NDIS funding is the money the government gives to people with a disability. You use this money to buy supports that help you reach your life goals. Each plan is different because it is made just for your specific needs.

TL;DR

NDIS funding is split into three main parts: Core, Capital, and Capacity Building. These parts pay for things like daily help, home changes, and learning new skills. In 2026, the NDIS is moving to a new planning system. This system will make budgets fairer and more flexible for everyone.

We help people in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory. We are experts in mental health and home living support. We found that the right evidence is the key to getting the funding you need. We guide you through the rules so you can live the life you choose.

What are the three NDIS budget categories?

The NDIS divides your funding into three buckets called Core, Capital, and Capacity Building. You must use the money in each bucket for the right kind of support.

[Image showing Core, Capital, and Capacity Building categories]

Your Core budget is the most flexible. You use it for everyday tasks like cleaning or taking a bus. Capital funding is for big, one-off costs. This includes things like wheelchairs or making your bathroom safer. Capacity Building is for learning. It pays for therapists who teach you how to be more independent.

We find that many people get confused by these names. We have made a simple list below to help you remember what each one does.

NDIS Budget Breakdown

Category	What it pays for	Is it flexible?
Core	Daily help, transport, and supplies.	Yes, very flexible.
Capital	Equipment and home changes.	No, use it for specific items only.
Capacity Building	Therapy, training, and plan help.	No, use it for the category listed.

How do you get funding for SIL?

Supported Independent Living (SIL) funding pays for workers to help you at home 24/7. To get it, you need a functional assessment that shows you need help with daily tasks.

SIL is a big part of what we do at NDHS. We found that SIL funding in 2026 often ranges from $80,000 to over $320,000 per year. The amount you get depends on how much help you need during the day and night.

To get this funding, you must show the NDIS that you cannot live safely without help. You will need reports from an Occupational Therapist. You will also need a "Roster of Care." This is a plan that shows exactly when you need a worker. We help you gather this proof so you can move into a home you love.

Can you get funding for mental health?

Yes, the NDIS funds support for psychosocial disabilities. This funding helps you stay connected to your community and manage your mental health.

Psychosocial disability is a term used for mental health conditions that affect your daily life. We see how this funding changes lives in the Northern Territory and Western Australia. It pays for recovery coaches who help you set goals. It also pays for support workers who help you get out of the house.

The NDIS looks for "functional impact." This means they want to know how your mental health stops you from doing things. We use evidence-based methods to show the NDIS why your support is vital. We are part of the Australian Scientific Research and Development program. We use our expertise to make sure your mental health is taken seriously.

What is "Reasonable and Necessary" funding?

The NDIS only funds supports that are reasonable and necessary for your disability. This means the support must be fair in price and truly helpful for your goals.

The NDIS uses a legal test to decide what to pay for. They ask if a support is related to your disability. They also check if it is something a family would usually pay for. For example, they will pay for a special bed but not for normal bedroom furniture.

We help you talk to the NDIS about your needs. We found that being clear about your goals is the best way to get approval. If your goal is to find a job, you can ask for funding that helps you learn work skills. We make sure every dollar in your plan has a purpose.

How will NDIS planning change in 2026?

From mid-2026, the NDIS will use a new framework for planning. This will focus on your "whole-of-person" needs and offer more flexible budgets.

The Australian Government has updated the laws for 2026. They want to make the NDIS easier for families. The new plans will last longer, so you don't have to do as many reviews. They will also use a new tool called the I-CAN to assess what you need.

We are watching these changes closely. We want to make sure you are ready when your plan moves to the new system. These changes aim to reduce the need for expensive medical reports. They focus on what you can do and what you want to achieve. We are here to guide you through this new way of working.

Why is NDHS a good choice for your funding?

We are a fully registered provider with a focus on parents and families. We understand the journey of the parent because we walk it with you.

We operate in specific areas like Queensland and Victoria. We know the local rules and the best people to help you. Our team is trained to handle complex needs, especially for children and those with mental health goals.

We believe in being honest and direct. We tell you exactly what your funding can and cannot do. This helps you avoid stress later. We want you to feel in control of your money and your life. Being a registered provider means we meet high quality and safety standards. You can trust us to put your needs first.

FAQ

Can I spend my NDIS money on anything?

No, you can only spend it on "NDIS supports." These are things that help with your disability. You cannot use it for things like rent, food, or cinema tickets.

How do I check my budget?

You can use the MyPlace portal to see your money. Many people also use a Plan Manager to help them track their spending.

What happens if I run out of money?

The NDIS does not automatically give you more money if you spend it too fast. You must manage your budget so it lasts for the whole plan. If your life changes suddenly, you can ask for a plan review.

Do I need a quote for everything?

You usually need a quote for high-cost items over $15,000. For small daily things, you can often just buy them if you have the budget.

Can I change my mind about my provider?

Yes, you have "choice and control." If you are not happy, you can find a new provider. Just check your Service Agreement for the notice period.

Useful Resources

We want to help you make the most of your NDIS funding. You can learn more on our Psychosocial Support or SIL pages. If you need help with your plan, please contact us today. We look forward to supporting your future.

NDIS Funding Guide to Help You Plan for 2026