Understanding NDIS Funding:
Core, Capacity Building & Capital Supports
A Complete Guide for NDIS Participants
When you receive your NDIS plan, it’s essential to understand how your funding is structured. NDIS funding is divided into categories called “budgets,” which determine the types of supports you can access and how you can use your funds.
This guide explains each funding type, what it covers, and how you can use your plan to achieve your goals.
What is NDIS Funding?
NDIS funding supports eligible people with disability to access services, live independently, participate in the community, and achieve their goals. Funding is allocated based on your needs and what is considered “reasonable and necessary.”
Understanding your plan budgets helps you make informed choices and use your NDIS plan effectively.
The Three Main Funding Budgets
Your NDIS plan usually includes:
- Core Supports Budget
- Capacity Building Supports Budget
- Capital Supports Budget
Some plans may also include recurring supports depending on individual circumstances.
Core Supports Budget
Some plans may also include recurring supports depending on individual circumstances.
What it covers:
- Personal care and household tasks
- Consumables, such as continence products
- Support to participate in social or community activities
- Transport assistance when public transport cannot be used
Key points:
- Flexible within the budget for most supports
- Designed to help participants manage daily life and participation in the community
The Capacity Building Supports Budget is focused on skill development and independence.
What it covers:
- Support coordination to help you understand and use your plan
- Improved daily living skills, employment, education, and health programs
- Social and community participation training
Key points:
- Focused on developing long-term independence
- Less flexible than Core; funds must be used within allocated sub-categories
- Helps participants achieve personal goals and increase autonomy
Capacity Building Supports Budget
Capital Supports Budget
The Capital Supports Budget is for one-off, high-cost items or supports that improve independence.
What it covers:
- Assistive technology, such as wheelchairs or communication devices
- Home modifications like ramps, handrails, and bathroom changes
- Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in certain cases
Key points:
- Funds are typically not transferable to other uses
- Requires careful planning and approvals
- Supports long-term independence and participation
How the Budgets Work Together
Your NDIS plan outlines how much funding is allocated to each budget based on your goals and assessed needs.
- Core supports cover day-to-day tasks and participation
- Capacity Building helps develop skills and independence
- Capital funds major equipment or home modifications
Tips for Participants:
- Check which supports are stated vs flexible
- Align your spending with your goals
- Monitor your budget to avoid running out of funds
Changing Your Funding or Plan
Helpful Contacts for NDIS Participants
- NDIA Participant Contact: 1800 800 110 (Mon–Fri, 8 am–8 pm)
- NDIS Quality & Safeguards Commission: 1800 035 544 (Mon–Fri, 9 am–5:30 pm)
- Local Area Coordinators (LACs): Find your LAC
- Changing your plan: Request a plan change
- Search for Registered Providers: Find a provider
Why Understanding Funding Types Matters
- Use supports in the right budget category
- Make informed decisions about providers and services
- Avoid overspending in one area and leaving other budgets empty
- Align your supports with your personal goals
