Short answer?
Yes... and no.
(Welcome to the magic of NDIS.)

Let’s break it down properly — because we know this gets confusing, and you deserve straight-up answers.

What is Assistive Technology?

In NDIS terms, Assistive Technology (AT) is anything that helps you do things that might otherwise be difficult due to your disability. Think: shower chairs, modified cutlery, screen readers.

The NDIS often funds low-cost AT (under $1,500 per item), as long as it meets the following criteria:

• It’s directly related to your disability
• It’s clearly linked to goals in your NDIS plan (such as independence, personal care, or social participation)
• It’s not something generally used by the wider population, like standard cosmetics or luxury items

More info from the NDIS: Assistive Technology Explained

 

---

So... what about makeup and beauty tools?

Here’s where it gets a little more complex.

What can be funded:

If you need adaptive tools to do your makeup due to limited grip, tremors, arthritis, stroke recovery, or any other condition affecting hand movement, you may be able to claim:

• Grip aids (like Betty)
• Adaptive applicators (like the Guide Beauty Wand)
• Ergonomic makeup brushes (like the Kohl Kreatives Flex Collection)

These are considered assistive technology, not just “beauty products,” because they support self-care & independence.

What won’t be funded:

Everyday beauty items — such as mascara, foundation, or lip gloss — won’t be covered, even if they’re easier to use or have accessible packaging.

The NDIS classifies these as general personal purchases, unless the product itself directly addresses a functional limitation caused by your disability.

 

---

Real example

Let’s say you live with rheumatoid arthritis, and holding a mascara wand is difficult or painful.

You use Betty, our silicone grip tool, to apply mascara without strain.

• The grip tool? That may be claimable as low-cost assistive technology.
• The mascara? Probably not.

“The NDIS funds supports that help people do things that they can't do because of their disability — not everyday items used by the general population.”

NDIS Guidelines – What Assistive Technology Do We Fund

---

How to actually claim it

If you're thinking, “This sounds promising but I don’t know where to start”, here’s your checklist:

1. Talk to your Support Coordinator or OT
   Ask if the item could be justified as low-cost AT.
2. Link it to your NDIS goals
   For example: “I want to be more independent with my personal care routine.”
3. Get a letter or justification
   A brief note from a health professional explaining why the tool helps you do something you otherwise can’t do safely or independently.
4. Keep your receipts & documentation
   Especially if you’re self-managed or plan-managed — you’ll need this in case of audit.

 

---

Tools we’ve seen work

 

 

Always check with your NDIS team first — eligibility can vary based on your goals, plan, & specific needs.

 

 

---

Bottom line

You’re not being “extra” for wanting support with beauty.

Looking good is part of feeling good — and personal care goes beyond hygiene. It’s about confidence, autonomy & showing up as your true self.

So yes, the NDIS can support that — if you know what to ask for.

 

---

Sources

• NDIS: Assistive Technology Explained
• NDIS: What Assistive Technology Do We Fund
• NDIS: Low-Cost Assistive Technology