Deadline: 09-Apr-2026
The Equipment and Activity Grant provides funding up to $5,750 (including GST) to support children and young people aged 21 or under with physical disabilities in the upper half of New Zealand’s North Island. The grant enables access to equipment, services, or experiences that improve daily life and participation, prioritizing applicants with demonstrated financial need.
Programme Overview
The Equipment and Activity Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for children and young people living with physical disabilities. By providing financial support for necessary equipment, services, or meaningful experiences, the programme ensures practical assistance that promotes independence, participation, and wellbeing.
Key Objectives
- Support children and young people aged 21 or under
- Address physical disabilities primarily affecting body or limb function
- Consider additional sensory or intellectual disabilities only when secondary
- Ensure applicants reside in the upper half of the North Island
- Confirm that all other funding options have been explored
- Demonstrate financial need via a valid Community Services Card
Funding Details
- Maximum Grant Amount: $5,750 including GST per eligible child or young person
- Purpose: Practical equipment, services, or experiences that enhance daily life and participation
- Prospective Needs Only: Applications must be submitted before any purchase or service is paid for
- Exclusions: Intensive therapies or treatments conducted overseas are not eligible
Eligibility
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 21 years or under
- Disability: Physical disability that significantly affects functional abilities, including movement or limb use
- Additional Conditions: Sensory or intellectual disabilities may exist but cannot be the primary reason for funding
- Geography: Reside in the upper half of the North Island
- Financial Need: Parent, caregiver, or applicant must hold a valid Community Services Card
- Alternative Funding: Applicants must have explored other funding options and confirm support cannot be obtained elsewhere
Disability Definition
Disabilities must be described in terms of:
- Impairments – body or limb function limitations
- Activity Limitations – restrictions in performing everyday tasks
- Participation Restrictions – barriers to engaging in community or social activities
- Aligned with internationally recognized disability frameworks
Why It Matters
- Provides practical support for children and young people with physical disabilities
- Enhances daily living, independence, and participation
- Prioritizes families with financial need to ensure equitable access
- Complements other funding sources without duplicating support
How to Apply
- Confirm that the applicant meets age, disability, and geographical criteria
- Verify financial need through a valid Community Services Card
- Identify equipment, service, or activity needs that are prospective
- Confirm that other funding avenues have been explored and cannot cover the expense
- Submit the completed application through the official Trust application portal
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for retrospective funding for items or services already purchased
- Requesting funding for primary sensory, intellectual, or overseas intensive therapy needs
- Failing to demonstrate financial need through a Community Services Card
- Ignoring the geographical eligibility requirement
- Overlooking the requirement to explore other funding sources first
FAQ
1. Who is eligible for the grant?
Children and young people aged 21 or under with physical disabilities that primarily affect body or limb function, residing in the upper half of the North Island.
2. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to $5,750 including GST per eligible child or young person.
3. Can I apply for funding for past purchases?
No, the grant covers only prospective needs.
4. Are sensory or intellectual disabilities eligible?
They are considered only if secondary to the primary physical disability.
5. How is financial need assessed?
Applicants must hold a valid Community Services Card.
6. Does the grant cover overseas therapy or intensive treatments?
No, the grant focuses on practical, local support that enhances daily life.
7. Must I explore other funding options first?
Yes, applicants must confirm that alternative funding sources have been explored and cannot meet the need.
Conclusion
The Equipment and Activity Grant ensures that children and young people with physical disabilities in the upper North Island receive practical, life-enhancing support. By prioritizing prospective needs and families with financial challenges, the grant promotes independence, participation, and overall wellbeing, helping young people achieve their full potential.
For more information, visit The Wilson Home Trust.
