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

The Commission holds this registration under Miss Leah Jane Duncan. Search the register by ABN rather than business name — trading names and registered entity names often differ.

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

Assistive technology (AT) under the NDIS covers equipment, devices, and technology that help participants carry out daily activities, communicate, move around, and live more independently. The scope is broad — from simple aids like modified cutlery and shower chairs to complex powered wheelchairs, vehicle modifications, and communication devices.

The NDIS categorises assistive technology by cost and complexity. Low-cost AT (under $1,500) can often be purchased without prior approval, though it’s good practice to discuss it with your support coordinator. Mid-cost AT ($1,500 to $15,000) requires a quote and a recommendation from a relevant allied health professional, usually an occupational therapist. High-cost and complex AT (over $15,000) requires a detailed assessment report, multiple quotes, and NDIA approval before purchase.

The assessment process for mid-cost and above AT involves your therapist evaluating your functional needs, trialling suitable options, and preparing a written recommendation with justification for the specific product. Trial periods are particularly important for complex items like wheelchairs and communication devices — using a device for several weeks in your actual environment is the best way to confirm it meets your needs before the NDIS commits to funding it.

Repairs and maintenance for funded AT are also covered under the NDIS, either through your plan or via a reasonable and necessary request. If your equipment breaks down and you need an urgent repair, don’t wait for plan review — contact your support coordinator or the NDIA directly, as interim solutions can often be arranged quickly.

When working with AT suppliers, ask about warranty periods, expected lifespan of the equipment, availability of spare parts, and turnaround time for repairs. A good supplier will also provide training on how to use and maintain the equipment. For consumable items like continence aids or low-cost replacement parts, keep records of your usage to support future funding requests.

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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