Prosthetics and orthotics explained
A prosthesis replaces a body part that is missing, wholly or in part, such as a below knee or upper limb prosthesis. An orthosis supports or corrects a part of the body that is there, such as an ankle foot orthosis, a hand splint, a spinal brace or custom made foot orthoses.
The NDIS supports rules describe these as assistive products applied to the outside of the body that help you control and use your muscles, bones and joints.
What the NDIS can fund
When they relate to your disability and are reasonable and necessary, the NDIS can fund:
- Assessment and prescription by a qualified prosthetist, orthotist, pedorthist, podiatrist, or an occupational therapist trained in that product
- Design, manufacture and fitting of customised functional prosthetics and orthotics
- External osseointegrated products, which attach to an implant in the bone
- Training so you can use the device well
- Maintenance, spare parts and consumables specific to the device, such as liners and socks
Who to see
For an artificial limb you will usually work with a prosthetist. For braces, splints and ankle foot orthoses, an orthotist is the usual specialist. For feet and custom footwear, a podiatrist or pedorthist often assesses and prescribes. Physiotherapists and occupational therapists frequently work alongside them on walking, function and training.
Ask the practitioner what they recommend, why, how long it is expected to last, and what it will cost to make and maintain. That information is what the NDIA needs to decide your request.
How funding works
Prosthetics and orthotics are assistive technology, so they usually sit in the Capital assistive technology budget of your plan. The evidence needed depends on the cost of the item. Lower cost items need less paperwork, while a high cost limb needs an assessment and a quote before the NDIA approves it.
Practitioner time for assessment and fitting is often claimed against your plan too, for example podiatry at up to $188.99 an hour in 2026/27, a price limit that is higher in remote areas. Check your service agreement and ask for a written quote before work starts.
What the NDIS does not pay for
- Standard clothing and footwear, which are day to day living costs, even if you need a size or style that suits your orthoses
- Devices provided as part of rehabilitation after a recent surgery or medical event, which the health system is responsible for
- Equipment prescribed and given out by a hospital as part of clinical treatment unrelated to your disability
- Products that do not meet Australian Standards
Repairs, adjustments and replacements
Bodies change, especially for children who are growing, so devices often need adjustments, new liners or sockets, and eventually replacement. Keep a record of fittings and problems, and raise growth or changes in your condition early, so the funding is in your plan when you need it.
Prosthetics, orthotics and the 2026 changes
Assistive technology in your Capital budget is not one of the two categories reduced by the October 2026 funding reset. The government has also consulted on new NDIS supports rules that would place prosthetics and orthotics in a broader category called assistive technology assets. That is a proposal, and it is not intended to stop funding for these devices.