Your Complete Funding Guide
Everything you need to know about funding your Aware Guardian system, including step-by-step processes, eligibility criteria, and expert tips for success.
Complete Guide to Aged Care Technology Funding in Australia 2025
Everything you need to know about funding your Aware Guardian system through NDIS, Home Care Packages, DVA, and other government programs
Understanding Your Funding Options in Australia
Accessing assistive technology like the Aware Guardian doesn't have to be financially challenging. Australia offers several government-funded programs designed to help individuals maintain independence and safety at home. Understanding which option suits your circumstances is the first step toward securing funding for your monitoring system.
NDIS Funding
The National Disability Insurance Scheme provides funding for assistive technology to people with permanent and significant disability under 65 (or existing participants over 65).
- Covers 100% of approved costs
- Hardware + installation included
- Ongoing costs can be covered
- Approval time: 4-8 weeks
Home Care Packages
Government-subsidized packages (Levels 1-4) for older Australians who want to stay in their own homes. Technology funding is available across all levels.
- Available for 65+ (or 50+ Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander)
- Flexible budget allocation
- Can use unspent funds
- Approval time: 2-4 weeks
Private Purchase
Direct purchase option for anyone not eligible for government funding, or those who need immediate access without waiting for approvals.
- Immediate availability
- Flexible payment plans (3-12 months)
- Full ownership from day one
- Can transition to funded later
Which Option is Right for You?
Choose NDIS if: You're under 65 with a permanent disability, already have an NDIS plan, or are eligible to apply. The NDIS offers the most comprehensive funding coverage.
Choose Home Care Packages if: You're 65 or older (or 50+ if Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander), need aged care services, and have completed an ACAT assessment or are willing to do so.
Choose Private Purchase if: You need immediate access, don't qualify for government programs yet, or prefer full ownership and control over your system without ongoing funding requirements.
Many of our customers combine these options or transition between them as their circumstances change. For example, you might start with a private purchase for immediate protection, then transition to NDIS or Home Care Package funding once approved. Our team can guide you through whichever pathway works best for your situation.
NDIS Assistive Technology: How Smart Sensors Qualify
The NDIS recognizes assistive technology as essential equipment that helps participants achieve their plan goals around independence, safety, and community participation. The Aware Guardian falls under several NDIS categories, making it highly eligible for funding approval.
Assistive Technology Budget Category
The Aware Guardian is classified as Assistive Technology under the NDIS framework. This is equipment that helps you do things you can't do because of your disability, or helps you do them more easily or safely. Fall detection and monitoring systems fit squarely in this category.
What's Covered:
- Hardware costs (Aware Guardian sensors at $399 each, GST-inclusive)
- Professional installation ($150 per sensor)
- Setup and configuration
- Training for you and your support network
Core Supports - Daily Activities
If you have Core Supports funding in your NDIS plan, the monthly subscription ($39.99/month) can often be covered under this budget category. This is because the monitoring service supports your daily living activities and reduces risks associated with living independently.
What's Covered:
- Monthly monitoring subscription ($39.99/month)
- Cloud storage and data management
- Mobile app access for support network
- Ongoing technical support
Capital Supports
In some cases, particularly for more extensive home modifications or facility installations, the Aware Guardian system may be funded under Capital Supports. This applies when the technology is considered a longer-term investment in your living environment.
When Capital Supports Apply:
- Large-scale installations (10+ sensors)
- Permanent home modifications required
- Integrated building systems
- Supported accommodation environments
Meeting NDIS "Reasonable and Necessary" Criteria
The NDIS will fund supports that are "reasonable and necessary." The Aware Guardian meets these criteria because it:
Working with Your Support Team
Your Support Coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) can help determine which budget category best fits your situation. We provide comprehensive documentation to make their job easier:
- Detailed quotes with cost breakdowns
- Product specifications and TGA registration
- Clinical evidence and research studies
- Letters of justification aligned with plan goals
Home Care Package Levels: Finding Your Fit
Home Care Packages come in four levels, each with increasing funding amounts to match different care needs. The good news? The Aware Guardian can be funded through any package level, though higher levels offer more flexibility for comprehensive systems.
Level 1
~$9,000/yearFor people with basic care needs who can mostly manage independently but need some support.
Aware Guardian Coverage:
Can typically cover a basic 2-3 sensor system covering bedroom, bathroom, and main living area. Ideal for apartment or small unit dwellers with straightforward monitoring needs.
- • 2 sensors (~$1,098 hardware + installation)
- • Monthly subscription from ongoing budget
- • Basic configuration and training
Level 2
~$16,000/yearFor people with low-level care needs who need some support to stay independent.
Aware Guardian Coverage:
Can cover a comprehensive 3-4 sensor system with room to spare. Suitable for larger apartments or small houses with multiple areas to monitor.
- • 4 sensors (~$2,196 hardware + installation)
- • Monthly subscription fully covered
- • Comprehensive training package
Level 3
~$34,000/yearFor people with intermediate care needs who need regular support to stay at home.
Aware Guardian Coverage:
Can easily cover a full 5-7 sensor system for larger homes or properties with multiple levels. Provides excellent fall protection across entire living space.
- • 6 sensors (~$3,294 hardware + installation)
- • Monthly subscription covered
- • Extended warranty options
- • Priority technical support
Level 4
~$52,000/yearFor people with high care needs who need a lot of support to stay at home.
Aware Guardian Coverage:
Can cover extensive multi-room systems (8+ sensors) or multiple properties. Perfect for large homes, properties with outdoor areas, or granny flats requiring monitoring.
- • 8-10 sensors (full property coverage)
- • Monthly subscription covered
- • Professional monitoring service
- • Annual system reviews and upgrades
Making the Most of Your Package Budget
Many package recipients have unspent funds because they're not using all their allocated support hours. The Aware Guardian is an excellent way to use these funds for equipment that provides 24/7 protection - often more cost-effective than additional care hours.
Budget Allocation Tips: Discuss with your package provider about reallocating funds from underutilized services to technology. For example, if you're not using all your domestic assistance hours, some of that budget might be redirected toward monitoring technology that reduces your overall care needs.
The Approval Process
Discuss with Your Provider
Contact your Home Care Package provider or case manager. Explain your need for fall detection and monitoring technology.
Get a Quote
We provide a detailed quote showing how the Aware Guardian supports your care plan goals. Your provider reviews this against your available budget.
Care Plan Update
Once approved, the technology is added to your care plan. The cost is deducted from your package funds on an agreed schedule.
Installation & Training
We schedule installation at your convenience and provide comprehensive training for you and your support network. Typical timeframe: 2-4 weeks total.
DVA & Other Government Funding Programs
Beyond NDIS and Home Care Packages, several other government programs may help fund your Aware Guardian system. These options are often overlooked but can provide valuable financial assistance for eligible individuals.
DVA (Department of Veterans' Affairs)
For Australian veterans
Veterans with a Gold or White Repatriation Health Card may be eligible for assistance with aids and appliances through DVA. The Aware Guardian can be considered as a safety aid that helps you remain independent at home.
Eligibility:
- Hold a DVA Gold or White card
- Receiving treatment for accepted disabilities
- Equipment relates to your accepted conditions
Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP)
Entry-level support services
If you're 65+ (or 50+ Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander) and not yet approved for a Home Care Package, CHSP provides entry-level support. While technology isn't typically a primary focus, some CHSP providers may assist with safety equipment.
What to Know:
- Services provided by local organizations
- May offer one-off equipment assistance
- Good interim option while waiting for Home Care Package
State Government Programs
Regional assistance schemes
Several state governments offer additional funding schemes for assistive technology, seniors' safety equipment, or home modifications. Eligibility and availability vary by location.
NSW
NSW Seniors Card benefits and local council programs may assist with safety equipment.
Victoria
Victorian Seniors Card and regional health services may offer equipment support.
Queensland
Seniors Card and local community support programs available in some areas.
Other States
Contact your state's Department of Health or Community Services for local programs.
Private Health Insurance
Extras cover options
Some private health insurance policies with Extras cover may provide rebates on health-related equipment and technology. While not common, it's worth checking your policy.
Worth Checking:
- Ambulance cover may relate to emergency response systems
- Some policies cover "health management" equipment
- We can provide TGA registration documentation for claims
Need Help Navigating Your Options?
The Australian funding landscape can be complex, with overlapping programs and varying eligibility criteria. Our team has experience working with all these funding sources and can help you determine which options you might qualify for. We provide the necessary documentation and can liaise with funding bodies on your behalf.
Ready to Explore Your Funding Options?
Take our free assessment to receive a personalized funding recommendation based on your specific situation. Get a detailed quote and documentation ready for your funding application.
Ready to Get Started?
Our funding specialists are here to help you navigate the process and maximize your chances of approval.