Great question — and you’re not the only one asking it
One of the most common things we hear from NDIS participants (and their families) is: I’m not really sure what I’m allowed to spend my funding on. It’s completely understandable. The NDIS has a lot of rules, and the language can be confusing. So let’s break it down in plain English.
The golden rule: reasonable and necessary
Before anything else, there’s one test that every NDIS purchase needs to pass. The NDIA asks: is this support reasonable and necessary? That means the support needs to be related to your disability, help you pursue your goals, represent value for money, not be something a family member would normally provide, and not be covered by another government system like Medicare or education. If it ticks those boxes, you’re generally on solid ground.
The three support categories
Your NDIS plan is divided into three broad funding categories.
Core Supports — The most flexible category. Covers everyday supports like personal care, help around the home, community participation, and consumables such as continence products or low-cost assistive tech.
Capacity Building Supports — Designed to help you build independence over time. Covers therapy (speech, occupational, physio), support coordination, employment support, and improved daily living programs.
Capital Supports — Covers bigger-ticket items like assistive technology (wheelchairs or communication devices) and home or vehicle modifications. These funds are generally tied to specific approved items.
Some common things NDIS funding can cover
- Support workers for personal care, community access, or overnight support
- Occupational therapy, speech therapy, physiotherapy, and psychology
- Specialised transport to appointments or activities
- Home modifications like ramps, grab rails, or bathroom adjustments
- Assistive technology — wheelchairs, communication aids, hearing equipment
- Supported independent living or drop-in support
- Plan management and support coordination
- Recreational and social programs that support your goals
What NDIS funding can’t be used for
Just as important is knowing what’s not covered. NDIS funding generally can’t be used for day-to-day living costs everyone has (rent, food, utilities), supports covered by another system like Medicare or schools, things unrelated to your disability, or holidays and travel unless they directly relate to a disability-specific need. If you’re ever unsure, check with your plan manager before spending — that’s exactly what we’re here for.
Tips for getting the most out of your funding
Know your budget categories. Funds in one category generally can’t be moved to another, so it’s worth understanding what sits where in your plan.
Keep your goals front of mind. The NDIA will always look at whether a support connects to your stated goals, so it helps to be clear on what you’re working towards.
Don’t leave funding unused. Unspent funds don’t roll over at the end of your plan period. If you’re consistently underspending, it might be time to review your supports.
Ask questions. Your plan manager should be able to tell you whether a particular expense is likely to be approved — before you commit to it.
We’re here to help you make sense of it all
At The Plan Management People, we help NDIS participants across Australia manage their funding without the stress. We process invoices quickly, keep you updated on your budget, and are always happy to answer questions about what is and isn’t covered. And because plan management is funded separately by the NDIS, it won’t cost you anything.
📞 Call us: 0456 977 362
💌 Email: admin@pmpeople.com.au
🌐 Visit: www.planmanagementpeople.com.au
