Understanding Sensory Profile Assessments in NDIS Reports

What is a Sensory Profile Assessment?

A sensory profile assessment helps identify how an individual responds to sensory input in their environment — such as sounds, lights, touch, movement, or smell. These assessments are most commonly completed by occupational therapists and are often used for children, but they are just as important for teens and adults with sensory needs.

Sensory processing differences can impact:

Emotional regulation
Focus and attention
Sleep and eating
Tolerance to busy environments (e.g., school, shopping centres)
Participation in therapy, education, or community life

When is a Sensory Assessment Recommended for the NDIS?

The NDIS often requires evidence of sensory processing challenges when participants request:

Support for emotional regulation
Assistive technology (e.g., noise-cancelling headphones, compression garments)
Therapeutic supports (OT or psychology)
Changes to the school environment
Home or sensory room modifications

Sensory assessments are especially useful for people with:

Autism spectrum disorder
ADHD
Intellectual disability
Sensory processing disorder
Developmental delays

Common Tools Used in Sensory Profile Reports

Occupational therapists select standardised tools based on the person’s age and needs. The most common tools include:

Sensory Profile 2 (SP2) – widely used for children aged 0–14
Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) – for teens and adults
Sensory Processing Measure (SPM) – often used in schools, includes teacher and parent input

These tools use questionnaires to gather insights from caregivers, teachers, or the person themselves to identify sensory preferences and sensitivities.

How Sensory Assessments Inform NDIS Support Plans

Once completed, sensory profile results help therapists make evidence-based recommendations that directly link to NDIS funding requests. These recommendations might include:

Therapy goals to improve regulation, attention, or daily participation
Environmental changes, such as reducing noise or visual clutter
Assistive technology, including weighted blankets, fidget items, or sensory-friendly clothing
Parent or teacher coaching to support strategies across home and school

NDIS planners want to see how sensory processing difficulties affect functional capacity — not just that the person has sensory preferences.

Case Example

Let’s say a child has difficulty with noise and movement in the classroom, which affects their learning and behaviour. A sensory profile may show auditory defensiveness and poor vestibular processing. Based on the report, the therapist may recommend:

Ongoing OT for sensory regulation strategies
Noise-cancelling headphones
Access to a movement break space at school
Visual supports for transitions

All of this information provides a clear link between impairment, impact, and support need — essential for NDIS decision-making.

What to Expect in a Sensory Profile Report

A high-quality sensory report will typically include:

Background and developmental history
Functional impact of sensory processing issues
Results from standardised tools
Summary of sensory strengths and challenges
Recommendations for therapy, equipment, or environmental changes
Links to participant’s NDIS goals and plan outcomes

NDIS Guidelines and Sensory Needs

The NDIS recognises the importance of sensory supports as part of capacity building and core supports. Sensory assessments support access to:

Occupational therapy funding
Specialist equipment and consumables
Modifications to home or school environments

Final Thoughts

Sensory profile assessments are a powerful tool to help individuals better understand themselves — and to help NDIS decision-makers fund the supports that truly make a difference. Whether it’s calming an overwhelmed child or helping an adult feel more comfortable in everyday life, sensory strategies start with a great assessment.