Understanding the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds eligible participants to support their disability-related needs. The NDIS budget is divided into three categories: Core Support Budget, Capacity Building Support Budget, and Capital Support Budget.

1. Core Support Budget

This budget provides funding for the day-to-day support needs of NDIS participants. It covers assistance with daily living activities, personal care, and community access. The Core Support Budget is divided into four categories:

Assistance with Daily Living: This service can include help with daily activities such as showering, dressing and meal preparation.
Consumables: This category covers the cost of consumable items such as continence aids, wound dressings, and nutritional supplements.
Assistance with Social and Community Participation: This category covers support for participants to access community activities and events.
Transport: This category covers the cost of transportation to attend appointments, community activities, and events.

2. Capacity Building Support Budget

This budget provides funding for participants to build their skills and independence. It covers support for participants to achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. The Capacity Building Support Budget is divided into nine categories:

Support Coordination: This category covers the cost of a support coordinator to help participants navigate the NDIS and access services.
Improved Living Arrangements: This category covers support for participants to find and maintain suitable housing.
Increased Social and Community Participation: This category covers support for participants to engage in social and community activities.
Finding and Keeping a Job: This category covers support for participants to find and maintain employment.
Improved Relationships: This category covers support for participants to strengthen their relationships with family, friends, and others.
Improved Health and Well-being: This category covers support for participants to improve their physical and mental health.
Improved Learning: This category covers support for participants to enhance their education and learning.
Improved Life Choices: This category covers support for participants to make informed decisions about their lives.

3. Capital Support Budget

This budget funds participants to purchase equipment, home modifications, and assistive technology. It covers items considered to be long-term investments in the participant’s independence and well-being. The NDIS budget is designed to be flexible and tailored to the individual needs of each participant.