What an AAC assessment is
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is any way of communicating that adds to or replaces speech, from signs and picture boards to apps and dedicated speech generating devices. An AAC assessment is the process of finding the right mix for one person.
It is not a single test. It is usually a series of sessions where the speech pathologist gets to know the person, tries options, and gathers evidence about what works. The result is a recommendation, and, where a device is needed, the written evidence for the NDIA.
Who does it
A speech pathologist experienced in AAC usually leads. Under the NDIS, speech pathology must be delivered by a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist. If the person cannot easily touch a screen, an occupational therapist or physiotherapist often joins in to work out access and positioning, such as switches, eye gaze, mounts on a wheelchair or seating.
Ask how often the speech pathologist prescribes AAC and which systems they know well. Device suppliers can lend equipment and help with set up, but the clinical recommendation should come from the therapist.
What the assessment looks at
- How the person communicates now, including gestures, sounds, behaviour, signs and any speech
- What they understand, and what they want to be able to say
- Where communication happens: home, school, work, community, in bed or outdoors
- Physical access: hands, switches, head pointing or eye gaze
- Vision, hearing and literacy
- Who the communication partners are, and how much training they need
- Practical needs such as size, weight, battery life, mounting and durability
Device trials
Trialling is the heart of an AAC assessment, and the best evidence that a system will work. Some suppliers lend a device at no cost. Longer trials, or ones that need a supplier to travel and set things up, may cost money, and NDIS funds can generally be used for those costs. Where a trial is needed, the NDIA can include trial funding in your Capital budget.
If you need funding to trial a mid cost item, you do not need a quote, but you do need to explain why the trial is needed and how long it should run. Trials work best with clear goals, such as making requests, joining in a conversation or saying no, and with notes from the people who used the device with the person. Some suppliers offer trial to buy arrangements, where the trial cost comes off the price.
Turning the assessment into NDIS funding
Communication devices are assistive technology, so the evidence the NDIA needs depends on the cost of the item:
- Under $1,500: low cost AT, usually no formal evidence to get it in your plan
- $1,500 to $15,000: mid cost AT. Written evidence from an assistive technology advisor such as your speech pathologist, describing the item, how it helps, why it is best value and roughly what it costs. No quote is needed
- Over $15,000: high cost AT. An assessment from an assistive technology assessor and a quote
- Tablets, phones and apps are replacement supports, which need the NDIA's written approval before you buy
What it costs and who pays
The speech pathologist's time, including sessions, trials and writing the report, is charged at up to the NDIS price limit of $193.99 an hour in 2026/27 in most of Australia. It is usually paid from the improved daily living skills part of your Capacity Building budget. Since 1 October 2026 that budget is reduced by 10% when your plan is created, reassessed or renewed, so ask for an estimate of hours before you start.
The device and trial costs come from your Core or Capital budget, depending on cost, and are not part of the October 2026 reset. The NDIA publishes a general assistive technology assessment template. It is not compulsory, but the evidence must cover everything it asks for.
Tips for families and supporters
- Keep a short diary of how the person communicates now, and moments when they could not get their message across
- Take part in trials and write down what worked, in which places and with whom
- Ask for a plan for training family, school staff and support workers, not just the device
- Ask what happens if the device breaks, and whether a low tech backup is included
- Read the report before it goes to the NDIA, and check it matches any quote exactly