What AAC is
AAC is any way of communicating that supports or replaces spoken words. Augmentative means it adds to speech you already have. Alternative means it is used instead of speech. Many people use several kinds at once, depending on the place and the person they are talking to.
AAC is not a last resort, and it does not stop speech developing. For many children and adults it opens up communication, choices and relationships.
Types of AAC
- Unaided: gestures, facial expressions, key word signing and Auslan
- Low tech: picture symbols, communication boards and books, and alphabet boards
- Mainstream technology: a tablet or phone running a dedicated communication app
- Dedicated speech generating devices: devices built for communication that speak out loud
- Alternative access: switches, head pointers or eye gaze technology for people who cannot use their hands to touch a screen
How the NDIS funds AAC
AAC devices are assistive technology, so the NDIA's assistive technology rules apply. The evidence you need depends on the cost of each item:
- Low cost, under $1,500: you can tell the NDIA what you need at your planning meeting and it is funded from your Core budget. For higher risk items you need written advice from an assistive technology advisor before you buy
- Mid cost, $1,500 to $15,000: you need written evidence from an assistive technology advisor, such as your speech pathologist, describing the item, how it helps, why it is the best value and roughly what it costs. No quote is needed. The NDIA gives alternative communication devices as an example of mid cost AT
- High cost, over $15,000: you need an assessment from an assistive technology assessor and a quote
Tablets, phones and apps
Many people use an iPad or other tablet with a communication app. Tablets, smartphones and apps for accessibility or communication are on the NDIA's list of replacement supports. That means you must apply and get the NDIA's written approval before using NDIS funding to buy one, and the item has to replace an NDIS support in your plan, help you as much or more, and cost the same or less.
A dedicated speech generating device is different, because it is built only for communication. Your speech pathologist can explain which option suits you and what evidence to provide.
The role of your speech pathologist
A speech pathologist experienced in AAC usually leads the process. They assess your communication, help you trial options, recommend a system, write the evidence for your plan, set up vocabulary and train you, your family, school or workers to use it.
This therapy 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 a plan is created, reassessed or renewed, so plan therapy hours with this in mind. The device itself sits in your Core or Capital budget, depending on cost, and is not part of that reset.
Tips for getting the right system
- Trial before you buy. The NDIA can fund AT trial and rental
- Think about where it will be used, such as school, work, outdoors or in bed, and how it will be charged and carried
- Plan for training for the people around you, not just the person using it
- Ask about repairs, cases, mounts and backups, so communication does not stop if something breaks
- Keep your advisor's written advice. The NDIA may ask for it later