Claiming a robotic pet from Consumables
The steps NDIS participants and plan managers follow in 2026 to buy a robotic companion pet as low-cost AT and claim it from the Consumables budget.
When a robotic companion pet is bought as low-cost assistive technology, it is usually paid from the Consumables budget. The exact steps depend on how the plan is managed. This page covers the common path. It does not replace advice from your plan manager, your support coordinator or the NDIS, and it does not mean a claim will be accepted.
Is there money left in Consumables?
Check the plan first. Look at the Consumables amount still available in the my NDIS portal or app, or ask your plan manager for a current balance. Other items such as continence products often come from the same budget, so the balance may be lower than expected.
What do I need before buying?
- A plan goal the pet supports, written in plain words.
- A short recommendation from a therapist, such as an OT or psychologist, where one is available.
- A product listing or quote showing the item, the price and the supplier’s details.
- Confirmation that the item costs less than $1,500.
How is the supplier paid?
| Plan management | Usual process | Keep on file |
|---|---|---|
| Self-managed | The participant or nominee pays the supplier and claims through the portal | Tax invoice, receipt, therapist note |
| Plan-managed | The supplier sends the invoice to the plan manager, who pays it | Copy of the invoice, therapist note |
| NDIA-managed | Ask the NDIA or your support coordinator which suppliers you can use before you buy | Written confirmation |
Confirm the process with your plan manager or the NDIS. Plans differ, and the table above is a general guide only.
Which support item number is used?
Retailers that sell to NDIS participants often print a support item number on the product page. For example, LowCost AT lists the Ortomi Umi companion robot under Core Consumables, Low Cost AT, with the code 03_222100911_0124_1_1. That is the retailer’s own statement and not an NDIA ruling. Ask your plan manager to confirm the item number before an invoice is paid.
Paperwork that avoids problems later
- Ask for a tax invoice that names the participant, the product and the supplier’s ABN.
- Keep the therapist’s recommendation with the invoice.
- Write down the date the pet was introduced and how the person responded over the first few weeks.
- Keep the goal wording you used, so the purchase can be explained at the next plan review.
Next step
Work through the goal link and recommendation checklist, browse our services, or request a supplier quote with the plan management type noted.