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Independence First Occupational Therapy

Name: Independence First Occupational Therapy
Address: Hillvue NSW 2340, Australia, AU
Telephone: 0417 604 739

Hillvue NSW 2340, Australia

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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

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.

What to ask before choosing an NDIS provider

Before signing a service agreement with any NDIS provider, including Independence First Occupational Therapy, it’s worth having a conversation about a few key things. What are the hourly rates, including loadings for evenings, weekends and public holidays? What cancellation fees apply, and what notice period do they require? Who will your regular support worker or practitioner be, and what happens if they’re sick or on leave? How does the provider handle complaints? These questions are standard — any reputable provider will have clear answers.

If Independence First Occupational Therapy is registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, they’re bound by the NDIS Code of Conduct and must meet service standards audited by approved quality auditors. This covers everything from worker screening to incident reporting. Unregistered providers can still be used by plan-managed and self-managed participants but aren’t subject to the same oversight.

It’s also worth understanding your service agreement before you sign it. The agreement should clearly state the supports being delivered, the price per hour or unit, any cancellation policy, how travel charges are handled, and how either party can end the agreement. Under the NDIS, you can usually change providers, subject to the notice and cancellation terms in your service agreement. If a provider’s service agreement doesn’t include a reasonable exit clause, that’s worth questioning.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of choosing a provider, your support coordinator or local area coordinator (LAC) can help. They can explain what to look for, accompany you to initial meetings, and assist with setting up service agreements that protect your interests. Keeping records of your interactions with providers — save invoices, note key conversations, and track whether the services delivered match what was agreed — will make plan reviews smoother and provide evidence if you ever need to raise a complaint.

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.