The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to give Australians living with disability more choice and control over their supports. However, understanding how NDIS funding is allocated can be confusing — especially with its three main categories: Core Supports, Capacity Building Supports, and Capital Supports.
In this guide, we’ll break down each funding category, explain what’s included, and show how they work together to help you live more independently and confidently.
What Are NDIS Funding Categories?
NDIS funding is divided into categories to ensure your supports are aligned with your personal goals, daily needs, and long-term development. Each category provides different types of assistance and flexibility in how you can use the funding.
The three main NDIS funding categories are:
- Core Supports – to help you with everyday activities and essential needs.
- Capacity Building Supports – to develop your skills, confidence, and independence.
- Capital Supports – for assistive technologies, home modifications, and long-term investments.
Core Supports: Everyday Essentials
Core Supports are the foundation of your NDIS plan. They cover day-to-day activities and essential support services that help you live independently and participate in your community.
You can often use Core funding flexibly across subcategories, depending on your needs.
Core Supports Include:
- Assistance with Daily Living
Support with personal tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, and household chores.
Example: A support worker helping with meal preparation or morning routines. - Assistance with Social and Community Participation
Support to help you engage in social, recreational, or community activities.
Example: Attending an art class, going shopping, or joining a community event. - Consumables
Everyday items related to your disability needs.
Example: Continence products, mobility aids, or feeding equipment. - Transport
Funding to help you get to appointments, work, or social events if you cannot use public transport.
Example: Reimbursement for taxis or accessible transport services.
Core funding offers flexibility — if you don’t use all funds in one area, you may be able to shift them to another Core category (except transport).
Capacity Building Supports: Building Skills for Independence
Capacity Building funding helps you learn new skills, grow your confidence, and achieve your personal goals. Unlike Core Supports, this funding is not flexible between subcategories — each is designed for a specific outcome.
Capacity Building Includes:
- Improved Daily Living
Supports like therapy, counselling, or skill-building to promote independence.
Example: Occupational therapy or life skills training. - Improved Health and Wellbeing
Programs that help you maintain physical and mental health.
Example: Exercise physiology or nutrition advice. - Improved Relationships
Behavioural and social support to strengthen personal relationships.
Example: Behaviour management or communication training. - Finding and Keeping a Job
Employment-related supports for job seekers and workers.
Example: Resume building or workplace coaching. - Improved Learning
Assistance with education and skill development.
Example: Support to attend TAFE or online courses. - Improved Life Choices (Plan Management)
Funding to hire a plan manager to help you manage budgets and invoices. - Improved Living Arrangements
Support to help you explore housing options or prepare to move out independently.
Think of Capacity Building as an investment in your future independence — it helps you learn, grow, and live more confidently.
Capital Supports: Long-Term Investments
Capital Supports are designed for higher-cost items and infrastructure that improve your quality of life and long-term independence. This category usually requires quotes and approval before funds are released.
Capital Supports Include:
- Assistive Technology (AT)
Equipment that helps you move, communicate, or complete tasks safely.
Examples: Wheelchairs, hearing aids, communication devices. - Home Modifications
Changes to your home to make it safer and more accessible.
Examples: Installing ramps, grab rails, or accessible bathrooms. - Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Housing designed for people with high support needs, ensuring safe and comfortable living environments.
Capital funding is not flexible — you can’t move money between Core or Capacity categories, and approvals are based on assessments and evidence.
How AAYDS Helps You Manage NDIS Funding
At All About You Disability Support (AAYDS), we know that understanding your NDIS plan can feel overwhelming. Our experienced team can help you:
- Interpret your plan and funding categories.
- Coordinate your supports across Core, Capacity, and Capital budgets.
- Match you with the right support workers and therapists.
- Maximise your NDIS benefits while staying compliant.
We believe every participant deserves a personalised approach — one that reflects their goals, preferences, and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Understanding your NDIS funding categories is the first step toward making the most of your plan. Core Supports help you with everyday living, Capacity Building supports your growth and independence, and Capital Supports fund major items that enhance your quality of life.
At AAYDS, we’re here to help you navigate these categories and use your funding effectively — so you can live your best life, your way.
