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VMSS Frequently Asked Questions

What is the SWEP Vehicle Modification Subsidy Scheme (VMSS)?

The Vehicle Modification Subsidy Scheme (VMSS) is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services. This program provides people with a long term or permanent disability, as well as those who are frail aged with funding towards the cost of vehicle modifications.

 

What types of Assistive Technology (AT) iems does the VMSS program help to fund?

  • Air conditioning for people with thermo-regulatory conditions
  • Conversions of vehicles for wheelchair access
  • Modified driving controls
  • Oxygen cylinder restraint system
  • Ramps permanently secured to vehicles
  • Specialised lifters, carriers and trailers for wheelchairs
  • Specialised seating
  • Wheelchair restraint systems


What will it cost?

There is a maximum subsidy level for vehicle modifications over a seven year period. If the subsidy does not cover the full cost of the modification, you or a third party will need to pay the remainder.
 

Am I eligible?

You are eligible for funding if you:
  • Are a permanent Victorian Resident or hold a temporary or permanent protection Visa or are an asylum seeker
  • Have a long term disability and/or are frail aged
  • Do not receive other government funding
  • Are not an in-patient of a public or private hospital or residential care facility
  • Cannot claim equipment through private health insurance policy
  • Have not been released from hospital or an extended care centre within 30 days, where equipment required is related to the hospital admission
Please see the A&E Guidelines on the SWEP website: http://swep.bhs.org.au/ or call SWEP on 1300 PH SWEP (1300 747 937) or (03) 5333 8100 for further information on eligibility.
 

How do I apply for the program?

You will need to be assessed by a SWEP registered AT Practitioner (Occupational Therapist). If your assessment is for driving modifications, your AT Practitioner will also need to be a VicRoads Accredited OT Driver Assessor. Your AT Practitioner will complete an application form based on your needs.

Where can I access an Occupational Therapist?

Please talk to your local health care professional about finding a SWEP registered AT Practitioner near you. Information about Vic Roads Accredited OT Driver Assessors can be found on the Vicroads Website: https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/licences/medical-conditions-and-driving/medical-review/occupational-therapy-driving-assessment
 

What happens after my application is submitted?

SWEP will receive your application and an administration officer will process and triage your application.

 

Once your application is processed, a letter will be sent to you informing you of the status of your application. If you do not receive a letter within two weeks, please contact your prescriber or SWEP's Customer Service line on 1300 PH SWEP (1300 747 937).


Depending on the modification, further documents may be needed to complete the application process. These will be sent to either you or your AT Practitioner. Please ask your AT Practitioner or call SWEP to clarify any questions you may have about these documents.


If the subsidy does not cover the full cost of the equipment, a gap funding form may be sent to you to complete. This form will inform SWEP as to how the remainder of the cost is to be paid.

 
When funding is available, SWEP will call you to ascertain an ongoing need for the modification and then place an order.
 

What are my responsibilities towards the modification?

By accepting funding towards the vehicle modification from SWEP, the vehicle owner assumes ownership and is responsible for ongoing repairs, maintenance, and insurance.

How can I provide feedback?

Feedback can be provided in the following ways:

  • Fill in a feedback form available on our Contact page.
  • Call our Customer Service line on: 1300 PH SWEP (1300 747 937) or (03) 5333 8100. If you require an interpreter, or have a hearing or speech impediment, we can assist by accessing the Victorian Telephone Interpreting & Translating Service or National Relay Service.
  • Write to us at: P.O. Box 1993, Bakery Hill, Vic 3354
  • Email us at swep@gh.org.au
  • Send a fax to 03 5333 8111

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