Securing funding for a sensory room can feel overwhelming. With a variety of grants and deadlines to meet, it can be difficult to know where to start or how to make a strong application.
So we’ve put together a simple guide on how to secure sensory room funding, including practical tips and a free application template to get you started.
This guide is primarily suited to schools, early intervention centres, non-profit and community organisations, healthcare, and therapy centres seeking government or charitable funding for a sensory space. And while we focus on organisational funding here, we also offer basic guidance further down the page, for individuals applying to programs such as the NDIS, which can support sensory equipment or therapy needs as part of a personalised plan.
Most grants will support:
- Sensory equipment (bubble tubes, interactive panels. projectors, soft play etc.)
- Minor building works (such as painting, blinds, and acoustic panelling)
- Accessibility modifications
- Staff/ volunteer training
To make a strong application for sensory funding, we recommend you:
- Clearly describe your challenges (e.g. sensory overload/ anxiety/ lack of inclusive spaces)
- Connect your project to wellbeing, inclusion and policy outcomes (such as Disability Standards, Inclusive Education, and Mental Health).
- Provide evidence of need (in a school setting, this could include attendance records, suspensions, and parent/ teacher/ student feedback).
- Highlight who will benefit: it is for diverse learners, neurodivergent individuals, or broader community/ sector use.
- Show sustainability: including training, a maintenance plan, or how the space can be reconfigured as needs change.
To help you secure funding for a sensory room, Sensotec can assist with the following:
- A detailed quote and itemised list of equipment
- Floor plans and 3D render concepts of the desired space/ equipment
- Case studies or benefit statements to support your goals
- Support from initial design and discovery, through to installation, training and aftercare
Sensory Room Funding Programs & Resources
While there is no one funding source for sensory rooms or equipment, there are a variety of avenues that you can explore. Below is a list of funding options to guide your research:
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State and Territory Programs
Explore funding and support offered by state governments for education, disability, healthcare, aged care, mental health, and community infrastructure. Visit your local government websites to find current opportunities.
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Early Intervention Services
Access funding through early intervention programs for sensory, therapeutic, or developmental equipment for children and young people.
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Educational Supports
Check your local education department or school funding portals to see what grants are available for sensory tools, special education equipment, and inclusive learning resources.
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Community Grants
Check local councils, charitable foundations, and peak bodies for grants supporting community projects, health services, aged care initiatives, or mental health programs.
Tips for Accessing Funding
Start with official government portals (federal, state, local) to check eligibility and application windows.
- Also reach out to peak bodies, sector associations, or advocacy groups, as they often provide guidance or can point you to current grants.
- Keep an eye on recurring programs, as some grants open annually.
Note: Funding opportunities can change regularly, so it’s important to confirm eligibility, application deadlines, and requirements directly with the grant provider.
Download Your Free Sensory Room Funding Template
Use our grant application template to structure your submission, align with key outcomes, and confidently showcase your project’s benefits.
NDIS Funding for Sensory Equipment and Therapy: What You Need to Know
Need support for personal sensory needs? Individualised NDIS funding can help with sensory equipment, therapy, and environmental modifications. Here’s a practical guide to applying for funding approval.
- First, check your current supports/ NDIS plan and confirm that sensory equipment or sensory therapy is included.
- Next, identify your sensory goals, for example: participation, independence, or well-being.
- Collect supporting evidence, e.g. therapist recommendations, health reports, assessments highlighting sensory needs.
- Be specific: list out the desired items/ modifications.
- Explain how each item supports your goals, and clearly state the benefits.
- Align your requests with NDIS criteria and functional outcomes.
- Include the estimated costs and suppliers.
Reach out to your NDIS planner, Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Partner.
- Discuss your goals and how sensory supports can help.
- Keep a written copy of all documentation and everything discussed in your planning meeting.
- Submit your funding request.
- Arrange a follow-up with your planner/ LAC if required.
- Know your rights. If your request is declined or partly funded, you can ask for an internal review of the decision.
- Purchase the approved sensory equipment.
- Keep all reports, quotes and correspondence to make future reviews easier.
- Track your outcomes: notice how the equipment/ support makes a difference in daily life.
To help you access sensory supports, Sensotec can assist you with the following:
- A free consultation and guidance to maximise funding and meet your space, budget, and goals.
- A detailed quote and itemised list of equipment.
- Floor plans and 3D render concepts of the desired space/ equipment
- Portable sensory solutions for limited space or mobility concerns.
If you need assistance selecting the right sensory equipment or have questions about integrating these items into your NDIS plan, feel free to reach out.
Remember that funding is subject to approval, so confirm eligibility with the NDIS before applying.
Alternatively, you may be eligible for other funding options such as state programs, early intervention services, educational supports and community grants.
Sensory Rooms: Equipment, Videos & More Information
- Watch sensory spaces come to life with product videos and demonstrations.
- Read our sensory blog for tips, case studies, and insights.
- Explore our full range of sensory products, with equipment to suit every size and budget.
If you would like to discuss your options, reach out for a chat. We are also happy to offer special pricing for full room fit-outs.
*Please note that funding programs, criteria and availability are subject to change. This information is provided as a guide and does not guarantee approval of any funding applications. Sensotec is not responsible for the outcome of applications submitted. Please confirm eligibility and application requirements with the relevant funding bodies before applying. Likewise, individuals should confirm their plan and approved supports with the NDIS before applying.
