AAC Assessment

An AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted by a registered speech pathologist to determine the most appropriate communication system for someone who has difficulty using speech alone to meet their daily communication needs. The assessment examines the individual’s current communication abilities, physical and cognitive skills, communication partners, and the environments where they communicate. Results guide recommendations for AAC systems, which may range from low-tech options like picture boards to high-tech speech-generating devices.

AAC assessments can support a wide range of people, including children with developmental delays or autism spectrum disorder who have limited or no speech, adults who have lost speech due to stroke, traumatic brain injury, or progressive neurological conditions such as motor neurone disease or Parkinson’s disease, and people with intellectual disability who need additional support to communicate effectively. Anyone whose speech does not reliably meet their everyday communication needs may benefit from an AAC assessment to explore tools and strategies that can enhance their ability to express themselves.

AAC systems are broadly grouped into low-tech and high-tech options. Low-tech systems include picture exchange communication systems (PECS), communication boards, symbol charts, and choice boards that do not require electricity or digital devices. High-tech systems include tablet-based communication apps, dedicated speech-generating devices, and eye-gaze technology for people with limited physical movement. Many people use a combination of low-tech and high-tech tools depending on the situation. Your speech pathologist will assess which systems best match the individual’s abilities, preferences, and communication environments.

Yes, AAC assessments and communication devices are commonly funded through NDIS plans. Assessments are typically covered under Capacity Building Supports (Improved Daily Living), while AAC devices and equipment may be funded under Assistive Technology supports. The level of funding available depends on your individual plan goals and the complexity of the communication needs. Our speech pathologists prepare detailed assessment reports and equipment justifications that meet NDIS requirements, supporting the approval process for both the assessment and any recommended AAC systems.

During an AAC assessment, your speech pathologist will gather information about the individual’s communication history, current abilities, physical and cognitive skills, and the environments where they need to communicate. The assessment involves observing how the person currently communicates, trialling different AAC tools and strategies, and assessing motor skills relevant to device access such as pointing, touching a screen, or using switches. Family members, carers, and other communication partners are often involved to ensure the recommended system works across all settings. The assessment may take one or more sessions depending on complexity.

Learning to use an AAC system is an ongoing process that varies significantly depending on the individual’s age, cognitive abilities, the type of system recommended, and how consistently the system is used across environments. Some people begin using basic functions within weeks, while building fluency with a more complex system may take months of regular practice and support. Your speech pathologist will provide training for the individual, family members, and carers, and will schedule regular follow-up sessions to support skill development, troubleshoot challenges, and expand the system as communication abilities grow.

Booking an AAC assessment is straightforward. You can request an appointment through our website or by calling our team directly. No GP referral is required, though we accept referrals from GPs, paediatricians, speech pathologists, support coordinators, and other health professionals. Our registered speech pathologists deliver AAC assessments through our mobile service across Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania, conducting sessions in the individual’s home, school, or community setting. We work with NDIS participants and families accessing private funding to ensure AAC assessment services are accessible.