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What we offer for hire

We hire out iPads, software and communication apps, alternative mouses, switches, switch toys, Wizzybugs and other equipment through our Library. You can try equipment out for a few months to see how it works before you commit to buying it.

We can provide ongoing support for your referring therapist and team during the loan via our support packages. Through the training packages, we walk with you every step of the way to customise or adjust equipment to suit you, so you get the most out of it. 

Whether you need 2 hours of support, or 4 or 6 more, we can work with you to tailor the package to suit your needs. Here are some examples of packages we can provide for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Access Technology (accessing your communication device, computer, home environment etc.): 

Support Packages for AAC

Level 1 support - BASIC

For therapists/team who are very familiar with the equipment, or for less complex equipment or applications. This may be a session on basic editing or implementation principles (2.25 hours)

Level 2 support – STANDARD (Recommended Minimum)

For therapists/teams loaning one or more AAC apps on an iPad, requiring support in editing of the software and/ or support in implementation (4.5 Hours) 

Level 3 support – MODERATE

For therapists/teams wanting a higher level of support for a longer trial, e.g. trial of 1 or more communication apps for iPad, requiring support in editing the software, creating goals for the trial, principles of implementation/ teaching complex communication systems; team is looking for more regular support/ troubleshooting and check-ins throughout the trial process (7 hours)

Level 4 support- COMPREHENSIVE

Suitable for those with a longer-term loan of equipment, especially with complex communication systems (i.e. communication apps on iPad). Extended support is provided in editing the software, creating goals for the trial, principles of implementation/ teaching complex communication systems, troubleshooting and check-ins throughout the trial process  (10 hours+)

Support Packages for Access Technology

Level 1 support - BASIC

For therapists/ team members who are familiar with the equipment, or it is less complex equipment e.g. learning how to customise apps with media for switch access or getting a specialised head operated mouse set up. This includes 1 session for up to 1 hour with the primary therapist, provided by a ComTEC Occupational Therapist. (2.25 hours)

Level 2 support - STANDARD

For therapists/team members wanting moderate support e.g.  getting started with the set up and trial of voice recognition software or alternative access hardware and software, making adjustments/ maximising the use of an eyegaze system; basic support in implementation or a home visit to set up switches and mounts or specialised mice/keyboards for your loan. This includes 1 home visit in collaboration with the primary therapist (if within 30 minutes travel)  provided by a ComTEC Occupational Therapist; preparation (duration will vary dependent on request) and 15 minutes for file notes (4.5 hours).

Level 3 support - MODERATE

For teams or therapists wanting support for a longer trial, e.g. of 1 or more customisable apps for switching, assistance with an eyegaze system set up or an environmental control set up; support in editing the software,  or looking for more regular support/ troubleshooting and check-ins throughout the trial process. Depending on location, this could include a home visit/s; 2-4 sessions depending if they are face to face or via Telehealth,  approximately 1.5 hour duration with the primary therapist, provided by a ComTEC Occupational Therapist.  The full cost of the package includes preparation and planning (approximately 1 hour, however duration for preparation is dependent on the complexity of the request) and 15 minutes for file notes (7 hours).

Level 4 support- COMPREHENSIVE

Suitable for those with a longer-term loan of equipment, especially with complex systems (i.e. eyegaze access or environmental control. Depending on location, this could include additional home visit/s to assist with tweaking set ups . This can includes 3+ sessions of 1.5 hour duration with the primary therapist, provided by a ComTEC Occupational Therapist.  The full cost of the package includes preparation and planning (approximately 1 hour preparation, dependent on complexity), follow up and 15 minutes per session for file notes (10 hours or more).

Hire length

Our hires are usually between 1 to 3 months, although you can extend your hire if it’s going well or arrange a longer hire if that is what you need. 

The hire commencement date is from the day that you receive the equipment. You will receive an email reminder a few days before the hire end date and then you can request a hire extension or we will contact you to arrange return of the equipment.

Hire fees 

A monthly fee is charged for each hire which can be funded from your NDIS plan, insurance, or aged care package. The fee depends on the item, and is listed in the library.  There is also a $50 return package and delivery fee. Some equipment items also require setup, for example, iPads with apps require resetting between each hire to ensure privacy of data, installing updates and apps, purchasing and installing voices as required, setting up page sets and grid layouts. We usually charge one hour therapy time to setup the iPad for hire.

We will always send you a quote to review and sign prior to commencement of the hire.

Waiting times 

Depending on the item, the wait time to receive it is likely to be 1-2 weeks. We will send it to you via courier. We can send anywhere in Australia. You can borrow as many items as you like!  

Damage and Repairs

We take every step to ensure that the equipment is packaged securely for transit and that appropriate protection is provided for each equipment item. For example, we use rugged iPad cases as we expect them to be dropped during the trial, as we want the user to have access to their communication device wherever they are.

If there is a situation where some damage does occur to an item whilst on hire, you don't have to worry as we cover all maintenance and repairs. Just let us know and we can arrange a replacement and have the damaged item returned to us for repair.

Search our library or complete our ComTEC Equipment Library Hire form to get started.