Powered Wheelchairs Funded by ACC in New Zealand: What You Need to Know

If you or someone you care for has experienced a mobility affecting injury or accident in New Zealand, you may be eligible to receive a funded powered wheelchair through ACC (the Accident Compensation Corporation). This article explains how the process works, who qualifies, and what steps to take.

Does ACC Fund Powered Wheelchairs?

Yes. ACC may fund powered wheelchairs and other mobility equipment for people whose mobility has been affected by an injury, accident, or covered medical event. This includes:

• Road accidents

• Workplace injuries

• Injuries sustained at home or in sport

• Some medical events such as strokes, where ACC cover applies

Funded equipment is typically provided to support rehabilitation and to help people participate in daily activities and community life.

Who Is Eligible for an ACC-Funded Powerchair?

To be eligible for ACC-funded mobility equipment, you generally need to meet all of the following:

1. You have an active ACC claim related to the event that is affecting your mobility

2. Your mobility limitation has been assessed by a medical professional or Occupational Therapist (OT)

3. The equipment has been recommended as necessary for daily function or rehabilitation

4. The equipment meets ACC's criteria for funding

An OT assessment is an important part of the process — the OT will document your mobility needs and recommend specific equipment that is clinically appropriate.

How Does the ACC Funding Process Work?

The general process for receiving ACC funded mobility equipment in New Zealand is:

1. Speak to your GP or specialist — Confirm your ACC cover and discuss your mobility needs

2. Get an OT referral — An Occupational Therapist will assess your functional mobility and recommend appropriate equipment

3. Equipment is prescribed — The OT writes a prescription specifying the device required

4. Supplier provides equipment — ACC-funded equipment is typically provided through approved suppliers such as Enable New Zealand or Accessable

What About Anvia Products and ACC Funding?

Anvia is a New Zealand mobility provider supplying Powerchair. Anvia is currently working toward supplier panel registration with Enable New Zealand and Accessable, which are the primary approved equipment suppliers for ACC-funded pathways.

In the meantime, Anvia products are available for private purchase directly through anvia.co.nz.

If you or your OT are interested in Anvia products for an ACC-related assessment, please contact us — we can provide full clinical documentation, product specifications, and trial units to support the assessment process.

What If I Don't Qualify for ACC Funding?

If your mobility needs are not covered by ACC, other options may include:

• Disability Support Services (DSS) via the Ministry of Health, for people with long-term disabilities

• WINZ assistance for people with demonstrated financial need

• Private purchase directly from Anvia

For a full guide to funding eligibility in New Zealand, visit anvia.co.nz/am-i-eligible-for-funding.