Can I Get Funding To Buy A Portable Lift In Australia?

Planning to buy a portable lift in Australia? Looking for any fiancial assistances?

Australia has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. However, there are still gaps that needed to be addressed. For instance, people with disability, particularly those involving motor functions, would need assistance throughout most of their lives. Even it becomes an essential equipment for apartments, multi-floor houses, etc.

While disability comes in many forms, 23% need some type of mobility support, 24% and 22% need assistance in household chores and transportation, respectively. Another 27% require assistance with property maintenance. This is a great challenge for those who live alone to be independent.

Buy A Portable Lift In Australia

The use of portable lifts and stairlifts would significantly make their lives easier. The equipment will allow them to go up and down stairs even without any help. Except on rare occasions, their carer would not have to carry them to move around.

However, the cost of installing a stairlift can be very prohibitive. For example, you are looking at between $4,000 and $10,000. It depends on the height of your staircase and the complexity of the installation. The weight capacity of the chair will also be taken into consideration when computing costs.

While portable lifts are more economical because they involve fewer machine parts but they still involve a significant investment. Unfortunately, the equipment is not covered by Medicare since it is not considered a medical necessity.

Fortunately, you still have some options if you have some mobility problems and could not afford the high cost.

1. National Disability Insurance Scheme

It is a government program that helps people who have permanent or significant disability. According to its website, some $22 billion in funds are allocated to help about 500,000 Australians. You need to show that your disability is preventing you from living a productive and independent life. You need to be at least seven years old but not more than 65 years old. Senior citizens are excluded from NDIS because they already have a dedicated program.

2. My Aged Care

The program is designed for seniors over 65 years of age. The program has several types of assistance support for the elderly, which also includes a pension or payment for their carer. However, there are two types that may apply to you:

• Mobility allowance — The assistance will cover Australians who could not use public transportation due to your disability.
• Disability Support Pension — You can receive financial support if you can show that you have a permanent physical condition that restricts your ability to move or work.

Both the NDIS and My Aged Care require a medical assessment from the certified doctor. Somebody will come over to your house for an interview and a full health checkup to determine your needs. You may also inquire from charity organisations to see if they have some form of grants for your needs. Parents with kids, for example, may inquire from the Association for Children with Disability if they can help purchase portable lifts.

Final Words

It can be challenging to secure some funding assistance so that you can buy your personal stairlift or portable lift. But you simply need to be patient. Although you can apply online, you can also ask the help of a family member or a friend for tasks that require you to move around.