Accessing Equipment and Support for People with Huntington’s Disease

Alternative Options Outside the National Disability Insurance Scheme

If you or someone you care for is living with Huntington’s disease, having access to the right equipment and support can make a huge difference in maintaining independence and improving daily life. In Victoria, there are three programs that offer subsidised aids, equipment, and modifications to assist with this: the Victorian Aids and Equipment Program (VA&EP) and the State-wide Equipment Program (SWEP). Here’s a simple guide to help you access these resources.

Victorian Aids and Equipment Program (VA&EP)

The VA&EP offers subsidised aids, equipment, and home and vehicle modifications to help individuals live independently and safely. It also provides re-issued equipment at no cost for eligible people.

You may qualify for support if you meet the following criteria:

Residency: You must live in Victoria or have permanent residency, a Permanent Protection or Humanitarian Visa, or be an asylum seeker.
Long-Term Need: You require assistive technology for a long-term or permanent health condition or age-related need.
Disability: You are a person with a disability who isn’t eligible for NDIS support due to age, residency status, or functional impairment.

You will not be eligible if:

You live in an Australian Government-funded residential aged care facility.
You already receive aids and equipment through other government programs (such as NDIS, WorkCover, or the Department of Veterans Affairs).
You can claim equipment costs through private health insurance.
You are currently an inpatient in a hospital or have been discharged within the past 30 days.

How to Apply for VA&EP Support

Contact VA&EP: Reach out to the relevant organization for assistance with your application.
Visit the Website: Get more details and start your application by visiting the VA&EP website.

State-wide Equipment Program (SWEP)

SWEP provides subsidised equipment and assistive technology to help individuals live independently both at home and in the community.

SWEP offers a range of equipment including:

Assistive technology
Home and vehicle modifications
Oxygen equipment
Continence and lymphoedema compression garments
Laryngectomy products

Note: SWEP does not cover equipment outside of these categories.

How to Get Started with SWEP:

Explore Available Items: To see a full list of equipment and subsidies, visit the SWEP Available Items and Subsidy Information page.
Getting Help: If you need assistance or have questions, the SWEP team is here to help. You can call or visit their website to start your application.

Contact SWEP:
Call 1300 747 937 to speak with a representative who can guide you through the process.

Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS)

CAPS is a government scheme designed to help people with severe and permanent incontinence access financial support for continence aids.

You can apply for CAPS if you meet these conditions:

Age: You must be 5 years or older.
Condition: You must have permanent and severe incontinence, confirmed by a registered health professional.
Residency: You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or have permanent residency rights.
Eligible Conditions: You must have a neurological condition or another qualifying condition, as listed on the Department of Health and Aged Care website.

You cannot access CAPS if:

Your incontinence is temporary or not severe.
You are eligible for other continence support (e.g., through the NDIS, Department of Veterans Affairs, or Government-funded home care).
You are in a government-funded aged care facility or have been overseas for 3 or more consecutive years.

If your situation changes, contact the Continence Aids Payment Line to check your eligibility.

Both VA&EP and SWEP are dedicated to supporting people with Huntington’s disease and other conditions by providing essential equipment to improve daily living. If you or someone you care for may be eligible for these programs, reach out to the relevant service to learn more and start the process.