Understanding the Main NDIS Budgets: Core, Capacity Building, Capital & Recurring Transport

Your NDIS plan is divided into different funding categories called budgets, each designed to support different areas of your life. Knowing what each budget covers helps you use your plan confidently and effectively.

1. Core Supports Budget

This is the most flexible part of your plan. It covers everyday support that helps you with daily living, social participation and independence.

It includes four categories:

• Assistance with Daily Living (e.g. personal care, meal prep, cleaning)

• Consumables (e.g. continence products, low-cost assistive aids)

• Social & Community Participation

• Transport Funding (if eligible)

You can usually move funding around within the Core budget, depending on your needs.

2. Capacity Building Budget

This budget helps you build skills and become more independent over time. Unlike Core, Capacity Building funding is not flexible across categories — each part has a specific purpose.

Common categories include:

• Improved Daily Living (therapy, psychology, assessments)

• Improved Life Choices (plan management)

• Improved Health & Wellbeing

• Finding & Keeping a Job

• Improved Relationships

• Improved Learning

3. Capital Supports Budget

This funding is for larger, more specialised or long-term purchases. It is not flexible and can only be used for approved items.

Two main components:

• Assistive Technology (e.g. wheelchairs, hearing aids, communication devices)

• Home Modifications (e.g. ramps, bathroom changes)

You usually need reports or quotes to access these funds.

4. Recurring Transport Funding

Transport funding is for participants who can’t use public transport because of their disability. These funds are paid directly to you (usually fortnightly) and fall under the Core budget.

There are 3 levels based on your participation needs — from local travel to work, community or study commitments.

Need Help Using Your NDIS Budgets?

At Pacific Community Care, we help you understand and make the most of each funding category — whether it’s planning your supports, coordinating services or managing your budget.