Ramps
Choosing the Right Ramps
Access ramps bridge the gap between ground level and entrances, providing safe, independent mobility for wheelchairs, scooters and walking aids. They are designed to fit a range of step heights and indoor or outdoor thresholds, offering both portable and semi-permanent solutions. By selecting the right ramp, users can navigate homes, vehicles and public spaces with confidence and ease.
Types of Ramps
Ideal for families and carers who need a lightweight, easy-to-store solution that can be moved between rooms or taken on trips. These ramps fold into compact dimensions, making them simple to keep in a garage, car trunk or wheelchair storage compartment.
Designed for single-step thresholds and doorways, these rubber-topped ramps provide a low-profile bridge that protects flooring while offering excellent slip resistance. Perfect for navigating small height differences without a full-length ramp.
A streamlined version of portable ramps that unfolds in one motion, offering quick setup for everyday use. They balance sturdiness with convenience, suitable for frequent access to a specific doorway or vehicle entry.
Built to support up to 300 kg, these ramps cater to heavier wheelchairs, powered scooters and users requiring extra stability. Their robust construction often includes reinforced aluminium frames and higher-traction surfaces.
Longer ramps that can be left in place for extended periods, typically covering larger height changes. They combine the durability of aluminium with the flexibility of modular sections, allowing custom lengths while remaining removable if needed.
Key Features to Consider Before Buying
Ramps are rated from 120 kg to 300 kg safe working load, ensuring they can safely support most manual wheelchairs, powered scooters and even heavy-duty mobility aids. Selecting a ramp with an appropriate capacity prevents stress on the frame and provides peace of mind for carers and therapists.
Folding models collapse to dimensions as small as 120 mm thick, allowing storage under a bed, in a cupboard or inside a vehicle. This reduces clutter and makes it easy to bring the ramp wherever access is required.
Rubber-coated or textured aluminium surfaces deliver reliable traction on dry and wet floors. The grip pattern channels water away, reducing slip risk for users and caregivers during rainy weather or in kitchens.
Most ramps weigh between 8 kg and 16.8 kg, light enough for one person to lift and carry. This portability enables users to move the ramp between rooms, place it in a car boot, or take it on travel without specialised equipment.
Longer ramps provide a gentler slope, which eases propulsion effort and reduces fatigue. When space is limited, a shorter ramp may be necessary, but a steeper gradient requires more strength and may affect safety, especially on smooth surfaces.
Ramps range from 800 mm to 1200 mm wide, accommodating various wheelchair or scooter wheelbases while still fitting through standard doorways. The appropriate width ensures stable side-to-side clearance during use.
Funding & Costs
Products in this category are commonly funded through the pathways below — always confirm eligibility and the current code with your plan manager, OT, or our team.
National Disability Insurance Scheme
- Core or Capital Supports — Standard — Level 2 : Portable ramps — basic clinical recommendation. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
- Capital Supports — Specialised — Level 3 : Larger/custom ramp solutions — AT Specialist assessment recommended. (prescription required — AT Specialist / Assessor)
Australian Government Support at Home Program
- AT-HM High Tier : Major home modifications — OT must prescribe all home modifications under AT-HM. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT))
Statewide Equipment Program (Victoria)
- Aids & Equipment Program : Home Modifications is a named SWEP program covering structural access changes. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), Physiotherapist, Speech Pathologist)
Department of Veterans' Affairs
- Gold Card — Full Coverage : Home modifications including ramps are explicitly covered for Gold Card holders. (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
- White Card — Accepted Condition Only (prescription required — Occupational Therapist (OT), General Practitioner / Medical Specialist)
Frequently Asked Questions
Measure the vertical height of the step, then apply a 1:12 gradient for manual wheelchairs (one centimetre of ramp length for each centimetre of rise) or a 1:8 gradient for powered scooters. For example, a 150 mm step would need a 1.8 m ramp for a manual wheelchair and a 1.2 m ramp for a scooter. This slope provides a smooth, safe transition without excessive effort.
Portable ramps are best when you need flexibility-moving between rooms, using different vehicles, or renting a property. Permanent ramps suit long-term residence changes, such as a dedicated entryway or a fixed outdoor threshold, where space allows a longer, more stable ramp that can stay in place for years.
Yes. Ramps with rubber-coated or textured aluminium surfaces are engineered to shed water and maintain grip even when wet. The raised tread pattern prevents slipping, and regular cleaning removes any mould or debris that could reduce traction.
Powered scooters typically weigh more and exert higher forces, so a ramp rated for at least 200 kg is advisable. Manual wheelchairs often fall under 150 kg, allowing use of lighter ramps rated to 120 kg. Always check the manufacturer's maximum load for both the mobility device and the ramp itself.
Most residential permanent ramps that are free-standing and do not alter structural elements do not require council approval. However, if a ramp is attached to a building, changes the existing footpath or encroaches on public land, you should confirm local regulations. Consulting a qualified installer can clarify any required permits.