Funding & Referral Programs for Orthotics, Footwear & AFOs
Foot Balance Technology
Foot Balance Technology is a registered provider for DVA, NDIS, Aged Care, Workers Compensation, Enable NSW and DHS. Find out how to access funded custom orthotics, medical footwear and AFOs.
Funded Orthotics, Medical Footwear & AFO Services
We Work With Your Scheme
AAt Foot Balance Technology (FBT), we believe access to quality foot health care should never be limited by cost. As a Sydney-based certified pedorthist practice - led by Australia’s first ever PhD in pedorthics, Dr Sayed Ahmed, we are registered with a range of Australian government funding bodies and referral programs, making it easier for eligible patients to access custom orthotics, medical-grade footwear and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) at little or no out-of-pocket cost.
Whether you are a veteran, an NDIS participant, a senior on a Home Care Package or recovering from a workplace injury, FBT has the experience and accreditation to guide you through the funding process from referral to fitting.
Patient Referrals Made Easy
You can send us referrals for your patients using the refer a patient Form.
Funding Schemes We Accept
FBT is a registered or approved provider under the following programs. Select your scheme below to learn about eligibility, what's covered and how to get started.
Private Referral
Our clinic welcomes referrals for private patients seeking specialised pedorthic services.
Private Referral Process:
- Self-Funding Patients: A referral is not required for self-funding individuals but we can streamline the consultation process. Your health professionals can fill out the Online Patient Referral Form. Once we receive the referral, we will contact you or you can Contact Us.
- Health Fund Claims: If you plan to claim with your private health fund for custom-made orthopedic footwear and foot orthotic devices, a referral may be required. Contact your health fund to confirm their specific claim requirements.
To assist with your referral or claim, please bring to your appointment:
- Details of your private health fund.
- Any relevant medical documentation or previous assessments.
Scheduling An Appointment
Enable NSW Footwear and Orthotics Funding | Government Support for Diabetic Footwear and Orthotics NSW | Foot Balance Technology
Enable NSW Funding - Government Support for Orthotics & Footwear in NSW
Foot Balance Technology supports eligible NSW residents in accessing custom orthotics and therapeutic footwear through Enable NSW, a program delivered by NSW Health. If you are not funded through the NDIS or another Commonwealth scheme, Enable NSW funding may cover the cost of clinically prescribed devices.
Eligibility & Coverage
Government support for footwear and orthotics in NSW through Enable NSW is available to permanent NSW residents with a disability or chronic condition who are not eligible for NDIS or My Aged Care funding. Enable NSW footwear assistance and custom orthotics funding are approved where there is a ocumented clinical need assessed by a qualified health professional.
NSW health equipment support may include custom foot orthotics, ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) and therapeutic footwear prescribed by our certified pedorthist team at Foot Balance Technology.
How to Apply to Enable NSW
- Confirm you are not funded through NDIS or a Commonwealth program
- Obtain a referral from your GP or treating specialist
- Contact Foot Balance Technology to arrange a clinical assessment
- We prepare supporting documentation and assist with your Enable NSW application
Documentation required for EnableNSW Aids and Equipment program application:
- Consumer Application Form: This can be completed on your visit to our clinic or filled out as an Online Enable NSW Application Form.
- Footwear & Orthotics Request Form: Footwear & Orthotics Request Form. filled out by eligible prescriber.
- Quotation: Quote for recommended footwear device from us after the assessment for the appropriate footwear.
For more information on the EnableNSW process, please contact our office or visit Enable NSW Website.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get footwear and orthotics funded through Enable NSW?
Yes, where you meet eligibility criteria and a clinical need is documented. Foot Balance Technology can assist with your assessment and application.
Who is eligible for Enable NSW support?
Permanent NSW residents with a disability or chronic condition who are not funded through NDIS or another Commonwealth program.
How long does the approval process take?
Timeframes vary depending on application complexity. We will advise you on expected processing times at your assessment.
Do I need a referral to apply?
Yes. A referral from your GP or treating specialist is required as part of the Enable NSW application process.
Scheduling An Appointment
NDIS Orthotics Funding | Custom AFOs & Footwear | Foot Balance Technology
NDIS Orthotics Funding - Custom Orthotics, AFOs & Footwear for Participants
Foot Balance Technology is a registered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Assistive Technology (AT) Provider. Whether you are wondering does NDIS cover custom orthotics, need NDIS AFO braces support or are seeking NDIS footwear support, our certified pedorthist team is experienced in helping participants access funding efficiently and without unnecessary stress.
How NDIS Orthotics Funding Works
Custom orthotics, ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) and therapeutic footwear are generally funded under the Assistive Technology category of your NDIS Capital Supports budget. Depending on cost and complexity, items may require a formal AT assessment report before the NDIA approves the purchase. Foot Balance Technology provides all clinical assessments, AT reports and supporting documentation required.
What can be Prescribed :
- Custom-made Footwear
- Custom foot orthotics
- Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs)
- Medical-grade therapeutic footwear
- Clinical AT assessments and NDIA-compliant reports
Eligibility & Approval Process
To access how to get footwear & orthotics through NDIS, you will generally need an active NDIS plan with Assistive Technology funding, or the ability to request a plan change. Our team can assist your support team where needed. As a NDIS registered provider, Foot Balance Technology works with self-managed, plan managed and NDIA managed participants
How to Get Started
- Check your NDIS plan for Assistive Technology funding under Capital Supports
- Contact Foot Balance Technology to book an assessment
- Our certified pedorthist team assesses your needs and prepares all required documentation
- Funding approval is obtained before manufacturing and fitting commences.
NDIS Process :
- Referral: We work within an Allied Health multidisciplinary team.
A referral detailing the participant’s health history and assistive technology assessment is beneficial.
- Complete the NDIS Referral Form , we will contact you for scheduling appointments, or Contact Us.
- Required Information to facilitate the referral process:
- NDIS number, plan start/end dates and contact details.
- Details of your plan nominee, support coordinator, and plan manager.
- Copies of the “About Me” and “Goals” sections of your plan.
- Relevant reports and scans.
- Referral from a healthcare professional, if applicable.
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with us to assess your needs and sign the NDIS service agreement and the Consent Form.
- Quotes and Approvals: We will provide a quote to the NDIS Coordinator or lodgement centre and await written approval before proceeding with the recommended supply. Discuss recommendations and quotes with your coordinator to align with your NDIS plan.
You can find more about resources regarding our NDIS policy and processes, please check our Resources Section.
For more information about accessing Assistive Technology through the NDIS, Click Here.
Frequently asked questions
Will NDIS pay for custom orthotics?
Yes, where there is a documented functional need and appropriate NDIA approval has been obtained.
Which part of my NDIS plan covers orthotics & Footwear?
Orthotics, footwear, and AFOs are generally funded under Assistive Technology within your Capital Supports budget.
Do I need an assessment before getting footwear and orthotics?
Yes. A clinical assessment and, for higher-cost items, a formal AT report are required before NDIA approval.
Can you help me apply for NDIS funding?
Yes. Foot Balance Technology provides all clinical documentation needed to support your funding request or plan review.
Does icare cover orthotics after injury?
Yes. icare orthotics coverage applies to accepted foot and lower limb injury claims in NSW, subject to clinical justification and prior approval.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Yes. A referral from your GP or treating specialist is required as part of the workers compensation approval process.
Scheduling An Appointment
Aged Care Orthotics Funding | My Aged Care Footwear Support | Foot Balance Technology
Aged Care Orthotics Funding - Footwear & Orthotics Through My Aged Care
Foot Balance Technology supports older Australians in a ccessing footwear and orthotics for seniors through My Aged Care and Home Care Packages. Good foot health is essential for mobility, fall prevention and independence - and aged care funding can make clinically prescribed devices accessible without significant out-of-pocket cost.
Eligibility & Coverage
Older Australians holding a Home Care Package (Level 1–4) may be able to use their funding allocation for custom orthotics, therapeutic footwear and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) as part of their care plan. Home care package footwear and orthotics are generally approved where there is a clear link to your care goals - such as improving mobility, reducing fall risk or managing a chronic foot condition.
Footwear support for the elderly, including extra-depth and custom therapeutic shoes, may also be funded where clinically prescribed by our certified pedorthist team at Foot Balance Technology.
What can be Prescribed :
- Custom-made footwear
- Custom foot orthotics
- Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs)
- Therapeutic and medical-grade footwear
- Clinical assessments and gait analysis
How to Get Started
Speak with your My Aged Care coordinator or Home Care Package provider about including foot health in your care plan, then contact Foot Balance Technology to arrange your assessment at Westmead, Castle Hill or Campbelltown. Adelaide patients can also be seen through our on-demand clinic, with Dr Sayed Ahmed visiting regularly by referral. We work directly with aged care providers to coordinate approvals and billing.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get footwear and orthotics through My Aged Care?
Yes, where your Home Care Package provider approves them as part of your individualised care plan.
Does my home care package cover footwear or orthotics?
It can. Home Care Packages can fund allied health supports including orthotics and therapeutic footwear where clinically justified.
How do I request footwear and orthotics as part of my care plan?
Speak with your care coordinator and ask for foot health to be included. Foot Balance Technology can provide supporting clinical documentation.
Do you work with aged care providers?
Yes. We regularly liaise with Home Care Package providers and care coordinators to streamline approvals and billing.
Scheduling An Appointment
Workers Compensation Footwear | icare Orthotics & Footwear Coverage | Foot Balance Technology
Workers Compensation — icare & WorkCover Foot Injury Support
If you have sustained a foot or lower limb injury at work, Foot Balance Technology can help you access custom footwear, Custom orthotics, ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) and medical-grade footwear through your workers' compensation claim. We are experienced in working with icare in NSW, as well as WorkCover schemes in other states, providing the clinical documentation and certified pedorthist assessments required for insurer approval.
Claiming Footwear & Orthotics After a Work Injury
Where a workplace injury has been accepted by your insurer, orthotics for workplace injury, therapeutic footwear, and AFOs may be funded as part of your approved rehabilitation plan. NSW injury insurance, footwear & orthotics are covered through icare where clinically justified and pre-approved. Return to work foot support through correctly prescribed devices plays a direct role in restoring function, reducing pain and enabling a safe return to duties.
What can be Prescribed :
- Custom foot orthotics
- Custom Footwear
- Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs)
- Medical-grade therapeutic footwear
- Clinical assessments and insurer-compliant reports
- Ongoing review appointments as required by your rehabilitation plan
icare & NSW Workers Compensation
For workers injured in NSW, icare foot injury support covers a range of treatment and rehabilitation services for accepted claims. Foot Balance Technology is experienced in meeting icare's clinical documentation and prior approval requirements. Our certified pedorthist team prepares all necessary reports and liaises with your treating practitioners and insurer throughout the process.
After a workplace injury in NSW must be pre-approved by icare before treatment commences. Proceeding without approval risks the cost not being covered — our team will guide you through every step to ensure this is handled correctly.
Return to Work - The Role of Orthotics & Footwear
Custom footwear and orthotics support rehabilitation medicine outcomes by reducing pain during weight-bearing activity, correcting biomechanical contributors to injury and providing the stability needed to perform work duties safely. Foot Balance Technology works closely with physiotherapists, occupational therapists and rehabilitation specialists to align our clinical input with your broader return-to-work goals.
How to Get Started
- Confirm your workers compensation claim has been accepted
- Obtain a referral from your GP or treating specialist
- Contact Foot Balance Technology to book your assessment
- We prepare all documentation and seek prior approval from your insurer
- Devices are manufactured and fitted once approval is granted
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim orthotics after a workplace injury?
Yes, provided your claim is accepted and your treating doctor recommends orthotics as part of your rehabilitation plan.
Will WorkCover pay for my treatment?
WorkCover and icare can fund orthotics, AFOs and therapeutic footwear where clinically justified and pre-approved as part of an accepted claim.
Do I need approval before getting orthotics?
Yes. Prior insurer approval is required before treatment begins. Foot Balance Technology manages this process on your behalf.
How long does the claim process take?
Approval timeframes vary by insurer and claim complexity. Once approved, custom device manufacturing and fitting typically takes one to two weeks.
Does icare cover orthotics after injury?
Yes. icare orthotics coverage applies to accepted foot and lower limb injury claims in NSW, subject to clinical justification and prior approval.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Yes. A referral from your GP or treating specialist is required as part of the workers compensation approval process.
Scheduling An Appointment
DVA Orthotics Coverage | Medical Footwear for Veterans | Foot Balance Technology
DVA Orthotics Coverage - Custom Footwear & AFOs for Eligible Veterans
Foot Balance Technology is a DVA-approved provider, helping eligible veterans access DVA-funded footwear and orthotics in Australia at no out-of-pocket cost. If you hold a DVA Health Card, you may be entitled to fully funded custom orthotics, medical-grade therapeutic footwear and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) through DVA podiatry services.
Eligibility & Coverage
DVA orthotics coverage is available to Gold Card holders for all clinically necessary treatment, and White Card holders for accepted service-related conditions. Our certified pedorthist team at Foot Balance Technology will confirm your entitlements
DVA medical footwear eligibility extends to custom therapeutic footwear and AFOs where clinically prescribed. Please discuss with your podiatrist or treating medical specialists for your eligibility.
What can be Prescribed :
- Custom-made footwear
- Custom foot orthotics
- Ankle foot orthoses (AFOs)
- Medical-grade therapeutic footwear
- Pedorthic assessments and fittings
DVA card holders Process :
- Contact Foot Balance Technology to confirm your DVA Health Card eligibility and book your assessment at our Westmead, Castle Hill or Campbelltown clinic. Adelaide patients can also be seen through our on-demand clinic, with Dr Sayed Ahmed visiting regularly by referral.
- Consultation: Schedule a consultation with us to assess your needs - bring along the prescription form from your podiatrist or have them sent to us along with the Online Patient Referral Form. Click here for Medical-Grade Footwear Prescription Form. We will contact you for the selection/fitting of the footwear or you can Contact Us.
- Fitting and Claim: Once we receive approval from DVA for the prescription, schedule a fitting appointment or have the shoes sent to your podiatrist to get them fitted.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get footwear and orthotics through DVA?
Yes. Gold Card holders are generally entitled to fully funded orthotics and medical footwear where clinically necessary.
What DVA card do I need for footwear and orthotics?
A Gold Card covers all clinically necessary treatment. A White Card covers accepted service-related conditions only.
Do I need a doctor or podiatrist referral?
Yes, a DVA Medical Grade Footwear Prescription is required from your podiatrist or eligible prescriber is required.
Does DVA cover medical footwear as well?
Yes. As a DVA-approved MGF provider, Foot Balance Technology supplies funded medical-grade therapeutic footwear for eligible veterans.
Scheduling An Appointment
Adelaide On Demand Clinic
Foot Balance Technology operates a clinic in Adelaide, with Dr Sayed Ahmed visiting regularly to see patients on an on-demand basis. A referral from a local podiatrist, pedorthist or treating clinician is required to access this service. Funding options include NDIS, DVA, CHSP, DHS (SA), Private Health Insurance and self-funded arrangements.
Enquire About Adelaide ClinicWhy Choose Foot Balance Technology?
Navigating government funding schemes can feel overwhelming. Our team takes the complexity out of the process - helping you understand your entitlements, coordinating referrals and documentation, and ensuring your prescribed devices are clinically appropriate and individually crafted.
Australia's first PhD in Pedorthics — Dr Sayed Ahmed leads every aspect of our clinical practice
DVA — approved MGF Provider and registered NDIS AT Provider.
Custom orthotics, AFOs and medical-grade footwear — designed and manufactured to exacting clinical standards.
Three Sydney clinics — Westmead, Castle Hill and Campbelltown - with remote assessment coordination available for regional and interstate patients and an on demand clinic in Adelaide.
Research-backed practice — actively partnered with Charles Sturt University, UTS and international clinical networks.
Frequently asked questions
Who leads the clinical team at Foot Balance Technology?
Dr Sayed Ahmed - holder of Australia's first PhD in Pedorthics - is the founder and clinical director of FBT, setting the clinical standards and protocols that guide every patient's care across all locations.
Do I need a referral to access funded orthotics or footwear through FBT?
It depends on your funding scheme. DVA and Workers Compensation typically require a referral from a GP or medical specialist. NDIS, Aged Care and Enable NSW may require an assessment or support coordinator involvement. Contact us and we'll let you know exactly what's needed for your situation.
Can I access FBT's services if I live outside NSW?
Yes. While our three clinics are located in Sydney - at Westmead, Castle Hill and Campbelltown - we assist patients from across Australia for specialised custom footwear, orthotics and AFOs. We also have an on demand clinic in Adelaide. Remote assessment coordination and delivery can be arranged where appropriate.
How long does the funding approval process take?
This varies by scheme. Some DVA approvals are straightforward and relatively quick, while NDIS plan amendments or Enable NSW applications can take several weeks. Our team will give you a realistic timeframe once we know which program applies to you.
Can I be funded through more than one scheme at the same time?
Generally no - most government funding programs require that you access support through a single scheme at a time. However, our team can help you identify which program offers the best coverage for your specific clinical needs.
What types of devices and footwear are typically covered?
Most schemes cover custom foot orthotics, medical-grade therapeutic footwear and ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) when they are clinically prescribed and medically necessary. Coverage details vary by program - each scheme page on this site outlines exactly what is included.
Find Us Easily
Westmead Clinic
To visit our Westmead clinic for an in-person appointment, we are located at Unit 19, 1A Ashley Lane, just 250 metres from Westmead Station, making it easy to access by train or local transport.
Room 19, 1A Ashley Lane Westmead NSW2145
info@footbalancetech.com.au
1300 246 328
Castle Hill Clinic
To visit our Castle Hill clinic for an in-person appointment, we are located at Unit 8, 15 Carrington Rd, just 650 metres from the Hills Showground Metro station, with on-site parking available.
Unit 8, 15 Carrington Rd Castle Hill NSW2154
info@footbalancetech.com
1300 246 328
Campbelltown Clinic
20 King St, Campbelltown NSW 2560 (Open on Thursday only)
info@footbalancetech.com.au
1300 246 328
Our Research Partners
Accepted Health Funds & Government Funding
Not Sure Which Scheme Applies to You?
That's completely fine - many patients come to us unsure of their entitlements. Our team is happy to help you identify the right funding pathway before your first appointment.
Call us, send an enquiry, or book a consultation below and we'll point you in the right direction.