Understanding NDIS Plan Budgets: What are Core Supports?

Within a NDIS plan, funding is divided into several key budgets: Core Supports, Capacity Building Supports and Capital Supports. In this post, we’re taking a closer look at Core Supports—the most flexible part of your plan designed to help you manage daily life and work toward your goals.

What are Core Supports?

Core Supports are intended to help you with daily living tasks, disability-related needs, and participation in your community. This part of your budget is often flexible, meaning you can typically move funds between the different Core categories depending on your needs. However, some restrictions may apply—particularly when it comes to transport funding.

The Four Core Support Categories

Let’s break down the four areas where you may receive Core Support funding:

1. Assistance with Daily Life

This category supports tasks you may struggle with on your own due to your disability. You might use this funding to hire a support worker who can assist with:

• Personal care, like showering and dressing

• Household tasks such as cleaning, cooking or laundry

• Outdoor maintenance, including gardening and lawn mowing

Note: This funding doesn’t cover everyday expenses like rent, groceries, or cleaning products—it’s designed specifically to support tasks made harder by disability.

2. Consumables

This part of your budget is for everyday disability-related items that are low-cost and low-risk. Examples include:

• Continence aids

• Eating and drinking equipment

• Basic health-related aids like non-slip mats or grab rails

These items typically cost under $1,500 and can be purchased from regular stores or online retailers. Higher-cost or specialised items fall under Capital Supports.

3. Assistance with Social, Economic, and Community Participation

This funding is focused on helping you engage more in social and community life. It may support:

• Attending social or recreational events

• Participating in local community activities

• Building confidence and skills to get involved

• Visiting libraries, exhibitions, or public events

Note: The NDIS generally doesn’t pay for event tickets or memberships, but it can fund the support you need to attend and enjoy these activities.

4. Transport

If you’re unable to use public transport due to your disability, you may receive transport funding to help you get around. This might cover private transport to:

• Attend work or education

• Join in community or social activities

• Access essential services

This funding generally won’t apply to transport costs for family or support workers and doesn’t cover everyday commitments like school unless specifically outlined in your plan.

Using Your Core Supports Effectively

Maximising your Core Supports begins with understanding how they align with your daily life, challenges, and personal goals. Take a moment to reflect on your routine—what tasks are more difficult, and where could extra support make a difference? Whether it’s assistance from a support worker, access to helpful consumables, or transport to community activities, each funding category is designed to support your independence. By being thoughtful and strategic with how you use your budget, you can ensure every dollar is helping you live more confidently and comfortably.

How Can Plan Management Help You?

Plan management can take the stress out of managing your NDIS funding. At Pacific Plan Management, we handle the day-to-day admin; processing invoices, tracking your spending, and making sure your providers get paid on time. You'll have real-time access to your budget and personalised support to help you make the most of your plan.

Best of all, our services are fully covered in your NDIS plan—there’s no additional cost to you. Get in touch with us today and experience how easy and empowering plan management can be.

💻 www.pacificplan.com.au

📞 1800 861 112

✉ accounts@pacificplan.com.au