Yooralla’s On the Move powered mobility program

Powered mobility includes power wheelchairs and other types of battery powered devices used by children to move to where they want to go. They allow children to move around with their friends and family, create social connections and develop their independence. We currently have the following powered mobility devices available to hire:

• Wizzybugs - a type of powered wheelchair which look a bit like a car and can be used by young children approximately 14 months to five years of age. They offer supportive seating options and can be used indoors or outdoors. We have one of the biggest fleets of Wizzybugs in the country and can support children and families anywhere in Australia!
• Permobil Mini Explorer - an ergonomic indoor device with multiple weight bearing surfaces to promote safe, stable upright postures. They support children aged 12-36 months with mobility impairments the opportunity to develop strength, endurance and postural control, whilst having fun exploring their home.

We have options to trial and hire these devices and can support you to find the most suitable device for the age and stage your child is at.

There is extensive research supporting the benefits of powered mobility for young children. Powered mobility can support people to develop and build essential skills like seeing, thinking, socialising and understanding their surroundings.

Using powered mobility can improve body functions like sleep, mood and motivation. It also helps with activities like moving independently, communicating and taking part in social interactions, play and friendships. These devices shouldn’t be seen as a last option; instead, they are a valuable tool to encourage self-directed movement and development.

• They are safe: children using powered mobility should always be closely supervised to ensure safety.
• They are often quick to learn: any skill acquisition takes time and is variable, depending on the individual and environmental circumstances. Research has found that children take at least 12 weeks to become familiar with and use powered mobility.
• They fit in your car: that's right - the devices can be disassembled into parts that fit into the boot of your car. We've even tested them in a Toyota Corolla!
• They are flexible: We have options to adapt the set-up of your device, including alternative controls to help your child use them. There are postural supports within the seating system that also accommodate growth, particularly in the Wizzybug.

There are various options for exploring powered mobility and this can start as early as seven months. Current research indicates that children as young as 14 months are able to use powered mobility to enhance their mobility, receptive communication and self-care skills.

At Yooralla, our experienced physiotherapists and occupational therapists offer therapeutic, tailored supports designed to meet the specific needs of each child. We work closely with you, your child and your child's regular therapist, to maximise success. Our team provides comprehensive support, including:  

• assessment  
• one-off trial of powered mobility devices to gather information and evidence for funding
• training for parents and carers to support your child to get the most out of their powered mobility device
• training about how to use the powered mobility device within your child's everyday environment
• information and training on improving your child's skills using powered mobility, and 
• advice when exploring long-term mobility options as they grow out of the Wizzybug or Permobil Mini Explorer.

The cost of a powered mobility device depends on the type of device being hired, the length of hire and the specialist therapy support required. Get in touch with us for an accurate quote based on your child's needs.

To hire any of our powered mobility devices, participants can use funding from one of the following categories in their NDIS plan:

• Capital Supports: Assistive Technology.
• Core Supports: Assistance with Daily Life or Consumables.

Please note: we bill in line with the NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits.