In Australia, several government programs fund wheelchairs for eligible individuals. Depending on your age, disability, and funding situation, you may be able to get a wheelchair fully funded or substantially subsidised. Here's what's available and who qualifies for each pathway.
Can You Get a Free Wheelchair in Australia?
Yes — it's possible to get a wheelchair fully funded in Australia if you meet the eligibility criteria for one or more programs. Most funding pathways are means-tested or disability-tested: they need evidence that a wheelchair is necessary for your function, safety, or independence. In some cases, a wheelchair is funded on clinical recommendation alone.
The right pathway depends on your age, whether you have a disability, whether you're a veteran, and which state or territory you live in.
Funding Programs That Can Help
NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
If you're under 65 and have a permanent disability that significantly affects your daily function, the NDIS may fund a wheelchair under its Assistive Technology support category. You'll need an occupational therapist assessment and a supplier quote. For a full walkthrough of the process, see our guide on NDIS wheelchair funding.
DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs)
Australian veterans and war widows holding a DVA Gold Card or an eligible White Card may be entitled to a funded wheelchair through the Department of Veterans' Affairs. Your GP or specialist initiates the process through a referral. DVA has a network of approved mobility equipment suppliers. Contact DVA or speak with your GP about whether a wheelchair falls within your entitled conditions.
Support at Home (Replacing Home Care Packages from July 2025)
The Support at Home program replaced the Home Care Package (HCP) scheme from July 2025. Under this program, eligible Australians aged 65 and over (50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people) can receive funding for assistive equipment, including wheelchairs, as part of their care plan. Your aged care provider or case manager can assess whether a wheelchair fits your current support plan. If you haven't yet been assessed, contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to arrange one.
State and Territory Equipment Programs
Each state and territory runs its own equipment subsidy program for people with disabilities who don't qualify for NDIS. These programs vary in scope and eligibility, but all provide subsidised access to wheelchairs and other assistive equipment. Key programs include:
- NSW: Enable NSW (Equipment Program)
- VIC: SWEP (Statewide Equipment Program)
- QLD: Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (MASS)
- WA: Community Aids and Equipment Program (CAEP)
- SA: Disability Equipment Program (DEP)
- TAS: Equipment Program for People with a Disability (EPPD)
Contact your state program directly or speak with your GP or occupational therapist about a referral.
What to Do If You Don't Qualify for Funding
If you don't currently qualify for any of the above programs, self-funded options are still available. Quality manual wheelchairs start from around $400 to $600 for everyday use. Our guide on how much a wheelchair costs in Australia covers the full price range across manual and electric models.
Some not-for-profit organisations — including the Red Cross Aids for Daily Living program and local community health services — also offer low-cost equipment loans in certain areas. Check with your local council or community health centre.
Key takeaways:
- NDIS funds wheelchairs for eligible people under 65 with a permanent disability
- DVA covers eligible veterans and war widows through a GP referral
- Support at Home funds wheelchairs for Australians 65 and over through the aged care system
- Every state and territory has an equipment program for people who don't qualify for NDIS
Browse our full wheelchair range once you know which funding pathway applies to your situation.