Stairlifts Australia: Complete Guide to Costs, NDIS Funding & Installation

If stairs have become a challenge in your home, a stairlift can restore your independence and safety. This guide covers everything Australian homeowners and NDIS participants need to know about stairlifts.

Types of Stairlifts Available in Australia

  • Straight stairlifts — For staircases that go straight up with no curves or landings. Most affordable option.
  • Curved stairlifts — Custom-built to follow curves, bends, and intermediate landings. More expensive but essential for complex staircases.
  • Outdoor stairlifts — Weather-resistant models designed for external stairs, porches, and garden access.
  • Platform lifts — For wheelchair users, providing a platform that raises and lowers along the staircase.
Acorn 130 straight stairlift — compact design for straight staircases
Acorn 130 — Australia's most popular straight stairlift
Acorn 180 curved stairlift — follows bends and landings
Acorn 180 curved stairlift for complex staircases

Stairlift Costs in Australia

Stairlift prices vary significantly by type, brand, and installation complexity:

  • Straight stairlift: $3,500 – $6,000 installed
  • Curved stairlift: $8,000 – $15,000+ depending on complexity
  • Outdoor stairlift: $5,000 – $10,000
  • Platform lift: $15,000 – $30,000+

These prices typically include installation, warranty, and basic maintenance. Get a free stairlift consultation →

Stannah Siena straight stairlift — slim design with folding seat
Stannah Siena — available through Australian dealers
Handicare 1100 straight stairlift — ultra slim rail design
Handicare 1100 — narrowest rail on the market, NDIS-registered

Popular Stairlift Brands in Australia

Several top-quality stairlift brands are available across Australia. Here are the most trusted manufacturers:

Stannah Starla stairlift with wooden trim and fabric upholstery
Stannah Starla — premium stairlift with customisable colours and wood trim
Stannah Siena stairlift in use on a straight staircase
Stannah Siena model in use on a straight staircase
Handicare 1100 stairlift folded away for minimal space usage
Handicare 1100 folded — ultra-compact when not in use
Person sitting on an Acorn 130 stairlift with seatbelt fastened
Acorn 130 — with seatbelt, swivel seat, and fold-down footrest

NDIS Funding for Stairlifts

Stairlifts can be funded under the NDIS if deemed reasonable and necessary. The process requires:

  • An occupational therapy assessment recommending a stairlift
  • Evidence that the stairlift is the most appropriate solution
  • Quotes from NDIS-registered suppliers

Read our complete NDIS home modifications guide →

Stairlift Installation Process

  1. Home assessment — A technician visits to measure your staircase and determine the best model.
  2. Model selection — Choose between brands and features based on your needs and budget.
  3. Installation — Most straight stairlifts can be installed in 2-4 hours. Curved stairlifts take longer.
  4. Handover & training — You'll be shown how to use the stairlift safely.

Stairlift Guides by City

Looking for information specific to your city? We have dedicated local guides:

National Stair Lift Guides

Looking for information about stair lifts across Australia? Our national guides cover everything:

Stair Lifts for Elderly Australia

Complete guide to stair lifts for seniors — costs, types, NDIS funding, and finding installers.

Stair Chair Lift Prices Australia

Compare prices across all brands and types. Straight, curved, outdoor — get the best deal.

City-Specific Stairlift Guides

Sydney Melbourne Brisbane Perth Adelaide Gold Coast

Get a Free Stairlift Consultation

Not sure which stairlift is right for you? We'll connect you with trusted specialists in your area.

Official NDIS Sources