Walk in Bath Australia: The Complete Buyer's Guide
A walk in bath can make bathing safer, easier, and more comfortable for older Australians and people with mobility challenges. This guide covers everything you need to know — costs, types, NDIS funding, and how to find the right specialist for installation.
What is a Walk in Bath?
A walk in bath (also called a walk-in bath or easy-access bath) is a bathtub with a low step-in height and a watertight door, allowing you to enter without climbing over a high bath edge. Once inside, you close the door, fill the bath, and soak in comfort.
Unlike traditional baths that require stepping over a 400-500mm high rim, walk in baths typically have a step-in height of 100-200mm — similar to stepping into a shower. This makes them ideal for people with reduced mobility, arthritis, or balance concerns who still want the therapeutic benefits of bathing.
Walk in baths are distinct from walk in showers (level-access showers with no step), which are better suited for wheelchair users and tend to be more cost-effective. The choice depends on your specific needs, bathroom layout, and whether you value soaking over showering access.
Walk in Bath Costs in Australia
| Type | Price Range (installed) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard walk in bath | $3,000 – $5,500 | Low step-in, watertight door, basic seating |
| Walk in bath with hydrotherapy | $5,500 – $9,000 | Water jets, air jets, or both for therapeutic massage |
| Walk in bath with heated seat | $6,000 – $10,000 | Self-heating seat, fast-fill taps, warmer surface |
| Premium walk in bath | $8,000 – $14,000 | Quick-fill/empty system, heated surfaces, chromotherapy, multiple jet configurations |
Additional costs to budget for:
- Plumbing modifications: $300 – $1,000
- Electrical work (for heated seats, jets): $200 – $800
- Removal and disposal of old bath: $150 – $400
- Tiling or waterproofing if replacing an existing bath: $500 – $2,000
Prices vary by city and installer. We recommend getting at least two quotes for any walk in bath installation.
NDIS Funding for Walk in Baths
The NDIS may fund a walk in bath as part of your home modification budget if certain conditions are met. The modification must be:
- Reasonable and necessary — related to your disability support needs
- Recommended by an occupational therapist — the OT assessment must document why a walk in bath is required over a less expensive alternative like a walk in shower
- Part of your NDIS plan — either in your current plan or added through a plan variation
Important: NDIS typically funds the lowest-cost suitable option. A walk in bath may need stronger clinical justification than a walk-in shower because it is generally more expensive and offers soaking rather than essential access. Your OT's report is critical here.
Learn more about the NDIS home modification process →
Walk in Bath vs Walk in Shower
| Factor | Walk in Bath | Walk in Shower |
|---|---|---|
| Step-in height | 100-200mm | Level access (0mm) |
| Best for | People who want to soak, hydrotherapy | Wheelchair users, everyday showering |
| Cost range | $3,000 – $14,000 | $2,500 – $8,000 |
| Installation time | 2-4 days (incl. plumbing/electrical) | 1-3 days |
| NDIS funding likelihood | Moderate (needs strong OT justification) | High (standard modification) |
| Water usage | Full bath fill (soak) | Running water (shower) |
Types of Walk in Baths
Side-Entry Walk in Baths
The door is on the long side of the bath. You sit on a built-in seat, swing your legs in, and close the door. The most common and affordable type.
End-Entry Walk in Baths
The door is at the end of the bath, allowing you to walk straight in. Better for people who find side-swinging difficult. Less common, slightly more expensive.
Walk in Tubs
Deeper walk in baths designed for full submersion while seated. Often include hydrotherapy jets. Require more water and stronger hot water systems.
Walk in Bath with Shower Combo
A walk in bath with a shower head and screen/curtain, offering both bathing and showering flexibility. The most versatile option for smaller bathrooms.
Popular Walk in Bath Brands in Australia
- Reva Bathrooms — Australian brand, wide range of sizes and configurations, good warranty
- Atlanta Bathware — Established Australian manufacturer, quality acrylic baths with walk-in options
- Clark Taps and Bathrooms — Specialised in accessible bathing solutions, custom sizing available
- Mobility Bath Solutions — Focused on mobility-friendly baths, quick-fill systems standard
- Premier Bathrooms — UK-based but available through Australian suppliers, premium heated seats
Your local specialist can advise which brands they stock and recommend based on your bathroom dimensions and requirements.
Installation Requirements
Installing a walk in bath involves several trades and considerations:
- Plumbing — Supply lines and waste/drainage need to connect to the new bath's door mechanism and outlet. A licensed plumber is essential.
- Electrical — If your bath has heated seats, hydrotherapy jets, or quick-fill systems, a licensed electrician is needed for the connection. All electrical work near water must comply with Australian standards (AS/NZS 3000).
- Waterproofing — The surrounding area must be properly waterproofed, especially if the new bath replaces an existing one with a different footprint.
- Structural — Walk in baths with water are heavy. The floor must be able to support the weight, particularly in older homes or elevated bathrooms.
Most installations take 1-3 days depending on the complexity of the plumbing and any structural work needed.
Find Walk in Bath Installers Near You
We work with qualified bathroom modification specialists across Australia. Get matched with local experts who can supply and install walk in baths in your area.
Browse by city:
- Walk in baths Sydney
- Walk in baths Melbourne
- Walk in baths Brisbane
- Walk in baths Perth
- Walk in baths Adelaide
- Walk in baths Gold Coast
Not in one of these cities? Find help near you →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a walk in bath cost in Australia?
Walk in baths in Australia typically cost $3,000-$8,000 for a standard model including installation. Premium models with hydrotherapy jets, heated seats, or quick-fill systems range from $6,000-$12,000. Installation costs vary by city and bathroom configuration. Always get at least two quotes.
Does NDIS fund walk in baths?
NDIS may fund a walk in bath if it is deemed reasonable and necessary for your disability support needs. You need an Occupational Therapy assessment that demonstrates the walk in bath is required for safe bathing. The bath must be related to your disability, not just age-related frailty, to qualify for NDIS funding.
What is the difference between a walk in bath and a walk in shower?
A walk in bath has a low step-in threshold and a door that seals shut, allowing you to sit and soak. A walk in shower has level access with no step. Walk in baths are better for those who want to bathe lying down or need hydrotherapy. Walk in showers are more accessible for wheelchair users and typically more cost-effective.
Do I need plumbing modifications to install a walk in bath?
Yes, most walk in bath installations require plumbing work to connect the supply and waste lines, and potentially electrical work for features like heated seats, hydrotherapy jets, or quick-fill systems. A licensed plumber and electrician are required for the installation.
What are the best walk in bath brands in Australia?
Leading walk in bath brands available in Australia include Reva Bathrooms, Atlanta Bathware, Clark Taps and Bathrooms, and Mobility Bath Solutions. Many Australian suppliers also offer custom configurations. Your local specialist can recommend the best brand for your specific needs and bathroom layout.
How long does walk in bath installation take?
Most walk in bath installations take 1-3 days. Day 1 involves removing the old bath and preparing the area. Days 2-3 cover plumbing, electrical (if needed), waterproofing, and final installation. Premium models with advanced features may take longer.
Can a walk in bath be installed in a small bathroom?
Yes, many walk in baths are designed for smaller spaces. Compact models are available at 1200mm-1400mm length. Your installer can assess your bathroom and recommend the best size and configuration for the available space.