Updated for 2026. Everything NDIS participants need to know about funding and purchasing used wheelchair accessible vehicles in Australia.
Overview
For many NDIS participants and their families, a wheelchair accessible vehicle is not a luxury. It is an essential tool for independence, community participation, and daily life. The right vehicle makes the difference between staying connected to work, family, and the community, or facing significant barriers to mobility.
This guide explains how NDIS funding can support the purchase of a used wheelchair accessible vehicle, what support categories apply, what the process involves, and what to look for when choosing a used wheelchair accessible vehicle that meets your needs.
Glam Groups is a registered NDIS provider based in Campbellfield, Melbourne. We specialise in used wheelchair accessible vehicles sourced directly from Japan, with factory fitted ramps, lifts, and accessibility features.
What Is a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV)?
A wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) is a vehicle that has been purpose built or professionally modified to allow a wheelchair user to travel safely as a passenger, or in some cases as the driver. WAVs differ from standard vehicles in a number of important ways:
- They are fitted with a ramp or hoist system to allow wheelchair entry and exit without the occupant needing to transfer to a standard seat.
- The floor height and interior dimensions are designed to accommodate a wheelchair user in their chair during travel.
- Restraint systems are fitted specifically for wheelchair occupants, including tie-down points for the wheelchair frame and a separate occupant restraint.
- In some models, the front passenger seat has been removed or modified to accommodate the wheelchair in the front cabin area.
The used wheelchair accessible vehicles available through Glam Groups are Welcab and equivalent factory conversion models sourced from Japan, where the wheelchair accessibility features were installed by the original manufacturer. These are not aftermarket conversions. The accessibility modifications are built into the vehicle’s original design and manufacturing process.
To learn more about the different types of wheelchair accessible vehicles available, see our guide on types of WAVs and our overview of key features of wheelchair accessible vehicles.
Can NDIS Fund a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle?
NDIS funding can support costs associated with wheelchair accessible vehicles in specific circumstances. However, NDIS does not directly fund the purchase price of a vehicle. The funding that is available relates to the modifications and equipment that make a vehicle accessible, not the vehicle itself.
What NDIS Can Potentially Fund
- Vehicle modifications required to make a vehicle wheelchair accessible, such as ramp or hoist installation, floor lowering, or restraint system fitting.
- Assessment and trial costs for vehicle modifications (typically funded under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living, not Capital Supports).
- Training in the use of vehicle modification equipment (typically funded under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living).
- In some cases, funding for transportation support workers.
What NDIS Generally Does Not Fund
- The purchase price of a vehicle, including a used wheelchair accessible vehicle.
- Standard vehicle running costs including registration, insurance, fuel, and servicing.
- Vehicle depreciation.
For a used wheelchair accessible vehicle that already has factory fitted accessibility features, such as the Welcab models we stock, the NDIS may fund the cost of any additional modifications needed to meet the participant’s specific requirements. In some cases, the NDIA may also consider funding a pre-modified vehicle where it is assessed as more cost-effective than modifying an existing vehicle, however, this is assessed on a case-by-case basis against the reasonable and necessary criteria. The vehicle purchase itself would otherwise need to be funded separately, through personal funds, a specialist disability vehicle loan, or other funding sources.
Which NDIS Support Category Applies?
Vehicle modification costs are generally funded under the Capital Supports budget, specifically under Assistive Technology. The relevant support category for vehicle modifications is:
| Support Category | Notes |
|---|---|
| Assistive Technology (Capital) | Covers vehicle modifications and equipment that assist with mobility and transport. Includes ramps, hoists, restraint systems, and driving control modifications. High-cost modifications (generally above $15,000) typically require NDIA approval and quotes before purchase. |
| Transport (Core Supports) | A transport allowance paid directly to eligible participants who cannot use public transport due to their disability. Covers travel costs for getting to work, appointments, education, and community activities. Three funding levels apply (Level 1: up to $1,784/year, Level 2: up to $2,676/year, Level 3: up to $3,456/year). Does not fund vehicle purchase or running costs. |
| Assistance with Daily Life (Core Supports) | May cover support worker assistance with vehicle use in some plans. Note: OT assessments, vehicle modification trials, and related training are typically funded under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living (Support Category 15), not under Capital Supports. |
Every NDIS plan is individual. What is funded depends on your specific goals, your functional needs, and how your plan manager or NDIA has categorised your supports. Always confirm funding availability with your NDIS planner, support coordinator, or plan manager before committing to a vehicle purchase.
The Process: Purchasing a Used WAV with NDIS Support
The typical process for an NDIS participant purchasing a used wheelchair accessible vehicle with some level of NDIS support involves the following stages:
- Speak with your NDIS support coordinator or plan manager about your transport and mobility goals and confirm what support is available under your current plan.
- Obtain an assessment from an Occupational Therapist (OT) who specialises in vehicle modifications and assistive technology. The OT assessment is typically required before NDIS will fund any vehicle modification.
- Identify a suitable used wheelchair accessible vehicle. Consider the type of wheelchair or mobility aid being used, passenger capacity requirements, and whether driver or rear passenger accessibility is needed. See our guide on how to choose the right disability vehicle to help with this step.
- Obtain quotes for any additional modifications required to meet your specific needs, as identified in the OT assessment. Note that NDIS modification funding requires you to own the vehicle, or have the owner’s written permission to modify it. Vehicle ownership documentation (registration papers) will be required as part of the funding application.
- Submit the modification funding request to your NDIS planner or plan manager for approval.
- Once funding is confirmed, proceed with the vehicle purchase and arrange the approved modifications. See our guide on WAV conversion options to understand what modifications are available.
Glam Groups can provide detailed vehicle specifications, accessibility measurements, and product information to support your OT assessment and NDIS funding application. Contact our team to discuss your specific requirements.
Our Range of Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles
All wheelchair accessible vehicles available through Glam Groups are used, second hand vehicles sourced from Japan. They are not new vehicles. Each vehicle in our range has factory fitted wheelchair accessibility features installed by the original manufacturer as part of the Welcab or equivalent conversion program. View our full range of used wheelchair accessible vehicles for sale.
Toyota Hiace 200 Series (2006 to 2019)
The Toyota Hiace 200 series is one of the most popular used wheelchair accessible vans in Australia. The Welcab variant features a factory engineered electronic hoist and lift system capable of carrying up to 250kg, spacious rear cabin with full wheelchair positioning capability, and seating for up to eight additional passengers alongside the wheelchair occupant. Starting from $75,500. View Toyota Hiace 200 series details.
Toyota Alphard 20 Series (2008 to 2015)
The Toyota Alphard is a premium people mover with factory fitted wheelchair accessibility in the Welcab variant. The low floor entry and side access ramp make it suitable for a wide range of mobility needs. Access measurements: Floor to ceiling height 138cm, width at rear 78cm. Starting from $44,500. View Toyota Alphard 20 series details.
Toyota Voxy and Toyota Noah Welcab
The Toyota Voxy and Noah Welcab models offer a practical balance of wheelchair accessibility, passenger capacity, and everyday usability. Both models feature a factory designed rear ramp and dedicated wheelchair restraint positions. Available in 70 series (2007 to 2014) from $28,500 and 80 series (2015 to 2019) from $44,500.
Toyota Sienta NCP8x Series (2003 to 2015)
The Toyota Sienta Welcab is a compact, practical option for wheelchair users who need an accessible vehicle for urban use. Its smaller footprint makes it easier to park and manoeuvre in city environments while retaining full wheelchair accessibility. Starting from $28,500. View Toyota Sienta details.
Nissan Serena C27 Series (2016 to 2025)
The Nissan Serena C27 Welcab is one of the most recent and well equipped used wheelchair accessible people movers available through our range. Manufactured between 2016 and 2025, it combines modern safety features with purpose built wheelchair access. Starting from $44,500. View Nissan Serena C27 details.
Toyota Ractis Welcab (2005 to 2016)
The Toyota Ractis is a compact Welcab option suited to participants who need a smaller, more affordable used wheelchair accessible vehicle for light daily use. Available across two generations: the first generation (NCP100 series, 2005 to 2010) and the second generation (NSP120 series, 2010 to 2016). The second generation Ractis received the first vehicle-type certification for the wheelchair-adapted category in Japan. Starting from $44,500. View Toyota Ractis details.
What to Look For in a Used Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle
Choosing the right used wheelchair accessible vehicle involves more than finding one that fits your budget. Consider the following:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Type of wheelchair or mobility aid | The vehicle must accommodate your specific wheelchair dimensions. Always confirm floor to ceiling height, ramp width, and interior width before purchasing. |
| Passenger or driver accessibility | Most used WAVs in our range are configured for rear passenger wheelchair access. If the participant needs to drive from their wheelchair, a different configuration may be required. |
| Ramp vs hoist | Ramps are generally simpler and lower cost to maintain. Hoists and electronic lifts are better suited to heavier power wheelchairs or participants who cannot self-propel up a ramp. See our guide on WAV conversion options for a full comparison. |
| Passenger capacity | Consider how many other passengers need to travel alongside the wheelchair occupant. Some models sacrifice passenger seating for wheelchair access. |
| Vehicle age and condition | All our vehicles are used. We source directly from Japan through the auction market. Vehicles are inspected and assessed before sale. |
| NDIS compliance | If NDIS funding is being used for modifications, ensure the vehicle and any modifications will meet the requirements of your OT assessment and NDIS funding approval. |
For more guidance on choosing the right vehicle, see our complete guide on how to choose the right disability vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does NDIS pay for a wheelchair accessible vehicle?
NDIS does not directly fund the purchase of a vehicle, including a used wheelchair accessible vehicle. NDIS may fund the cost of vehicle modifications and equipment under the Capital Supports (Assistive Technology) budget. OT assessments, vehicle modification trials, and related training are typically funded under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living. The vehicle purchase itself must be funded separately. Contact your NDIS planner or support coordinator to confirm what is available under your specific plan.
Are your vehicles suitable for NDIS participants?
Yes. All our used wheelchair accessible vehicles have factory fitted accessibility features suitable for many NDIS participants. However, suitability depends on the individual participant’s needs, wheelchair specifications, and support requirements. We recommend obtaining an Occupational Therapist assessment before purchasing to confirm the vehicle meets your specific requirements. to find a model that suits your needs, visit our used wheelchair accessible vehicles page.
Can I inspect the vehicle before purchasing?
Yes. All our vehicles are available for inspection at our Campbellfield, Melbourne facility. We encourage all buyers, particularly those purchasing for NDIS or disability support purposes, to inspect the vehicle in person and to bring their wheelchair or mobility aid to confirm fit and accessibility.
Do you sell new wheelchair accessible vehicles?
No. Glam Groups specialises exclusively in used and second hand wheelchair accessible vehicles. All vehicles in our range are sourced from Japan and are previously owned. We do not sell new vehicles.
What documentation do you provide with each vehicle?
Each vehicle is sold with available Japanese export documentation and vehicle history information. We can provide vehicle specifications and accessibility measurements to support OT assessments and NDIS funding applications. Contact us to discuss your specific documentation requirements.
Can you help with NDIS paperwork?
We can provide vehicle specifications, accessibility measurements, photos, and product information to support your OT assessment and NDIS funding application. We are not registered to provide NDIS planning advice. For guidance on your NDIS plan and funding options, please consult your support coordinator or plan manager.
Contact Glam Groups
Glam Groups is a registered NDIS provider based in Campbellfield, Melbourne. We have been supplying used wheelchair accessible vehicles since 2002.
21A Dennis Street, Campbellfield, Victoria, 3061
Phone: (03) 9303 7252
Email: sales@glamgroups.com.au
Contact our team to discuss your requirements, arrange an inspection, or request vehicle specifications for your OT assessment.
Disclaimer: NDIS funding rules, support categories, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. This guide reflects general information current as of June 2026. Always confirm your specific funding entitlements with your NDIS planner, support coordinator, or plan manager before making any purchasing decisions.
