Everyday life gets tougher when your body stops working the way it used to. Whether it’s a broken bone, chronic condition or age slowing things down, most people need a bit of help at some point. That’s where disability aids for hire step in and make life easier.
These aids support movement, comfort and independence — without needing to buy gear you’ll only use for a short time. With more Australians choosing to age at home, care for loved ones or recover outside hospitals, renting mobility equipment is becoming a smarter, more flexible option.
Let’s break it down and show how you can make the most of it.
Why Hiring Works for Short or Long-Term Needs
Not everyone wants or needs to buy mobility equipment. Hiring suits people who are healing from surgery, supporting family, managing temporary issues or trying gear before making a big purchase.
Here’s why more Aussies are renting:
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Lower upfront costs
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No maintenance or storage worries
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Flexible return times
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Fast access during emergencies
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Access to a wider range of equipment
When time, space and money matter, hiring gives you freedom to get exactly what you need — and nothing you don’t. For families caring for parents at home, or individuals transitioning from hospital care, this flexibility makes a big difference.
Plenty of everyday tools are available for short-term or long-term support. You can explore the most common mobility aids available for different needs to get a feel for what’s out there.
Tools That Help You Stay on the Move
Mobility is about more than walking. It’s about confidence, balance and getting from A to B without relying on others. That’s where hired mobility aids come in — helping people stay active, safe and in control.
Some popular options include:
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Wheelchairs, both self-propelled and attendant-driven
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Mobility scooters for outdoor independence
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Walkers and rollators with wheels and built-in seating
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Walking frames or crutches for short recovery periods
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Knee scooters after ankle or foot injuries
A common example? A 28-year-old recovering from surgery after an ankle fracture used a hired knee scooter to keep working while off his feet. Instead of weeks of isolation, he stayed mobile, social and in control of his routine.
These aids don’t just offer movement — they offer freedom. So many Australians, from younger folks recovering from injuries to older adults maintaining independence, find new confidence with the right gear.
Equipment That Supports Daily Living at Home
Mobility is only part of the puzzle. Many people also need help with sitting, sleeping, bathing or moving around the house. These daily tasks can become difficult or unsafe without proper support.
Hiring gear for daily living helps people manage:
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Bathing with shower chairs, over-toilet frames or commodes
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Sleeping using adjustable beds, pressure-relief mattresses or rails
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Transfers with hoists, slide sheets or turning cushions
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Seating through recliners or postural support chairs
One Brisbane man hired a recliner and bed rail after shoulder surgery, saying it allowed him to sleep properly and avoid another hospital stay. He returned the equipment after five weeks and was back to full health.
These practical supports keep people comfortable, clean and safe — without turning a home into a hospital. You can read more about how people integrate these aids into everyday life by looking at assistive devices that can enhance daily life for people with disabilities.
Choosing the Right Aid for Your Body and Space
Not all aids work for everyone. Choosing the wrong one could mean discomfort, poor fit or even injury. That’s why selecting the right gear matters so much.
Here’s how to pick the right fit:
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Know the task — is it for walking, toileting, or sleeping?
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Think about space — can it fit through your hallways and doors?
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Match the body size — weight limits and height settings matter
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Decide the timeframe — short-term or months of support?
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Focus on comfort and safety — things like handgrips, brakes and padding
If it feels confusing, talk to an occupational therapist or the hire provider. Some even let you test different options before committing.
There’s a handy breakdown on how to match equipment to your needs in this comprehensive buyer’s guide for selecting the right mobility aid — it covers everything from walkers to recliners.
Renting for a Day, a Month, or More
How long do you need the equipment? This changes everything. Short-term hire works for post-op recovery, events or holidays. Long-term hire fits ongoing disability management or ageing support.
Short-term hire is best when:
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You’re coming home after surgery or a hospital stay
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Someone with mobility needs is visiting
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You need backup gear for travel or temporary care
Long-term hire works when:
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You’re managing a long-term condition
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You’re trying different aids before buying
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You receive support through NDIS or aged care funding
Hiring periods are flexible — some providers offer by-the-day, others weekly or monthly. Ask if long-term rates include maintenance or swap-outs.
How the NDIS Supports Equipment Hire
The NDIS helps people living with disability get the tools they need, including hire equipment. If your plan includes “assistive technology,” you may be able to rent aids under short-term or trial periods.
To hire through the NDIS, you’ll need:
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An approved plan that covers the category
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A quote or invoice from a registered provider
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Support from a therapist to choose the right items
This works well if you're still exploring what works best for you or waiting for permanent equipment to arrive. Equipment hire fills the gap while funding is sorted out or while you’re testing options.
Clean Gear, Safe Use and Quality Checks
Let’s talk safety. Hired gear should always arrive clean, working and safe to use. Trusted providers clean and check every item before it leaves the warehouse.
You should expect:
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Equipment sanitised between hires
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Regular checks for wear or damage
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Replacements if something stops working
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Clear guides or instructions for use
Never take home gear that looks worn, rusty or unclean. Ask the provider when it was last serviced, and what happens if it fails.
A proper service will walk you through setup and answer questions. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your gut — your body’s health comes first.
Local Hire Shops vs Online Ordering
Hiring options fall into two camps: local shops and online services. Both have benefits, depending on your needs and location.
Local stores offer:
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Face-to-face advice and fittings
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Fast swaps if something breaks
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Walk-in access for returns or upgrades
Online stores give you:
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Delivery straight to your door
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Bigger inventory
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Access if you’re in a rural or remote area
If you're unsure which to choose, look for a provider that offers both — local pickup and online browsing. That flexibility helps when you're busy or supporting someone from afar.
Just make sure your provider is based in Australia, knows the health system, and has proper certifications.
Preparing for Travel or Sudden Needs
Life throws curveballs. Sometimes you’ll need mobility support fast — during a trip, an emergency, or when caring for someone at short notice.
Tips for being ready:
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Save a trusted hire company’s number
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Check hotel or event accessibility ahead of time
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Hire transport-friendly gear for flights or road trips
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Store folding aids or compact options for backup use
Some people even hire gear just for weddings, holidays or family gatherings. Having that option ready means no one misses out on big life moments because of mobility limits.
FAQs About Hiring Disability Aids
1. How much does it cost to hire mobility aids in Australia?
It depends on the item and how long you hire it for. A simple walker could cost around $10 per week, while an electric scooter might be closer to $90. Weekly and monthly hire rates vary, and delivery fees may apply. Long-term rates usually offer better value, and some providers include cleaning and servicing. Always ask for a quote upfront.
2. Do I need a doctor’s note to hire equipment?
Usually, no. Most providers will rent to anyone. But if you're accessing hire through the NDIS, My Aged Care or insurance, you may need an assessment from an occupational therapist. They help ensure the gear suits your needs and home setup. For basic items like walkers or shower chairs, no referral is required.
3. What if something breaks during my hire period?
Good providers will replace or repair it at no extra cost. Don’t try to fix it yourself, as that can be dangerous and might break the hire agreement. Call the provider and follow their process. Always check what’s covered under your hire contract before signing.
4. Can I return my hired equipment early?
Yes. Most companies allow early returns. You’ll only be charged for the time you used the equipment, although some may have a minimum hire period. If your condition improves faster than expected, early returns help free up space and reduce costs.
5. Is the equipment clean and safe to use?
Absolutely — if you choose a trusted provider. They should sanitise all gear after return, check it for damage, and ensure it’s in working order before sending it out. Ask about their cleaning and safety standards before hiring. Your health and safety should never be at risk.
Let’s Wrap It Up: Why This Matters More Than Ever
Mobility aids aren’t just gear — they’re lifelines. They let people keep moving, stay home longer, and take control of their comfort and dignity. Hiring is a simple, affordable way to get what you need, when you need it.
With more Australians ageing at home and managing health challenges with independence, flexible hire services will only keep growing. Expect smarter designs, better service and faster delivery in the years to come.
Ready to take control of your mobility journey? Visit Get About Mobility and find the right solution that fits your life, not the other way around.
Please call get in touch today on 1300 168 902 or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.