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ComTEC AAC and Assistive Technology Consultants

Specialist AAC and Assistive Technology consultation, mentoring and equipment trial support for individuals, families and clinicians.

The ComTEC team brings together experienced Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists with specialist expertise in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT).

We work collaboratively with individuals, families, support teams and primary therapists to identify technology solutions that enhance communication, participation, learning, independence and quality of life.

Choosing the right technology can be complex. Even experienced Speech Pathologists and Occupational Therapists can encounter situations involving specialised communication systems, access methods, mounting solutions or emerging technologies that require additional expertise.

ComTEC consultants provide specialist assessment, consultation, mentoring and technology trials to support primary therapists and the people they work with. Our role is to complement and strengthen existing therapy supports, not replace them.

Because we are independent consultants, we are not aligned with any specific manufacturer or supplier. This allows us to explore a broad range of mainstream and specialised technology options and recommend solutions based on each person's unique goals, abilities and environments.

Two occupational therapists work alongside a wheelchair user during an eye gaze communication assessment, demonstrating a tablet-based AAC system mounted for accessible communication.

The relationship between ComTEC and KimTech

ComTEC and KimTech work together to provide a streamlined pathway from specialist consultation through to equipment trial.

The ComTEC team provides independent specialist consultation, assessment, mentoring and technology recommendations. KimTech provides access to a broad range of communication and assistive technology equipment for trial, allowing recommendations made during a ComTEC consultation to be explored in real-world environments before longer-term decisions are made.

While ComTEC consultants may recommend equipment that is available through KimTech's trial service, recommendations are never limited to any particular supplier, manufacturer or technology provider. Our recommendations are based on individual goals, needs and circumstances and may include mainstream, specialist and freely available solutions from a variety of sources.

This collaborative approach helps individuals, families and clinicians make informed decisions about technology supports and provides access to equipment trials that can assist with implementation, assessment and funding applications.

How we can help

ComTEC consultants can support individuals and their primary therapists in a wide range of areas.

A person explores a range of AAC and communication devices displayed on a table, including iPads with communication apps, dedicated speech-generating devices, and tablet-based AAC systems used for assistive communication assessment and trials.
A selection of assistive technology equipment displayed on a table, including speech-generating devices, AAC software, switches, symbol communication boards, and access tools used to support communication and participation.
    • Explore communication apps, speech-generating devices and non-electronic AAC systems
    • Compare and trial different AAC options
    • Support complex AAC assessment and feature matching
    • Assist with AAC implementation and troubleshooting
    • Develop recommendations and reports for funding applications
    • Explore alternative ways to access computers, tablets and communication devices
    • Trial switches, eye gaze systems, head tracking, mouse alternatives and other access methods
    • Identify strategies to improve access for people with physical, sensory or cognitive disabilities
    • Support setup and optimisation of technology
    • Explore literacy supports and alternative pencil options
    • Identify technologies that support participation at school, work and in the community
    • Recommend environmental control and task management solutions
    • Support access to recreation, gaming and creative activities
    • Assess mounting and positioning requirements for communication devices and access equipment
    • Trial and recommend mounting systems for wheelchairs, desks, beds and other environments
    • Provide coaching and mentoring for Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists and support teams
    • Deliver training for families, schools, workplaces and support staff
    • Support implementation of technology recommendations in everyday environments

  • ComTEC consultations are designed to complement the work of a person's existing Speech Pathologist or Occupational Therapist.

    During consultations, ComTEC specialists work alongside the primary therapist to explore technology options, solve complex access challenges, review communication systems and build confidence in implementing AAC and Assistive Technology solutions.

    Where equipment trials are recommended, clinicians and families can access a range of communication and assistive technology devices through KimTech's equipment hire service. This allows recommendations to be trialled in everyday environments before funding applications or purchasing decisions are made.

Our collaborative process

1. ComTEC Consultation

Meet with a specialist AAC and Assistive Technology consultant alongside your primary Speech Pathologist or Occupational Therapist.

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2. Technology Recommendations

Receive tailored recommendations based on your goals, abilities, environments and support needs.

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3. Equipment Trial

Trial recommended communication and assistive technology equipment through a range of specialist suppliers including:

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4. Review Outcomes

Evaluate what worked well, identify any adjustments required and determine the most appropriate long-term solution.

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5. Funding Application or Purchase Decision

Use the outcomes of the consultation and trial to support funding applications or make informed purchasing decisions.

Consultations can be provided:

A speech pathologist demonstrates a GoTalk 20+ communication device to a child who is using a tablet-based AAC system, supporting communication through symbol-based vocabulary and assistive technology.
Occupational therapist setting up a Tobii Dynavox eye gaze communication device during an AAC and assistive technology assessment, demonstrating alternative access methods for people with complex communication needs.

Professional development and clinical mentoring

In addition to individual consultations, the ComTEC team offers:

Whether you are new to AAC and Assistive Technology or looking for support with a complex case, the ComTEC team can help you navigate technology options with confidence.

Occupational therapist demonstrating an eye gaze communication device to allied health professionals during an AAC and assistive technology training session, highlighting alternative access methods for people with complex communication needs.

Referral Information

Referrals can be made by Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, individuals and family members.

Ready to explore AAC or Assistive Technology options with specialist support? Contact the ComTEC team to discuss your needs or submit a referral.

Request a ComTEC Consultation
Contact the ComTEC Team
Speech pathologist displaying AAC communication devices and assistive technology equipment used for communication assessment and support.