This study examines ongoing inequities in Assistive Technology (AT) access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Assistive technology is equipment or devices that help people with disability do things they can’t do because of their disability and may also help do something more easily or safely. 

Using First Nations and Western research approaches, the study analyses primary data on the cultural safety of AT information, products and services for older people. A secondary analysis identifies barriers and facilitators across people, products, personnel, provision and policy. The findings, validated by six participating communities, highlight limited existing research and outline actions needed to ensure AT programs in Australia are culturally respectful, safe and effective.

The paper identifies 9 principles for culturally safe AT delivery:

1. First Nations informed
2. trauma aware
3. strengths based
4. person/family centred
5. holistic goal oriented
6. learning focused
7. place-based
8. relevant
9. contribution-focused.