Platform Lifts Australia
Wheelchair & Accessibility Lifts
Purpose-built wheelchair accessible lifts for shorter vertical distances. Ideal for split-levels, entry access, commercial accessibility, and NDIS or DVA funded home modifications.
Pricing Disclaimer: Prices shown are indicative estimates only, based on publicly available industry data. Actual costs vary significantly based on your specific requirements, location, installation complexity, and chosen features. Always request direct quotes from providers for accurate pricing.
What Is a Platform Lift?
A platform lift (also called a wheelchair lift, vertical platform lift, or accessibility lift) is a vertical lifting device with an open or enclosed platform designed specifically for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. Unlike through-floor lifts that travel between storeys, platform lifts typically handle shorter vertical distances — from a few steps up to about 3 metres.
They are commonly used for overcoming level changes at front doors and porches, navigating split-level homes, bridging garage-to-house transitions, accessing raised decks and outdoor areas, and achieving commercial DDA compliance in shops and offices.
Platform lifts are typically driven by hydraulic or screw mechanisms. They can be open (no walls or roof), semi-enclosed, or fully enclosed, and many models are rated for outdoor installation. In Australia, platform lifts must comply with AS1735.14 and relevant sections of AS1428 for accessibility.
Key Features at a Glance
- Wheelchair accessible
Purpose-built for wheelchair users with compliant platform sizes
- NDIS and DVA eligible
Commonly funded through government disability and veteran schemes
- Low-rise travel
Designed for vertical travel up to approximately 3 metres
- Indoor and outdoor rated
Many models are weather-rated for outdoor installation
- Fast installation
Typically installed in 2-5 days depending on configuration
Types of Platform Lifts
Platform lifts come in several configurations depending on the travel distance, site conditions, and level of enclosure required.
Open Platform Lifts
An open platform with safety rails and toe guards but no walls or roof. The most affordable option and well suited for short-rise outdoor applications such as porch access or deck-level changes. Often the simplest to install.
- Most affordable platform lift option
- Ideal for outdoor short-rise access
- Simple installation — often 2-3 days
Indicative price: $20,000 - $35,000
Enclosed Platform Lifts
A fully or semi-enclosed cabin with walls, doors, and a roof. Provides weather protection for outdoor use and a more refined appearance for indoor installations. Required for higher travel distances and some commercial applications.
- Weather-protected for outdoor installations
- Handles higher travel distances (up to 3m)
- Higher cost and longer installation
Indicative price: $35,000 - $65,000+
Vertical Platform Lifts
The most common configuration. The platform travels straight up and down between two levels. Driven by hydraulic cylinders, screw mechanisms, or chain drives. Suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
- Straight vertical travel between levels
- Multiple drive systems available
- Residential and commercial use
Travel: up to approx. 3 metres
Inclined Platform Lifts
A platform that travels along a rail mounted to a staircase, similar to a stairlift but with a flat platform for wheelchair access. Used where vertical installation is not feasible or where a stairway already exists.
- Follows existing staircase path
- Wheelchair accessible platform
- Reduces usable stair width
Common in commercial and public buildings
Pros and Cons
An honest assessment of platform lifts to help you decide if they are the right choice for your accessibility needs.
Advantages
- Purpose-built for wheelchair access — compliant platform sizes and safety features
- NDIS and DVA funding — commonly funded through government schemes
- Indoor and outdoor use — many models are weather-rated for external installation
- No shaft required — open models need no shaft construction or major structural work
- Affordable for short-rise — open models from around $20,000 for basic access needs
- Commercial DDA compliance — meets requirements for shops, offices, and public buildings
- Fast installation — typically 2-5 days on-site
Considerations
- Limited travel distance — typically up to about 3 metres (1-2 floors maximum)
- Very slow travel speed — 0.05-0.1 m/s, noticeably slower than other lift types
- Open models look utilitarian — basic open platforms lack the refinement of enclosed lifts
- Safety guarding required — the shaft opening or travel area needs compliant guarding
- Not for full-storey travel — for multi-storey access, a home elevator or no-shaft lift is better suited
- Enclosed models are costly — fully enclosed platform lifts can exceed $65,000
Indicative Pricing
Indicative price estimates for platform lifts in Australia. Actual prices depend on many factors including model, configuration, enclosure type, and installation requirements.
Open Platform
$20,000 – $35,000
Short-rise, open design, basic safety rails, outdoor or indoor
Enclosed Platform
$35,000 – $55,000
Full enclosure, doors, weather-rated, higher travel distance
Premium Enclosed
$55,000+
Full customisation, glass panels, automatic doors, premium finishes
*Indicative estimates only. Prices typically include supply and standard installation. Additional costs may apply for structural work, electrical upgrades, safety guarding, and building approvals. Always request direct quotes for accurate pricing.
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Get Free QuotesWho Is a Platform Lift Best For?
Platform lifts are the ideal solution in several common accessibility scenarios.
Wheelchair Users
Platform lifts are purpose-built for wheelchair access. Compliant platform sizes (minimum 800mm x 1200mm to AS1735.14) and capacities of 250-350kg accommodate a wheelchair user and attendant comfortably.
NDIS and DVA Participants
Platform lifts are commonly funded through the NDIS as home modifications under Assistive Technology. DVA funding is also available for eligible veterans. Many providers are registered with both schemes and experienced with the approval process.
Commercial Accessibility
Shops, offices, churches, and public buildings that need to meet DDA (Disability Discrimination Act) requirements. A platform lift is often the most practical and cost-effective way to provide level access where ramps are not feasible.
Split-Level Homes
Homes with split-level floor plans where there are a few steps between living areas. A platform lift bridges these level changes without the cost or disruption of a full home elevator installation.
Entry and Porch Access
Overcoming steps at the front door, back door, or porch. An open platform lift can provide simple, affordable access where a ramp is too long or impractical for the available space.
Outdoor Level Changes
Decks, patios, and garden areas with level changes. Weather-rated outdoor platform lifts handle rain and sun exposure, providing accessibility to outdoor living spaces without extensive ramp construction.
Popular Platform Lift Brands in Australia
Several well-known brands offer platform lifts in the Australian market. Here is an overview of the key players.
Savaria
Canadian manufacturer and one of the largest accessibility lift companies globally. Savaria offers a range of vertical platform lifts including the Multilift and V-1504 models, suitable for both residential and commercial applications. Known for robust engineering and comprehensive safety features. Available through authorised Australian distributors.
Easy Living
Australian supplier specialising in accessibility solutions including platform lifts, stairlifts, and home modifications. Offers a range of open and enclosed platform lifts suited to NDIS and DVA funded projects. Strong presence in the disability and aged care sectors with NDIS-registered provider status.
Aussie Glide
Australian company offering platform lifts, stairlifts, and ceiling hoists. Provides vertical platform lifts for both residential and commercial settings, with a focus on affordability and practical accessibility solutions. Offers installation, service, and maintenance across multiple states.
Vestner
South Australian manufacturer producing the LR Series and Mobilus residential platform lifts. All products carry Australian Design Registration. Known for local manufacturing, quality engineering, and a national distributor network covering all states.
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Get Premium Quotes from Multiple ProvidersFrequently Asked Questions
Common questions about platform lifts in Australia.
What is a platform lift?
A platform lift is a vertical lifting device designed for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. It has an open or enclosed platform that travels vertically between two levels, typically covering distances of up to about 3 metres. They are commonly used for front door access, split-level homes, outdoor level changes, and commercial DDA compliance.
How much does a platform lift cost in Australia?
Platform lifts in Australia typically range from $20,000 to $65,000 or more. Open platform lifts start from around $20,000-$35,000, enclosed models sit in the $35,000-$55,000 range, and premium enclosed models with full customisation can exceed $55,000. These are indicative estimates only -- always request direct quotes for accurate pricing.
Can a platform lift be funded through the NDIS?
Yes -- platform lifts are commonly funded through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) as home modifications under the Assistive Technology category. You will need an occupational therapist assessment, quotes from NDIS-registered suppliers, and approval through your NDIS planner or support coordinator. DVA funding may also be available for eligible veterans.
Can a platform lift be installed outdoors?
Yes -- many platform lifts are specifically designed and rated for outdoor use. Open platform lifts are commonly installed outdoors for porch and deck access. Enclosed models with weather-rated finishes are also available for outdoor installation. Always confirm with the supplier that the model you select is rated for outdoor conditions in your climate.
How long does installation take?
On-site installation typically takes 2-5 days depending on the model and whether it is an open or enclosed configuration. Additional time may be needed for site preparation, safety guarding, and electrical work. From order to completion, the full process including manufacturing and delivery usually takes 8-16 weeks. Lead times vary by manufacturer and demand.
What Australian standards apply to platform lifts?
Platform lifts in Australia must comply with AS1735.14 (platform lifts for persons with disabilities) and relevant sections of AS1428 (design for access and mobility). Commercial installations must also meet the requirements of the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). Always ensure your provider supplies a compliant product with appropriate certification.
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