Platform Lift vs Stair Lift: Which Is Right for You?

Choose a platform lift if

• You or a family member uses a wheelchair and needs full, independent access between floors
• The access solution must also accommodate carers with equipment
• You are planning a long-term home modification that may qualify for NDIS or aged care funding
• The product must meet AS 1735.14 — which some funding programs require
• You want a solution that serves any future user of the home, including guests who use a wheelchair

For platform lift options and cost guidance, see our platform lifts overview and platform lift cost guide.

Choose a stair lift if

• The primary user is ambulatory or can transfer to a seated position unaided
• Budget is a priority — a stair lift costs significantly less than a platform lift
• You want minimal structural impact on the home
• The staircase is straight (curved staircase models are more expensive but available)
• The solution is medium-term — stair lifts can be removed or sold when no longer needed

Our recommendation

For wheelchair users or anyone planning a long-term home modification, a platform lift is the appropriate solution. It provides genuine access that is consistent regardless of the user's mobility, and it meets the compliance requirements that most NDIS and aged care funding programs reference.

For ambulatory users who need assistance on stairs and are not using a wheelchair, a stair lift is practical and significantly more cost-effective.

If you are unsure which category applies, consult an occupational therapist before purchasing. An OT assessment is required for most funded home modifications in any case — and the OT recommendation will carry weight with your plan manager or aged care provider. When you are ready to compare quotes, submit a brief through LiftQuotes.