Mark my words: How Tasmania’s equipment library transforms life for people living with MND 

For Tasmanians living with motor neurone disease (MND) staying safe, independent and connected to the community can depend on having the right equipment at the right time. But for many, accessing essential assistive technology can be painfully slow. This is why MND Tasmania’s equipment library has quickly become a vital lifeline. 

Chris Symonds knows firsthand how essential this service is. As President of MND Tasmania, Chris has been instrumental in the establishment of the state’s equipment library. “Equipment libraries are vital in precuring new or used assistive technology and then distributing these to people living with MND or Kennedy’s Disease,” Chris says. “For those over the age of 65 who are ineligible for NDIS funding, MND Tasmania provides this essential equipment at no cost.” 

The library provides a wide range of equipment, including lift chairs, adjustable beds, power wheelchairs, bathing supports and specialist communication or breathing devices. Everything that can help someone stay safe and independent for as long as possible. People are connected to the service through their MND Advisor, who works with them to identify what equipment they need and when they need it most. 

Demand is constant, and every situation is unique. “For those living with MND, the rate of progression and areas affected vary from person to person. This means individual equipment needs vary,” Chris explains. That’s why the library is shaped not only by clinical advice, but by the lived experiences of people with MND. Ensuring the support provided truly meets their changing needs. 

For families navigating a rapidly progressing disease, timely equipment can be life-changing. It helps people maintain mobility, continue daily routines, stay socially connected and live safely at home for as long as possible. But when access is slow, abilities can be lost before the needed equipment arrives. The equipment library exists to close this critical gap, restoring dignity, independence and a sense of control when it’s needed most. 

Its impact comes from speed. “The aim of our equipment library is to provide items quickly,” Chris says. “Other state-based or NDIS approvals can have slow responses to the need and often when the item arrives the person’s condition has progressed and is ready for the next item.” 

Chris has experienced this delay himself. Living with Kennedy’s Disease, an inherited disease affecting the neurones in the brain, he knows firsthand how importance timely access can be. Under the NDIS he waited six months and 11 days for his power wheelchair to arrive, even though the approval itself took only 15 days. In contrast, his cousin, over 65 and not on the NDIS, received a similar second-hand power chair through an equipment scheme in just two weeks. “It did the same job. Speed matters.” 

Operating the library in a small state brings challenges, particularly the high costs of maintaining specialised equipment. That’s where strong partnerships are essential. “MND Tasmania works closely with our partner, Country Care, to deliver the service. This partnership is essential to the delivery of the library,” Chris says. By combining Country Care’s logistical expertise with MND Tasmania’s community focus, the program has built a solid foundation. 

Community donations and support are also critical to the library’s growth. FightMND is investing in this initiative, helping MND Tasmania strengthen its equipment pool and accelerate access for those who need it most. 

Chris’s message to Australians is clear. “MND progresses quickly. Equipment libraries help people stay safe at home and active in their community not stuck in hospitals or aged care. Supporting these libraries is supporting dignity, independence and quality of life.” 

Thanks to Chris and his team this equipment library is making a meaningful difference for Tasmanians living with MND.  

Mark My Words: Your support powers projects supporting Australians living with MND 

MND Tasmania’s equipment library is a lifeline, providing critical equipment quickly so people affected by MND can maintain their independence and dignity. Your support helps FightMND fund essential projects like this, empowering families and improving care across Australia. 

Mark my words: together, we can make a difference. Every donation accelerates research, funds innovative care and empowers people living with MND. Join the fight today. Together we can create a future without MND.