Introduction
Smart home technology is changing the way people live at home. For people living with disability, the right technology may help improve safety, accessibility, comfort and independence by making everyday tasks easier to manage.
An NDIS smart home may include connected devices such as smart lighting, smart switches, smart locks, video doorbells, intercoms, security cameras, smart air conditioning controllers, automated doors, voice assistants and home automation systems. When designed properly, these technologies can help people control parts of their home using a smartphone, voice command, remote control or automated schedule.
At Smarter Homes Australia, we provide professional NDIS smart home solutions across Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Redlands, Moreton Bay, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. Our team works with participants, families, carers, support coordinators, occupational therapists and builders to design practical technology solutions around individual needs.
This guide explains what NDIS smart home technology is, how it may support assisted living, what products can be installed and what to consider before starting.
Important note: This guide is general information only. It is not NDIS funding advice, legal advice, clinical advice or a guarantee of funding. NDIS funding decisions depend on each participant’s individual circumstances, plan, goals and supporting evidence. Participants should speak with their occupational therapist, support coordinator, plan manager or NDIS contact before making decisions.
What Is an NDIS Smart Home?
An NDIS smart home is a home that uses connected technology to support accessibility, safety, independence and daily living for a person with disability.
The NDIS describes assistive technology as equipment or devices that help a person do things they cannot do, or cannot do as easily or safely, because of their disability. Assistive technology may be low-cost, higher-cost, store-bought, modified or custom-made depending on the person’s needs. The NDIS states that funded assistive technology must be directly related to the participant’s disability and must help them do something more easily, safely or independently. Read the official NDIS guide to assistive technology.
In a smart home setting, this may include technology that helps a participant:
- Turn lights on and off without reaching a wall switch
- Unlock a door without using a physical key
- See who is at the door before opening it
- Control air conditioning from a phone, tablet or voice assistant
- Automate routines such as morning, bedtime or leaving the house
- Improve visibility and safety around entrances
- Communicate with visitors through an intercom
- Monitor areas of the home for safety and peace of mind
The goal is not to add technology for the sake of it. The goal is to design a practical environment that supports the person’s daily life.
NDIS Smart Homes vs General Home Automation
A general smart home is usually focused on convenience, comfort and lifestyle. For example, a homeowner may want voice-controlled lighting, app-controlled air conditioning or automated entertainment.
An NDIS smart home should be more purpose-driven. The technology should be selected because it supports a specific disability-related need or functional goal.
For example:
- A smart light switch may support someone who cannot safely reach a wall switch.
- A smart lock may support someone who has difficulty using keys.
- A video intercom may support someone who needs to verify visitors before opening the door.
- A smart air conditioning controller may support someone who has difficulty manually operating a remote control.
- A voice assistant may support someone who needs hands-free control of multiple devices.
This is why professional design and installation matters. The right system should be easy to use, reliable and matched to the participant’s individual needs.
Can NDIS Funding Cover Smart Home Technology?
In some circumstances, smart home technology may be considered under NDIS assistive technology or home modification pathways. However, funding is not automatic.
The NDIS explains that supports must meet the relevant rules and be connected to the participant’s disability-related needs. NDIS support lists also help participants understand what can and cannot be paid for with NDIS funding. Some supports may require approval as replacement supports if they are not already covered. Read the official NDIS explanation of NDIS supports.
The NDIS also provides specific guidance around home modifications. Home modifications are custom-built changes to a home that help a person access and use areas of the home. The NDIS states that it can only fund modifications to a home that the participant owns, or where the owner agrees to the modification. Read the official NDIS home modifications guide.
For smart home technology, this means the key questions are usually:
- Is the technology directly related to the participant’s disability?
- Does it support safety, access, independence or daily living?
- Is it reasonable and necessary for the participant’s goals?
- Is it the most appropriate and cost-effective option?
- Is there supporting evidence from an occupational therapist or other professional?
- Does the participant’s plan allow the relevant type of support?
- Is the provider pricing fair and transparent?
Because funding rules can change, participants should always confirm eligibility with their NDIS contact, support coordinator, occupational therapist or plan manager before proceeding.
Avoiding Misleading NDIS Claims
Be cautious of any business claiming that a product is “NDIS approved” or “100% NDIS funded.”
The NDIA has stated that it does not endorse or approve specific products or services. It has also warned that businesses promoting products as “NDIS approved”, “NDIS permitted” or “100% NDIS funded” may be breaching Australian Consumer Law. Read the NDIA warning about misleading NDIS-approved claims.
The ACCC has also taken action against businesses for allegedly misleading consumers about NDIS endorsement. In 2025, Thermomix paid penalties after the ACCC alleged it made representations suggesting household appliances were endorsed by the NDIS. Read the ACCC release.
At Smarter Homes Australia, we do not claim that products are automatically NDIS approved. Instead, we provide professional installation and supporting information so participants and their support networks can make informed decisions.
Who Can Benefit from NDIS Smart Home Technology?
Smart home technology may be useful for people with a wide range of accessibility, mobility, cognitive, sensory or safety needs. The suitability of each technology depends on the person’s individual circumstances.
NDIS smart home technology may support:
- People with limited mobility
- Wheelchair users
- People with reduced hand strength or dexterity
- People who have difficulty reaching switches or door handles
- People with vision impairment
- People with neurological conditions
- People with spinal cord injuries
- People with acquired brain injury
- People who benefit from routine and environmental control
- People who need support from carers, family or support workers
- People who want to improve independence at home
Technology should never be assumed to be suitable for everyone. An occupational therapist or assistive technology advisor can help identify whether a smart home solution is appropriate.
Smart Lighting for NDIS Participants
Smart lighting can allow a participant to control lights using a smartphone, voice assistant, remote control, automation or motion sensor.
This may help reduce the need to walk to switches, reach awkward locations or move around in the dark.
Smart lighting may support:
- Safer movement at night
- Easier control for people with limited mobility
- Automated routines for morning and evening
- Motion-triggered lighting in hallways or bathrooms
- Voice control through Google Home, Amazon Alexa or Apple Home
- Remote control by trusted family members or support workers where appropriate
Examples include:
- Bedroom lights turning on gradually in the morning
- Hallway lights activating when motion is detected
- Bathroom lights turning on at night
- Outdoor lights turning on when someone approaches
- A “bedtime” routine that turns off selected lights automatically
Smart lighting can be installed across the entire home, in selected rooms or in specific areas where accessibility is most important.
Smart Switches
Smart switches replace traditional wall switches with connected switches that can be controlled manually, through an app, by voice or through automation.
Smart switches are useful because they maintain normal wall switch functionality while adding smart control. This means family members, carers or visitors can still use the switch like a normal light switch.
Smart switches may assist participants who:
- Have difficulty reaching switches
- Want voice control without replacing every bulb
- Need scheduled lighting routines
- Need support workers to easily operate lighting
- Want lighting integrated into broader home automation
Smart switches can also be helpful in shared households because they keep the system familiar for everyone.
Smart Locks and Keyless Entry
Smart locks allow doors to be locked and unlocked using a keypad, fingerprint, smartphone, access code or app-based control.
For some participants, traditional keys can be difficult to use, easy to lose or physically challenging to manage. Smart locks may help provide safer and more convenient access.
Smart locks may support:
- Keyless access
- Temporary codes for support workers
- Remote unlocking for trusted people
- Reduced reliance on spare keys
- Entry history depending on the product
- Auto-lock functions on compatible models
- Improved access for participants with dexterity challenges
Smart locks need to be selected carefully based on the door type, existing lock, security needs and user requirements.
Video Doorbells
A video doorbell combines a doorbell, camera and two-way audio system. It allows the user to see and speak with visitors through a smartphone or compatible device.
For NDIS participants, video doorbells may assist with visitor verification and reduce the need to physically approach the door before knowing who is there.
A video doorbell may support:
- Seeing visitors before opening the door
- Speaking with delivery drivers
- Receiving notifications when someone approaches
- Monitoring packages
- Supporting people with mobility limitations
- Allowing trusted family members to assist remotely where appropriate
This can be especially useful when paired with smart locks, intercoms or security cameras.
Security Cameras and CCTV
Security cameras and CCTV systems can improve visibility around a property and allow users to monitor key areas from a phone, tablet or screen.
For NDIS participants, security cameras may support safety and awareness, particularly around entrances, driveways, side access points or outdoor areas.
CCTV may be useful for:
- Monitoring the front entrance
- Viewing driveways or gates
- Checking outdoor areas before going outside
- Supporting safety for vulnerable residents
- Providing visibility to trusted family members or support networks where appropriate
- Recording activity around the property
Privacy should always be considered. Cameras should be positioned carefully and must not be used in a way that breaches the privacy of residents, visitors, support workers or neighbours.
For homes where cabling is difficult, wireless security cameras may be a suitable alternative. For more information check out our ultimate guide on home security.
Smart Intercom Systems
Smart intercom systems allow residents to communicate with visitors before granting access. Many systems include video, audio and remote unlocking features.
For NDIS participants, an intercom may support safer access control, particularly where the home has a front gate, apartment entrance or restricted access point.
Smart intercoms may support:
- Visitor screening
- Two-way communication
- Remote gate or door access
- Greater control over entry points
- Integration with smart locks or gates
- Support for carers or family members where appropriate
Intercoms can be especially useful in homes where the participant cannot easily reach the front door or gate.
Smart Garage and Gate Control
Smart garage and gate systems allow users to monitor, open and close garage doors or gates using a smartphone or smart home system.
This may help participants who have difficulty operating traditional remotes, reaching controls or manually opening access points.
Smart garage and gate control may support:
- Remote opening and closing
- Checking whether the garage or gate is open
- Notifications when access points are used
- Easier access for family, carers or support workers
- Integration with security cameras or intercoms
This type of solution should be installed safely and professionally because garage doors and gates are moving access systems.
Smart Air Conditioning and Climate Control
Smart air conditioning and smart air conditioning controllers allow users to manage temperature, schedules and operating modes through an app, automation or voice assistant.
For some participants, controlling temperature can be difficult if the remote is hard to use, misplaced or physically inaccessible. A smart controller may make the existing air conditioner easier to operate without replacing the whole unit.
Smart climate control may support:
- Remote temperature control
- Voice control
- Automated schedules
- Room-by-room comfort where compatible
- Reduced need to handle small remotes
- Better comfort during hot Queensland summers
- Energy management through timers and routines
Smart air conditioning can be especially useful when integrated with broader home automation routines.
Smart Home Assistants and Voice Control
Smart home assistants such as Google Home, Amazon Alexa and Apple Home can act as a central control point for compatible devices.
Voice control can be valuable for participants who have difficulty using switches, remotes, keys or touchscreens.
A smart home assistant may allow users to say commands such as:
- “Turn on the bedroom light”
- “Lock the front door”
- “Turn off the living room lights”
- “Set the air conditioner to 24 degrees”
- “Show the front door camera”
- “Open the garage”
- “Start bedtime mode”
Voice control should be designed carefully. It may not be suitable for all participants, particularly where speech, cognition, privacy or reliability are concerns. In some cases, a combination of app control, physical buttons, automations and voice control may work better.
Home Automation for Assisted Living
Home automation connects multiple smart devices so they work together.
Instead of controlling each device separately, automation allows the home to respond to routines, schedules, sensors or commands.
Examples include:
- A morning routine that opens blinds, turns on lights and adjusts temperature
- A bedtime routine that locks doors, turns off lights and arms selected security devices
- Motion sensors turning on hallway lights at night
- Outdoor lights turning on when a camera detects movement
- A support worker code unlocking the front door only during scheduled hours
- A voice command controlling several devices at once
The best automation is simple and practical. It should reduce daily effort, not create confusion.
Working With Occupational Therapists
Occupational therapists often play an important role in identifying functional needs, assessing the home environment and recommending assistive technology.
The NDIS indicates that participants should explore assistive technology options with appropriate professionals, including occupational therapists, particularly where supports are more complex or higher cost. The NDIS also considers what parts of the home are reasonable to fund for automation, based on how the participant uses the home.
An occupational therapist may help assess:
- The participant’s functional goals
- Current barriers in the home
- Whether technology is suitable
- Which areas of the home need support
- Whether lower-cost alternatives should be considered
- Whether the proposed solution is reasonable and necessary
- What evidence may be required
Smarter Homes Australia can work alongside occupational therapists to provide practical product advice, installation recommendations and technical input.
Working With Support Coordinators and Plan Managers
Support coordinators can help participants understand their plan, connect with providers and coordinate services.
Plan managers can help participants understand invoices, budgets and claiming processes.
When planning smart home technology, it is often helpful to involve:
- The participant
- Family or informal supports
- Support coordinator
- Occupational therapist
- Plan manager
- Builder or electrician, if required
- Smart home installer
This helps ensure everyone understands the proposed solution, its purpose, the expected outcome and any funding considerations.
Working With Builders and Renovators
Smart home technology is often easier to install during a renovation or new build. Planning early can reduce future costs and improve the final result.
Builders and renovators should consider:
- Power points
- Data cabling
- WiFi coverage
- Switch locations
- Door hardware
- Camera locations
- Intercom wiring
- Garage and gate access
- Smart lighting zones
- Air conditioning control
- Future accessibility needs
For new builds or renovations, Smarter Homes Australia can help plan smart home infrastructure before walls are closed and finishes are completed.
NDIS Smart Home Installation Process
A professional installation process should be simple, transparent and tailored to the participant’s needs.
1. Initial Consultation
We discuss the participant’s goals, property layout, current challenges and preferred technology.
2. Home or Remote Assessment
Depending on the situation, we review the property in person or through photos, videos and floor plans.
3. Product Recommendations
We recommend suitable devices based on the participant’s needs, home environment, budget and compatibility requirements.
4. Support Network Coordination
Where appropriate, we can work with family members, support coordinators, occupational therapists, builders or plan managers.
5. Professional Installation
Our team installs the selected technology safely, neatly and professionally.
6. App Setup and Configuration
We configure devices, connect compatible systems and set up apps or voice assistants.
7. Training
We show the participant and relevant support people how to use the system.
8. Ongoing Support
We provide support so the system remains practical, reliable and easy to use.
Choosing the Right Smart Home Platform
There are several smart home platforms available, including Google Home, Amazon Alexa and Apple Home.
The best choice depends on:
- Existing devices
- Smartphone type
- Voice assistant preference
- Accessibility needs
- Compatibility with cameras, locks and lighting
- Whether family members need shared access
- Privacy preferences
- Budget
- Reliability
For some homes, Google Home may be the most practical. For others, Apple Home or Alexa may be better. In more complex installations, the best approach may involve a dedicated smart home hub or a combination of systems.
Privacy and Safety Considerations
Smart home technology should always be installed with privacy, safety and consent in mind.
Important considerations include:
- Who can access the app?
- Who receives notifications?
- Where are cameras positioned?
- Are support workers or visitors being recorded?
- Is footage stored locally or in the cloud?
- Are passwords secure?
- Are access codes reviewed regularly?
- Can the participant easily override automations?
- What happens if the internet goes down?
- What happens during a power outage?
Good design should avoid overcomplicating the home. Technology should support independence without creating unnecessary monitoring, confusion or risk.
Cybersecurity Considerations
Connected devices should be installed securely.
Good practices include:
- Using strong passwords
- Enabling two-factor authentication where available
- Keeping apps and firmware updated
- Avoiding shared passwords
- Removing access for people who no longer need it
- Using reliable WiFi and network equipment
- Choosing reputable products
- Avoiding unknown low-quality devices
A smart home is only useful if it remains secure and reliable.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing Products Before Understanding the Need
The starting point should be the participant’s goals and daily challenges, not a product catalogue.
Making the System Too Complicated
Too many apps, automations or devices can make a home harder to use.
Ignoring WiFi Coverage
Many smart devices need reliable internet or local network coverage. Poor WiFi can make the system frustrating.
Forgetting Training
Participants and support people need to understand how the system works.
Not Considering Maintenance
Batteries, updates, passwords and access codes need to be managed over time.
Assuming Funding Is Automatic
Smart home technology may be relevant to a participant’s needs, but funding depends on individual circumstances and NDIS requirements.
Using “NDIS Approved” Language
The NDIA does not approve or endorse specific products or services. Businesses and participants should avoid misleading claims.
NDIS Smart Home Checklist
Before choosing a smart home solution, consider:
- What daily task is difficult or unsafe?
- What outcome is the participant trying to achieve?
- Is the technology directly related to disability needs?
- Has an occupational therapist provided input?
- Is the solution simple enough to use every day?
- Does the participant prefer app, voice, switch or automation control?
- Will support workers need access?
- Are privacy settings clear?
- Is the WiFi strong enough?
- Can the system be expanded later?
- Who will maintain the system?
- Has funding eligibility been confirmed?
Example Smart Home Setups
Basic Accessibility Setup
Suitable for a participant who needs simple control over lights and climate.
May include:
- Smart lighting
- Smart switches
- Smart air conditioning controller
- Voice assistant
- App setup and training
Entry and Access Setup
Suitable for a participant who needs improved control over entry points.
May include:
- Smart lock
- Video doorbell
- Smart intercom
- Security camera at entry
- Temporary access codes
- Remote access setup
Whole Home Automation Setup
Suitable for a participant who needs a more integrated solution.
May include:
- Smart lighting
- Smart switches
- Smart locks
- Smart air conditioning
- Security cameras
- Intercom
- Garage or gate control
- Voice assistant
- Custom routines
Safety and Monitoring Setup
Suitable for a participant who needs greater visibility and awareness around the home.
May include:
- CCTV cameras
- Wireless cameras
- Video doorbell
- Outdoor smart lighting
- Floodlight security cameras
- App notifications
Why Professional Installation Matters
Many smart home products can be purchased online, but disability-related installations need careful planning.
Professional installation helps ensure:
- Devices are installed safely
- Products are compatible
- Controls are easy to use
- Apps are set up correctly
- Family or support workers understand access
- Automations are practical
- Devices are positioned properly
- The system can be expanded later
- The participant receives training
Smarter Homes Australia does more than install devices. We design practical smart home systems that suit the person, the property and the intended outcome.
Why Choose Smarter Homes Australia?
Smarter Homes Australia provides professional smart home and security installation services across South East Queensland.
We install and configure:
- NDIS smart home solutions
- Smart lighting
- Smart switches
- Smart locks
- Video doorbells
- Security cameras and CCTV
- Wireless security cameras
- Smart intercom systems
- Smart garage and gate control
- Smart air conditioning
- Smart air conditioning controllers
- Smart home assistants
We service Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Redlands, Moreton Bay, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.
To discuss a suitable solution, contact Smarter Homes Australia for a free quote or consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an NDIS smart home?
An NDIS smart home uses connected technology to support safety, accessibility and independence for a person living with disability. It may include smart lighting, smart locks, intercoms, security cameras, voice assistants, smart air conditioning and home automation.
Can NDIS funding cover smart home technology?
In some cases, smart home technology may be considered where it is directly related to a participant’s disability needs and meets NDIS requirements. Funding depends on the participant’s plan, goals, evidence and individual circumstances.
Are smart home products NDIS approved?
The NDIA does not approve or endorse specific products or services. Be cautious of any business claiming that a product is “NDIS approved” or guaranteed to be funded.
Do I need an occupational therapist assessment?
An occupational therapist assessment may be helpful or required, especially for more complex or higher-cost assistive technology. An OT can help identify functional needs and recommend suitable supports.
What smart home products can support independent living?
Common options include smart lighting, smart switches, smart locks, video doorbells, intercoms, security cameras, smart air conditioning controllers, garage control and voice assistants.
Can smart lighting help with accessibility?
Smart lighting may help participants control lights without reaching switches. It can also support routines, motion activation and safer movement around the home.
Can smart locks help NDIS participants?
Smart locks may help participants who have difficulty using keys or need controlled access for family, carers or support workers. Suitability depends on the person’s needs and the home setup.
Can I control everything by voice?
Many devices can be controlled by voice through Google Home, Amazon Alexa or Apple Home, but not every product is compatible. Some participants may benefit from voice control, while others may prefer app control, switches or automations.
Can smart home technology be installed in an existing home?
Yes. Many smart home technologies can be installed in existing homes. Some systems require wiring, while others can be added with minimal disruption.
Can smart home technology be included in a new build?
Yes. New builds and renovations are ideal times to plan smart home technology because wiring, switches, access points and network coverage can be designed early.
Do you work with support coordinators?
Yes. Smarter Homes Australia can work with participants, families, support coordinators, occupational therapists, builders and plan managers where appropriate.
Do you provide training after installation?
Yes. We set up the system and show the participant and relevant support people how to use the technology.
Do you service Brisbane only?
No. Smarter Homes Australia provides NDIS smart home installation services across Brisbane, Logan, Ipswich, Redlands, Moreton Bay, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.
What happens if the internet goes down?
This depends on the products installed. Some devices may continue to work manually or locally, while others may lose remote access until the internet returns. We explain this during the recommendation process.
Are smart home systems difficult to use?
A well-designed system should be simple to use. The best setup depends on the participant’s needs and may include voice control, app control, manual switches, remotes or automated routines.
Can family members or carers access the system?
In many cases, trusted family members or carers can be given access. Access should be managed carefully, with privacy, consent and security in mind.
Is smart home technology suitable for every participant?
No. Smart home technology may be helpful for some participants but not suitable for everyone. The person’s goals, abilities, home environment and support needs should guide the decision.
How do I get started?
Start by identifying the daily tasks that are difficult, unsafe or inaccessible. Then speak with your support coordinator, occupational therapist or NDIS contact. You can also contact Smarter Homes Australia to discuss suitable installation options.
Final Thoughts
NDIS smart home technology has the potential to make everyday life safer, easier and more accessible when it is designed around the individual.
The most effective systems are practical, reliable and easy to use. They do not need to be complicated. A simple setup with smart lighting, a smart lock, a video doorbell and a voice assistant may be enough for one participant. Another participant may need a more complete home automation system with intercoms, cameras, climate control and access automation.
The key is to start with the person’s needs, not the technology.
If you are considering NDIS smart home technology for yourself, a family member or a client, Smarter Homes Australia can help you understand the options and design a solution that suits the home, the participant and the support network.
Contact Smarter Homes Australia to discuss NDIS smart home installation across South East Queensland.
