If you’re new to the NDIS, you might find yourself asking:
“How do I know what I can spend my NDIS funding on?”
Understanding your plan is key to making the most of your NDIS funding. One of the most important things to learn is how your funding is divided into support categories. These categories determine what types of supports you can access—and how flexible you can be with your budget.
In this post, we break down the 3 main types of NDIS support categories, with examples to help you make informed choices.
1. Core Supports
Core Supports help you with everyday activities and basic functional needs. They are the most flexible part of your plan and usually allow you to move funding between sub-categories, depending on what you need most.
Examples of Core Supports include:
- Personal care, such as help with showering or dressing
- Assistance with household tasks like cleaning or laundry
- Transport to medical appointments or community activities
- Low-cost consumables like continence products or dietary supplements
- Social and community participation support, such as attending group programs or recreational activities
Tip: If your needs change—such as requiring more personal care after surgery—you can usually reallocate Core Support funds without needing NDIA approval.
2. Capacity Building Supports
This category is all about skill development and independence. These supports help you work toward long-term goals, such as getting a job, improving communication, managing your plan, or building stronger relationships.
Examples of Capacity Building Supports include:
- Therapies like speech, occupational or physiotherapy
- Support Coordination to help manage and use your NDIS plan effectively
- Employment-related supports, such as job coaching or training
- Improved daily living skills—such as cooking classes or budgeting assistance
- Improved health and wellbeing, including exercise programs and nutrition advice
Important: Unlike Core Supports, Capacity Building funds are allocated to specific goals and sub-categories. You cannot move funds freely between them—each portion must be used as outlined in your plan.
3. Capital Supports
Capital Supports cover higher-cost, one-off items that help you live more independently. These supports often require quotes and NDIA approval before the purchase can be made.
Examples of Capital Supports include:
- Assistive technology, such as communication devices or mobility equipment
- Home modifications, like installing a ramp or accessible bathroom
- Vehicle modifications to help you travel safely and independently
- Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), designed for people with extreme functional impairment or very high support needs
Note: Because these supports are often large investments, it’s important to go through the correct approval process. Work with your provider or Support Coordinator to gather quotes and submit the right paperwork.
How Do I Know What’s in My Plan?
Your NDIS plan will clearly list how much funding you have in each category. It’s important to read it carefully and understand the breakdown. If you’re unsure, your Support Coordinator (if you have one) or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) can help explain how to use each part of your plan.
Using your funds correctly means:
- You avoid unnecessary delays or declined claims
- You make the most of your plan by choosing supports aligned with your goals
- You stay on track toward building a more independent and fulfilling life
Final Thoughts
Knowing the difference between Core, Capacity Building, and Capital Supports is one of the most useful NDIS tips we can share. It gives you more confidence, more control, and better outcomes.
If you’re feeling unsure, don’t hesitate to ask for help. A good provider or Support Coordinator will take the time to guide you through your plan and make sure you’re using your funding in the best possible way.
Need support understanding your NDIS plan?
Contact Angels on Wheels today. As a registered NDIS provider, we offer personalised guidance to help you make the most of your supports—every step of the way.
