A guide to choosing second-hand assistive technology

Assistive technology (AT) products are designed to make everyday tasks easier. AT can help you stay independent and maintain your quality of life.  

Buying second-hand AT can be a more affordable way to get the items and support you need. But it’s important to remember that second-hand items don’t have the same protections as new items.

Tips for buying second-hand assistive products

Here are some things to keep in mind when looking at purchasing second-hand AT.

Check the condition

Even if a second-hand item looks fine, it could have hidden damage that makes it unsafe. For example, items that have been dropped or bumped may look fine on the outside but could be faulty on the inside. 

Avoid buying AT that has been repaired or changed in any way. These changes may not meet safety standards and could be risky to use. 

Check custom-fitted items

Some AT might have been custom made to fit the needs of the previous owner. These might not be right for you or could need adjustments. 

Before buying such items, it’s a good idea to get them checked by a health professional. This will make sure they are safe and suitable for you or your home. 

Check with an expert

Some types of AT should be checked for safety and may need to be repaired. It's a good idea to talk to a supplier before buying second-hand items privately. 

If you're not sure if second-hand AT will work for you, ask an allied health professional (such as an occupational therapist or physiotherapist) for help. They can make sure it's safe and right for your needs.  

Check the safety and standards

Make sure the second-hand AT meets safety standards.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) suggest checking the Product Safety Australia website for information on unsafe products and safety rules. 

Buying second-hand assistive products for someone else?

If you are buying second-hand AT for someone else, check they are comfortable with pre-owned items. Some people may have cultural sensitivities towards AT that was used by someone who has passed away.

Quick checklists of questions to ask before you buy

Here are 2 checklists of quick questions to ask before you decide on a new second-hand purchase:

10 questions about the current condition

1. Is the item strong and stable (especially where supporting body weight, pressure, or movement)?
2. Does the item come with clear instructions on how to put it together and how to use it?  
3. Do all parts work the way they should (including brakes, buttons, clips, gears, adjustments)?
4. Does the item include safety instructions?  
5. How long does the manufacturer say the item should last? 
6. Does the item have rips, rust, sharp edges or sharp points? 
7. Is the item missing any important parts? 
8. Has the item been in an accident or been damaged before? 
9. Are there any hygiene concerns when buying this second-hand item (for example, a urinal or mattress)? 
10. Does the item have an Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) number? Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) is Australia's authority that checks and regulates therapeutic goods. Visit: www.tga.gov.au.  

5 questions about repairs or maintenance 

1. Is the item still under warranty? 
2. Has the manufacturer or supplier banned the item for safety reasons? 
3. Has the item been repaired or had parts replaced? Who did the repairs and are they the right parts? 
4. Can the original supplier repair the item if needed? 
5. Have you checked whether there are any required safety standards or bans that apply to this second-hand item? 

Buying second-hand assistive products online

Check that all details about the AT are clear and easy to read, and that delivery options and costs are clear. Make sure you can contact the seller if something goes wrong. This is especially important when buying from auction sites or second-hand sites. 

Safety standards apply to many products sold in Australia. If you buy from an overseas website, there is a risk that the product does not meet Australian standards. Look for statements that the item is certified to the relevant Australian standard. 

Places to buy second-hand assistive technology online

The following websites provide information on buying and selling second hand AT Australia wide: 

• NED provides a list of suppliers who buy or sell used assistive technologies and equipment by state
• Ability Classifieds 
• eBility 
• eBay  
• Gumtree   
• Trading Post  
• Access Tech 

Other options for buying, selling, or swapping second-hand AT include:

• Various local Facebook groups
• Local and national newspaper

Hiring assistive technology

Instead of buying second‑hand assistive technology, you can choose to hire the AT you need. Hiring is a good choice for short‑term needs or when you may be waiting for funding to be approved. It can also be helpful if your needs are changing, such as before or after surgery. Hiring may be the best option when you are not sure how long the equipment will be needed.  

Many suppliers offer hire options. Your allied health professional can help you arrange a hire or trial before you use your funding to buy the AT you need. 

Consult an allied health professional before considering whether you need to hire AT. 

Need advice?

An occupational therapist can help match the right tools to your needs and support you in using them effectively.  

Find an OT near you through Occupational Therapy Australia (OTA).  

Can’t find an OT in your area through OTA? You can also check Healthdirect’s tool for finding an OT by location.  

If you need more information about healthy ageing, take the LiveUp quiz or get in touch with one of our helpful team on 1800 951 971.  

References

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. (n.d.). Product safety. https://www.productsafety.gov.au/

Therapeutic Goods Administration. (n.d.). Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). https://www.tga.gov.au/resources/artg

How to use this information

LiveUp provides free information to help you make informed decisions about your health. This information is for general and educational purposes only, is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide, and does not replace medical advice. Everyone is different, so some of these tips may work better for you than others. You should use your own judgment and seek medical advice when applying this information to yourself, to determine if it is suitable in your circumstances. Your use of, or reliance on, this information is solely at your own risk. Independent Living Assessment Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage caused as a result of your use of, or reliance on, this information.

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