When your child struggles to communicate their needs, feelings, or ideas, it can feel heartbreaking. Perhaps they’re pointing and gesturing, trying desperately to be understood. Maybe they have a few words, but not enough to fully express themselves. Or perhaps a stroke, brain injury, or progressive condition has taken away someone’s ability to speak.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Thousands of Australian families face communication challenges, and there’s powerful technology available that can help: Augmentative and Alternative Communication, or AAC.
At RT Speech and Hearing, we specialise in AAC assessment and implementation because we believe that everyone deserves a voice. Whether you’re a Perth parent wondering if AAC might help your child, or an adult seeking communication support, this guide will help you understand what AAC is, what technology is available in 2025, and how to access it through the NDIS.
What is AAC? Understanding Communication Devices
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It refers to any method of communication beyond spoken words that helps people express themselves.
Think about how we all use AAC every day without realising it: waving hello, giving a thumbs up, texting a friend, or pointing at a menu item. These are all forms of communication that don’t involve speech. For individuals with complex communication needs, AAC simply takes this further with dedicated systems and technology.
AAC comes in two main categories:
Unaided AAC doesn’t require any equipment. This includes sign language like Makaton, gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
Aided AAC uses external tools to support communication. This ranges from low-tech options like picture boards and communication books, all the way to high-tech speech-generating devices and apps.
Who Benefits from AAC?
AAC isn’t just for one type of person or condition. At RT Speech and Hearing, we support individuals across the lifespan who benefit from AAC, including:
- Children with autism spectrum disorder who are non-speaking or have limited verbal language
- Children and adults with cerebral palsy affecting speech production
- Individuals with Down syndrome or other intellectual disabilities
- People with acquired brain injuries or stroke affecting language
- Adults with motor neurone disease (MND), Parkinson’s disease, or other progressive conditions
- Anyone with apraxia of speech, severe stuttering, or other speech disorders
- Temporary communication support during recovery from surgery or medical procedures
The key thing to understand is this: AAC is not just for people who can’t speak at all. Many people who have some verbal speech benefit enormously from AAC to supplement their communication, reduce frustration, and expand what they can express.
Breaking Down the Biggest AAC Myth
Before we dive into the technology, let’s address the concern we hear most often from worried parents and families:
“If we give them an AAC device, will they stop trying to talk?”
The answer, backed by decades of research, is a resounding no.
Study after study shows that AAC does not prevent speech development. In fact, research consistently demonstrates that AAC often increases verbal speech production. Here’s why:
- AAC reduces frustration: When communication works, children are motivated to communicate more, including using their voice
- AAC provides language models: Speech-generating devices speak words clearly, giving users an auditory model to learn from
- AAC takes the pressure off: Without the stress of “you must talk,” many AAC users naturally begin using more speech over time
- AAC builds language understanding: Using symbols and words on devices strengthens vocabulary and sentence structure
At RT Speech and Hearing, we’ve seen countless children who started with AAC and gradually developed more verbal speech than anyone expected. We’ve also worked with individuals who use AAC alongside their speech for the rest of their lives—and that’s perfectly okay too. Communication is the goal, not necessarily speech.
AAC should never be seen as a “last resort” after waiting years to see if speech develops. Current best practice is to introduce AAC early, giving children multiple ways to communicate while their language is developing.
The Exciting World of AAC Technology in 2025
AAC technology has come a long way in recent years, and 2025 offers more options than ever before. Here’s what’s available:
Low-Tech AAC Devices
These are simple, reliable, and don’t require charging or technical knowledge:
Single-Message Devices: Press a button and it plays one recorded message. Perfect for specific situations like “I need help” or “I want a turn.” Devices like the BIGmack or GoTalk Button are popular choices.
Multi-Message Devices: Devices like the GoTalk 4+, 9+, and 20+ allow you to record multiple messages across different pages. You can create custom overlays with photos or symbols for different activities—one page for snack time, another for play time, and so on.
Communication Books: Portable books with photos, symbols, or words that users can point to. These are completely customisable and work anywhere, anytime.
These low-tech options are excellent for:
- Young children just beginning to use AAC
- Backup communication when high-tech devices are charging or unavailable
- Individuals who prefer tangible, physical optionsSpecific situations like requesting bathroom breaks at school
High-Tech AAC Devices and Apps
High-tech AAC refers to speech-generating devices—technology that produces a spoken voice when you select words, symbols, or type messages.
Dedicated AAC Devices: These are purpose-built communication devices from manufacturers like:
Tobii Dynavox (I-Series, Indi): Includes touch and eye-gaze access, with speaker displays for conversation partners
Liberator (Accent, Snap Core First): Rugged devices compatible with Minspeak language systems
Smartbox/Jabbla (Grid Pad): Windows-based with Grid 3 software, offering enormous customisation
Dedicated devices are specifically designed for AAC use—they’re rugged, have long battery life, and can’t accidentally get “lost” in games or YouTube like tablets can.
Tablets with AAC Apps: iPads and Android tablets loaded with AAC apps are increasingly popular because they’re:
- More affordable (though NDIS funding can be complex—more on that below)
- Familiar to families and communities
- Versatile for other learning activitiesLess stigmatising for some users
Popular AAC apps available in Australia include:
Proloquo2Go: Comprehensive symbol-based AAC with powerful customisation
TD Snap/Snap Core First: Text and symbol options with Tobii Dynavox’s research-backed vocabulary
LAMP Words for Life: Uses motor planning and consistent layouts
Predictable: Text-based AAC with word prediction, ideal for literate users
Cutting-Edge Technology in 2025
AAC technology continues to advance, with innovations including:
Eye-Tracking Technology: For individuals with limited physical movement (like those with MND or severe cerebral palsy), eye-gaze systems allow communication using only eye movements. This technology has become more accurate, faster, and more affordable.
AI and Predictive Text: Modern AAC devices use artificial intelligence to learn your communication patterns and suggest relevant words or phrases based on context, time of day, and conversation partner.
Voice Banking: For individuals with progressive conditions, voice banking allows you to record your own voice while you still can. This recording is then used to create a personalised synthetic voice for your AAC device, helping you maintain your identity.
Wearable AAC: Smaller, watch-sized devices like the GoTalk Fit allow users to communicate discreetly in social situations without carrying large equipment.
Multimodal Access: Devices now support multiple access methods—touch, switches, head tracking, scanning—all in one device, adapting as needs change.
How Do You Choose the Right AAC System?
This is where working with an experienced speech pathologist becomes crucial. At RT Speech and Hearing, our AAC assessment process is comprehensive and personalised:
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- Understanding Communication Needs
We start by understanding the individual—their current communication methods, their environments (home, school, work, community), their interests, and their goals. What do they need to communicate about? Who are their communication partners?
- Assessing Skills and Abilities
We look at:
Motor skills (What can they physically access? Touch? Eye gaze? Switches?)
Vision and hearing
Cognitive and language understanding
Literacy skills
Current symbolic understanding (Do they recognise photos? Line drawings? Abstract symbols?)
- Trialling Options
Here’s something important: We don’t guess which AAC system is best—we trial them.
Reputable AAC suppliers in Australia (like Liberator, Zyteq, Spectronics) provide trial devices free of charge. This lets the individual actually use different systems for several weeks to see what works best in real life.
During trials, we:Program the device with personalised vocabulary
Train the individual, family, and support team
Test the AAC across different environments
Gather feedback from everyone involved
- Securing Funding
Once we’ve identified the best AAC solution, we support you through the NDIS funding process with detailed reports and justification.
- Ongoing Support and Training
Getting the device is just the beginning. We provide ongoing therapy to:
Teach the individual to use their AAC effectively
Train family, educators, and support workers to model AAC use
Expand vocabulary as needs grow
Update the system as skills develop
Navigating NDIS Funding for AAC in Perth
The NDIS recognises that communication is fundamental and provides funding for AAC devices and services. However, the process can feel overwhelming. Here’s what you need to know:
AAC Funding Categories
AAC equipment and support falls under different NDIS categories:
Capacity Building (CB): This funds your speech pathology assessments, therapy sessions, and training. Your speech pathologist’s time for AAC assessment, programming, and training comes from this budget.
Capital – Assistive Technology: This is where AAC devices themselves are funded. It’s part of your Capital Supports budget.
The Funding Process
- Assessment A qualified speech pathologist (that’s us!) conducts a comprehensive AAC assessment and documents your communication needs, goals, and device recommendations.
- Include in Your NDIS Plan The recommended AAC device must be included in your NDIS plan. If you’re doing a new plan or plan review, bring your speech pathologist’s report to your planning meeting.
- Device Trials Trial the recommended devices (speech pathologists facilitate this with suppliers). Document what works and what doesn’t.
- Quote and Approval Your speech pathologist prepares a detailed report with comparative quotes from approved suppliers. For high-cost items (over $15,000), the NDIA reviews and approves before purchase.
- Purchase Once approved, purchase the device through your plan. Your plan manager can help process payment.
What About iPads for AAC?
This is a common question, and the answer has changed recently. As of 2025, iPads are not automatically funded by the NDIS because they’re considered mainstream technology that anyone might use. However, iPads with AAC apps may be funded through the “Replacement Supports” process if:
- They’re being used as a dedicated communication device
- A speech pathologist has assessed and recommended this as the most appropriate option
- You can demonstrate it’s cost-effective compared to dedicated AAC devices
- You have existing funding in your Consumables or Assistive Technology budget that can be reallocated
The Replacement Supports process requires additional justification, so it’s essential to work with your speech pathologist to prepare a strong application.
To give you an idea of AAC equipment costs:
- Low-tech devices: $70 – $670
- AAC apps (software only): $100 – $400 per app
- iPad + protective case + AAC app: $800 – $1,500
- Mid-range dedicated AAC devices: $4,000 – $8,000
- Premium dedicated AAC devices (with eye gaze, etc.): $10,000 – $20,000+
Tips for NDIS Success
Based on our experience helping Perth families secure AAC funding:
- Start early: Begin the conversation about AAC at your planning meeting, even if you’re still in the assessment phase
- Document everything: Keep records of communication challenges, therapy progress, and trial outcomes
- Be specific: Generic requests for “communication device” are less successful than specific recommendations with detailed justification
- Think long-term: AAC devices should last several years, so justify the investment
- Request training funds: Make sure your plan includes therapy hours for AAC training and support, not just the device itself
- Include maintenance: Request funding for device repairs, software updates, and accessories
Making AAC Work: It Takes a Village
Getting an AAC device is exciting, but here’s the reality: the technology is only as good as how consistently it’s used.
The most common reason AAC “fails” isn’t because of the device—it’s because the people around the AAC user didn’t know how to support it.
Modelling is Key
Imagine trying to learn French if everyone around you spoke English all the time. That’s what it’s like for AAC users when everyone around them uses speech but they’re the only one touching the AAC device.
AAC modelling means that you—the parent, teacher, support worker, or therapist—use the AAC device yourself while you talk. You’re showing the user how communication works on the device. For example, when offering snack: “Do you want APPLE [touch the apple symbol] or BANANA [touch the banana symbol]?”
At RT Speech and Hearing, we train all communication partners in AAC modelling because this is the single most important factor in AAC success.
AAC Across Environments
AAC needs to be available everywhere the person communicates:
- At home during family time
- At school during lessons and play
- In the community at shops, appointments, and social activities
- During therapy sessions
This might mean having backup devices, robust carrying cases, or different AAC systems for different situations. We help you develop a communication plan that works across all environments.
Multimodal Communication is Normal
Here’s something important: people who use AAC often use multiple ways to communicate, and that’s great! They might:
- Use their AAC device for longer messages
- Use speech for quick, familiar words
- Use gestures or signs in certain situations
- Point to objects when relevant
This multimodal approach is exactly what we want.
We’re not trying to force everyone to communicate the same way—we’re giving people as many communication tools as possible.
Common AAC Questions Perth Families Ask Us
“Isn’t my child too young for AAC?”
No. Research shows there’s no such thing as “too young” for AAC. We introduce communication tools as early as possible to support language development from the start.
“Should we wait and see if speech develops first?”
No. The wait-and-see approach can mean months or years of communication frustration. AAC supports speech development—it doesn’t prevent it—so there’s no reason to delay.
“What if they prefer one mode of communication over another?”
People naturally use the quickest, easiest communication method available to them in each situation. That’s fine! We respect all modes of communication.
“Can my child use AAC if they don’t understand cause-and-effect yet?”
Yes! AAC can actually teach cause-and-effect. Pressing a button and hearing a voice helps children learn that their actions create results.
“What if the technology is too complicated for us?”
We provide extensive training for families. Modern AAC is designed to be user-friendly. If something feels too complicated during trials, we find something that works better for your family.
“Will people stare at my child using a device in public?”
Some might look because it’s different, but most people are supportive when they understand it’s a communication tool. More importantly, your child’s right to communicate is more important than others’ curiosity.
Why Choose RT Speech and Hearing for AAC Support in Perth
As a specialist speech pathology and audiology clinic, we bring:
Dual Expertise: Our unique combination of speech pathology and audiology means we understand both communication and hearing needs. For many AAC users, hearing health directly impacts AAC success.
NDIS Experience: We’re registered NDIS providers who understand the funding system inside and out. We’ve successfully secured AAC funding for dozens of clients.
Evidence-Based Practice: We stay current with the latest AAC research and technology, attending regular training to ensure Perth families get access to the best options.
Comprehensive Assessment: We don’t rush to recommend technology. Our thorough assessment process ensures you get the right solution the first time.
Ongoing Support: We don’t hand over a device and wish you luck. We provide continued therapy, training, troubleshooting, and device updates as needs change.
Client-First Approach: Your communication goals drive our recommendations—not what’s easiest for us or what supplier pays the best commission.
Community-Based Services: We can assess and provide AAC training in your home, school, or workplace—wherever you need to communicate.
Communication is not a luxury—it’s a basic human right. Everyone deserves to express their needs, share their thoughts, connect with others, and make their voice heard.
AAC technology in 2025 offers unprecedented opportunities for individuals with complex communication needs. Whether it’s a simple button device that says “I need help,” or a sophisticated eye-gaze system that allows someone to write poetry, AAC gives people a voice.
At RT Speech and Hearing, we’ve seen the transformative power of AAC countless times. The moment a child requests their favourite food for the first time. The relief on a parent’s face when they finally understand what their child is trying to tell them. The pride of an adult who reclaims their independence after a stroke.
If you’re in Perth and communication challenges are holding someone back, let’s talk. AAC might be the solution that changes everything.