Short Description

The Aids and Equipment Program is a NSW Government initiative to assist eligible residents of NSW, who have a life long or long term disability, to live and participate within their community by providing appropriate equipment, aids and appliances. The program is now run from a single statewide centre. (Nov 2010 some local PADP lodgement centres are in the process of moving to the central service.)

More Details

PADP provides the most cost effective clinically appropriate item of equipment including wheelchairs, shower chairs, continence aids, walking frames and communication devices. It also maintains and repairs PADP equipment.

Information on eligibility for the program, the range of equipment available, the lodgement of applications, mutual responsibilities and expectations, and steps for complaints and appeals is outlined in the Program of Appliances for Disabled People - NSW Health Policy on the Enable website.

Eligibility
* The disability must be of a permanent or long term nature
* The applicant must not be eligible to receive compensation for their disability or to receive equipment from another program

How do I apply?
Assessments and prescriptions will be carried out by local health care workers. They will advise you of the application process. You need to submit an application form to your local PADP office with a completed equipment prescription by a health care worker such as an occupational therapist or a nurse.

Is there a cost?
* There is a means test for people over 16 years of age. All children under 16 are eligible regardless of their parent's income
* The first $100 of the cost of the first item(s) supplied by PADP in any year will be payable by recipient.

People with a disability interested in seeking further information about the program should discuss their query with a health care provider, or contact their nearest Lodgement Centre (on the Enable website or phone Enable)