Australia Electric Wheelchair Market Trends

Market Driver – Increasing Geriatric Population

The growing geriatric population is a major driver propelling the electric wheelchair market in Australia. According to Australian Bureau of Statistics, the proportion of people aged 65 years and over is projected to rise from 15% currently to between 20-23% of the total population by 2066. The unprecedented growth in the aging segment of the population will significantly contribute to the increase in demand for mobility assistance products like electric wheelchairs.

As people grow older, mobility issues arising due to illnesses, disabilities or general decline in motor function become increasingly common. Electric wheelchairs offer independent mobility to older adults which greatly enhances their quality of life. For instance, electric wheelchairs allow seniors to comfortably go grocery shopping, visit community centers for recreational activities or attend medical appointments whereas traditional manual wheelchairs require physical effort that may not be feasible for all elderly individuals. Additionally, advancements in lithium-ion battery technology have improved the travel range of electric wheelchairs, making them suitable for long day trips outside as well when accompanied by a caregiver.

Market Driver – Healthcare Investments Focused on Geriatric Population and Unmet Needs

The aging population in Australia is driving significant growth in the electric wheelchair market. As per the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the proportion of people aged 65 and over is expected to grow from 15% currently to more than 22% by 2058. This will significantly increase the number of older people who require mobility assistance. At the same time, the prevalence of age-related disabilities like arthritis, osteoporosis and joint problems is also rising in the geriatric population.

All of these factors are resulting in a growing demand for products that enhance mobility and promote independent living among seniors. Electric wheelchairs have emerged as a convenient solution as they provide freedom of movement without straining the body. Features like powered propulsion, tilt and recline functions make electric wheelchairs a practical assistance device. According to World Health Organization data, musculoskeletal conditions are the third largest contributor to years lived with disability globally. This highlights the massive need for products improving accessibility and quality of life for those suffering from such conditions.

Market Challenge – Frequent Product Recalls

Frequent product recalls due to quality and safety issues have significantly restrained the growth of Australia's electric wheelchair market in recent years. When mobility assistive products get recalled in large numbers, it erodes consumer confidence in the industry and discourages new purchases. Between 2020 to 2022, there have been several instances of recalls initiated by major electric wheelchair manufacturers and distributors in Australia due to defects detected.

For example, in 2022, Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued a recall of 185 units of a popular electric wheelchair model citing significant issues with the battery packs that could result in overheating and potential fires. Similarly, in 2021, another 150 units of a different brand of powered wheelchairs were recalled owing to faults in the wiring harness which increased the risk of sudden loss of power and accidents during use. These high-profile mass recalls understandably scared many potential consumers and raised doubts about the reliability and safety standards of electric powered wheelchairs.

As a result, the demand drastically dropped as consumers chose to opt for manual wheelchairs instead or postponed their purchase decisions until the issues were resolved.

Market Opportunity – Innovations in Electrical Wheelchair

Electric wheelchairs have become increasingly popular assistive devices for mobility in Australia. Recent innovations in the technology present a promising opportunity for growth in the electric wheelchair market here. With an aging population and rising rates of disability, the need for wheelchairs is projected to rise substantially in the coming years. Advanced electric wheelchairs that are lighter, more durable, and offer greater customization and functionality could help meet this growing demand.

New battery technologies are allowing wheelchairs to travel longer distances on a single charge. Lithium-ion batteries commonly found in electric vehicles are being adapted for wheelchairs, doubling or tripling the range between charges. This boosts independence and spontaneity for wheelchair users. Novel designs integrate batteries directly into the frame or wheels, making the wheelchairs more compact. More efficient motors and controls are also extending running times. The adoption of renewable energy solutions like solar panels can provide convenient battery charging in any location. These longer-lasting electric wheelchairs address a major limitation that previously restricted their use.

Additional built-in technologies are enhancing comfort, safety and accessibility. Modern electric wheelchairs come equipped with innovative features like integrated scale functions to monitor weight changes, precision driving controls, crash sensors, and Bluetooth connectivity capabilities.