Where to Buy a Wheelchair in Australia (Complete Guide)

September 4, 2025

If you're wondering where to buy a wheelchair in Australia, you're not alone. With so many options—manual, electric, folding, lightweight—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Whether you’re buying for yourself, a loved one, or a client, making the wrong choice can lead to discomfort, wasted money, and daily frustration.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to choose the right wheelchair in Australia especially if it’s your first time.

1. Understand Your Needs First

The best wheelchair for someone else might be completely wrong for you. Start by asking a few simple questions:

Where will it be used most? Indoors, outdoors, or both?
Is this for full-time or temporary use? Recovery vs. long-term mobility
Will it need to be transported? Consider car boots, travel, or public transport
Who will push or operate it? A carer, or the user independently?

2. Manual vs Electric Wheelchairs

This is one of the first big decisions you'll make. Here’s a quick comparison:

Manual Wheelchairs

✅ Lightweight and portable
✅ No need to charge or service motors
✅ Great for short-term or carer-assisted use
⚠ Requires upper body strength if self-propelling

Electric Wheelchairs

✅ Great for long-term or independent users
✅ Handles outdoor terrain and longer trips better
⚠ Heavier, more expensive, and requires charging

3. Lightweight, Folding & Travel-Friendly Options

For many Australians, portability matters. A lightweight, foldable wheelchair is easier to:

✅ Lift into a car boot
✅ Take on taxis, buses, or planes
✅ Store in tight spaces

Look for models under 14kg, with easy-fold frames. Always check weight limits and wheel size to match your lifestyle.

4. Key Features to Consider Before You Buy

✅ Seat width: Too narrow causes pain, too wide is unsafe
✅ Brakes: Easy-to-use and reliable for user and carer
✅ Armrests and footrests: Removable for ease of use
✅ Cleaning: Breathable, wipeable material is a must
✅ Cushioning: For long-term comfort and pressure relief

5. Avoid These Common Mistakes

❌ Buying purely based on price
❌ Choosing a bulky model with no need for it
❌ Ignoring fit, weight limit, or the user’s physical needs
❌ Overlooking warranty or return policies

✅ Final Checklist Before You Order

✅ Know how and where it will be used
✅ Choose between manual or electric (based on mobility)
✅ Check if folding or transportable matters to you
✅ Review key features like brakes, frame, comfort
✅ Shop from a trusted Australian supplier

🛒 Where to Buy Trusted Wheelchairs Online

At Total Care Essentials, we stock wheelchairs that real families, carers, and aged care homes actually use. No confusing specs just safe, easy-to-use, and trusted mobility solutions.

View Manual Wheelchairs
View Electric Wheelchairs & Accessories