Wheelchair

Choosing the correct wheelchair depends on:

• Indoor vs outdoor use
• Daily sitting duration
• Weight capacity requirements
• Transport and storage needs
• Comfort and posture support
• Battery range — how far you need to travel per day between charges
• Whether a standard or scripted (clinically configured) model is required

Users comparing powered mobility equipment may also find these guides useful:

• Best Electric Wheelchairs Australia
• Electric Wheelchairs vs Mobility Scooters
• Electric Wheelchair Winter Safety Tips
• Electric Wheelchair Troubleshooting

Electric Wheelchair Travel and Accessibility

Users travelling regularly should consider transport safety, folding capability and vehicle accessibility requirements.

Gilani Engineering also provides wheelchair vehicle modification solutions designed to improve transport accessibility.

The NSW Government has also published a wheelchair vehicle travel fact sheet covering wheelchair transport safety information.

Electric Wheelchair Funding Beyond the NDIS

While many Australians access funding through the NDIS, other funding pathways may be available depending on your age, circumstances, and state of residence. Seeking professional advice from an OT or support coordinator can help identify the most appropriate pathway.

Support at Home (aged care — replaced Home Care Packages from 1 November 2025)

For Australians aged 65 and over, the federal government’s Support at Home program — which replaced Home Care Packages and the Commonwealth Home Support Programme from 1 November 2025 — may provide funding towards mobility equipment including electric wheelchairs. Access is through My Aged Care, with eligibility assessed through an independent aged care assessment. Those previously on a Home Care Package were automatically transitioned to a Support at Home classification on 1 November 2025.

Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)

Eligible veterans, war widows and widowers, and their dependants may access electric wheelchair funding through the DVA’s Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP). Funding requires a GP referral, OT assessment, and DVA approval. Gold Card and White Card holders may be eligible depending on their accepted conditions. Gilani Engineering works with DVA and can provide documentation to support RAP applications.

iCare (NSW — workers compensation and motor accident injuries)

iCare provides support to people who have been severely injured at work or in a motor accident in NSW, through the Lifetime Care and Support Scheme and the Workers Care Program. Mobility equipment including electric wheelchairs may be funded where assessed as reasonable and necessary for the individual’s rehabilitation and daily living needs.

State and territory equipment schemes

Each state and territory operates its own aids and equipment program for people not covered by the NDIS. These programs provide subsidised funding towards mobility equipment including power wheelchairs:

• NSW — EnableNSW
• VIC — State-wide Equipment Program (SWEP)
• QLD — Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (MASS)
• SA — South Australian Equipment Program (SAEP)
• WA — Community Aids and Equipment Program (CAEP)

Eligibility criteria, subsidy levels, and application processes vary by program. An OT assessment and referral is generally required to access these schemes.

Workers compensation schemes

People injured at work may be eligible for mobility equipment funding through their state’s workers compensation scheme, separate from iCare in NSW. Consult with your treating health professional or rehabilitation provider.

Private health insurance

Some private health insurance extras policies include a contribution towards mobility aids. Check your policy details and contact your insurer to confirm eligible equipment and claim limits.

Funding eligibility varies depending on individual circumstances, mobility requirements and program guidelines. Our team works with participants, support coordinators, OTs, iCare, and DVA across Australia — contact us to discuss your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an electric wheelchair cost in Australia?

Electric wheelchairs typically range from around $2,000 to over $20,000 depending on functionality, seating support and performance.

Can the NDIS pay for an electric wheelchair?

Yes. The NDIS may fund a power wheelchair if it is considered reasonable and necessary under the participant’s plan.

Do I need an occupational therapist assessment?

In many cases, yes — especially for mid or high-cost assistive technology equipment and for NDIS, DVA, and state equipment scheme applications.

What is a scripted electric wheelchair?

A scripted wheelchair is a clinically prescribed model configured to a specific user’s needs by an occupational therapist. Scripted chairs are the primary category funded through NDIS mid and high-cost assistive technology, and can be customised for seating, positioning, joystick placement, tilt, recline, and other clinical requirements.

Are folding electric wheelchairs good for travel?

Yes. Folding electric wheelchairs are commonly used for transport, appointments and everyday portability.

Can electric wheelchairs be used outdoors?

Yes. Many electric wheelchairs are designed for both indoor and outdoor mobility depending on terrain and user requirements.

What is the best electric wheelchair for travel?

Lightweight folding electric wheelchairs are often preferred for travel because they are easier to transport, store and load into vehicles.

How long do electric wheelchair batteries last?

Battery lifespan varies depending on usage, maintenance and battery type. Many users can expect several years of service with appropriate care and charging practices. Most standard models offer 15–30 km of range per charge.

Can I take an electric wheelchair on a plane?

Many electric wheelchairs can be transported on aircraft, however airline requirements vary. Always confirm battery type, watt-hour rating and transport requirements with the airline before travelling.

Can I get interim funding while waiting for NDIS approval?

Yes. Wheelchair hire is available while waiting for NDIS approval. In some cases, interim wheelchair hire may also be fundable under NDIS Assistive Technology Low Cost. Contact our team to discuss your situation.

Need Help Choosing the Right Electric Wheelchair?

Gilani Engineering supports users, carers, occupational therapists and aged care providers with practical powered mobility solutions across Australia.

Contact Gilani Engineering for electric wheelchair advice, NDIS quotes and mobility equipment recommendations.

Practical guidance. Better mobility. Long-term support.