Independence First Occupational Therapy
About Independence First Occupational Therapy
Independence First Occupational Therapy is an NDIS-registered provider based in Hillvue, New South Wales, serving participants across Hunter New England. They offer 4 types of support including assistive technology, home modifications, occupational therapy and more. At Independence First Occupational Therapy, we are committed to providing high-quality occupational therapy services to adolescents and adults. Our mobile service means that we come to you, making our services accessible and convenient. Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step towards improving your quality of life.
Services Independence First Occupational Therapy provides
- Assistive technology
- Home modifications
- Occupational therapy
- SDA
NDIS Commission register record
Published by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, as at 2 August 2026.
Approved to deliver
- Therapeutic supports
Approval covers the support types listed above. It is not a statement that Independence First Occupational Therapy currently offers all of them, or has availability. How we check listings.
Source: NDIS Commission provider register, snapshot 2 August 2026.
Before you sign anything, read choosing your first NDIS provider — rates and loadings, cancellation terms, staff continuity and how to end a service agreement.
Understanding assistive technology under the NDIS
NDIS assistive technology (AT) sits in three cost categories that determine the evidence and process required. Low-cost AT (under $1,500) can be purchased directly from your Core or Capacity Building budget without quote or assessment — items like reachers, jar openers, basic shower stools. Mid-cost AT ($1,500-$15,000) requires a quote and a functional assessment from an OT or physio — manual wheelchairs, alternating air mattresses, assistive software. High-cost AT (over $15,000) requires multiple quotes, allied-health prescription with detailed rationale, and NDIA approval — power wheelchairs, complex seating, ceiling hoists, speech-generating devices, hearing aids beyond standard cochlear implants.
Trial periods are standard practice for mid- and high-cost AT and should be insisted upon. A 2-4 week trial of a power wheelchair in your actual environment reveals issues (kerb negotiation, doorway clearance, charging logistics, transport considerations) that no clinic-based fitting can predict. Reputable AT suppliers build trial periods into their quote process and won't pressure you to accept equipment without one.
Repair and maintenance funding is often forgotten in initial AT planning. The NDIS funds repairs and reasonable maintenance for participant-owned AT, but the funding has to be in your plan — typically as a separate line item under Capital Supports. For complex equipment (power chairs, hoists, communication devices), an annual maintenance budget of approximately 10% of the equipment's purchase value is a reasonable rule of thumb.
When evaluating AT providers, prioritise local service capacity. A power wheelchair from an interstate online vendor at a slightly lower price becomes an expensive false economy when you need a same-week repair and the supplier ships parts from Brisbane.
NDIS supports in Hunter New England
The Hunter New England service district covers 157+ suburbs and hosts 599+ registered NDIS providers. Participants in this area typically access services in their local community, though many providers including Independence First Occupational Therapy travel to clients at home. Travel charges under the NDIS are capped and must be agreed in your service agreement before work begins.
Most participants in Hunter New England access a mix of services — commonly support worker, sda and occupational therapy. Whether you’re looking for ongoing support or need a specific assessment, comparing providers in your area is the best way to find the right fit for your goals and circumstances.
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