South Australia Wig Subsidy — Equipment Program Funding Explained

If you live in South Australia and have experienced permanent hair loss due to a major illness, the South Australian Government’s Equipment Program may be able to help fund a wig. Here’s a clear breakdown of how it works.

What Is the Equipment Program?

The Equipment Program is run by the South Australian Department of Human Services (DHS) and provides assistive technology, equipment, and wigs to eligible South Australians. It is designed to support people recovering from major illness or living with permanent disability-related needs.

Who Is Eligible for a Wig Through This Program?

To be eligible, you generally need to have permanent hair loss as a result of treatment for a major illness, such as alopecia or oncology treatment, confirmed by your GP. There are also specific timing rules: it must be at least 12 months since your wig was first issued by your acute care provider (such as a hospital), and you must not have received Equipment Program funding for a synthetic wig in the past 12 months, or a human hair wig in the past 5 years.

What Type of Wig Can Be Funded?

Eligible applicants can receive funding toward either a synthetic or human hair wig through an approved supplier. Synthetic wigs may be replaced no more than annually, while a human hair wig may be replaced no more than every 5 years, reflecting the longer lifespan of human hair.

How to Apply

1. See your GP or specialist. Your request must be assessed by a General Practitioner or suitably qualified specialist, such as a Dermatologist or Oncologist.

2. Wig Request Form completed. Your GP or specialist submits the DHS Equipment Program Wig Request Form on your behalf.

3. Get a quote from us. We can provide a formal quote and discuss which wig type may suit your needs and lifestyle.

4. Approval and ordering. Once approved, the Equipment Program will coordinate the order with your chosen approved supplier.

5. Fitting and follow-up. Approved suppliers, including us, are required to provide proper fitting and follow-up support, along with a minimum 12-month warranty.

Regional South Australia

If you live in regional South Australia, you can contact Country Health Connect on 1800 944 912 to discuss your wig request and the application process.

We’re Here to Help

Our team can provide your formal quote promptly and talk you through the options available, whether you’re considering a synthetic or human hair wig. For full eligibility criteria, visit the official SA Equipment Program website.

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