What Can NDIS Funds Be Used For and How to Spend Your Budget

Your NDIS funds can be used for services and items that help you with your disability. These must be on the official NDIS Support List and help you reach your goals.

TL;DR: Spending Your NDIS Budget

Since October 2024, the NDIS has a strict list of things you can and cannot buy. This is called the Approved NDIS Support List. Your funding is split into four main buckets: Core, Capacity Building, Capital, and Recurring.

You can spend your money on things like therapy, support workers, and equipment that helps you move or talk. You cannot spend it on daily living costs like rent or groceries. If you want to buy something that is not on the list, you must ask the NDIS for a "Replacement Support." We help our clients understand these rules so they can use every dollar of their plan.

The Four Main Types of NDIS Budgets

Your NDIS plan organizes your money into four categories. Each one has a different purpose.

The four categories are:

• Core Supports: For everyday help and items you need right now.

• Capacity Building: For therapy and training to help you grow your skills.

• Capital Supports: For big, expensive things like wheelchairs or home ramps.

• Recurring Supports: Cash payments sent to your bank account for transport.

We focus on Psychosocial Support which often falls under Capacity Building. This helps you build a better life through mental health care.

What Can You Buy with Core Supports?

Core Supports is usually the most flexible part of your plan. You can often move money between categories in this budget.

You can use Core funding for:

• Personal Care: Help with showering, dressing, and cooking.

• Social Help: A support worker to take you to the movies or a club.

• Consumables: Small items like pads, wipes, or low-cost tools.

• Cleaning: Help with household chores if you cannot do them yourself.

Our team provides Supported Independent Living using these funds. This ensures you have 24/7 help in your own home.

Can I Buy a Laptop with NDIS Funding?

This is a very common question for participants. The answer is usually no, but there are some exceptions.

The NDIS usually views a laptop as a "general living expense." This means most people should buy their own laptop. However, you might get one if:

• You need it for a specific communication app that only works on that device.

• It is a "Replacement Support" for a much more expensive piece of tech.

• Your therapist writes a letter explaining why a standard tablet is not enough.

In 2026, the NDIS is very strict about this. You should always check with your plan manager before buying any computer or phone.

How Is NDIS Transport Funding Paid?

Transport funding is different from other parts of your plan. It is often paid as a "Recurring Support."

Here is how transport payments work:

• The NDIS pays the money directly into your bank account.

• These payments usually happen every two weeks.

• You do not need to make a claim or show receipts to the NDIS for this cash.

• You use this money to pay for taxis, buses, or fuel for your car.

If you have a support worker who drives you around, that is usually paid from your Core budget instead. You can find more about transport rules on the NDIS website.

Using Capacity Building for Your Future

Capacity Building is all about learning. You cannot move this money to your Core budget. It must stay in this category.

You can use this money for:

• Therapy: Like speech therapy or occupational therapy.

• Skill Building: Learning how to cook, use a bus, or manage money.

• Employment Support: Help to find a job or get training at TAFE.

• Support Coordination: A person to help you find and book your services.

We help many people in Western Australia and Victoria use these funds to become more independent.

Capital Supports for Home and Vehicle

Capital funding is for high-cost items. These items usually stay with you for many years.

This budget covers:

• Assistive Technology: Like power wheelchairs or hearing aids.

• Home Modifications: Like putting in a lift or a wet-room bathroom.

• Vehicle Changes: Like adding a ramp to your van.

If you live in the Northern Territory, getting these items can take longer. We help you work with local builders and suppliers to get your home ready.

What NDIS Funds Cannot Be Used For

The NDIS has a "Non-Allowable" list. You cannot use your funding for these items under any circumstances.

Items that are not approved include:

• Rent and Mortgages: These are ordinary living costs.

• Groceries: Everyone has to buy their own food.

• Gifts: You cannot buy presents for friends with NDIS money.

• Holidays: The NDIS pays for the care you need on holiday, but not the hotel or flights.

• Illegal Items: Anything that is against the law.

You can see the full Approved Supports List to stay safe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using NDIS Funds

Can I buy a weighted blanket with NDIS?

Yes, if it helps with your disability. This is usually called "Low-Cost Assistive Technology." You should have a letter from a therapist saying you need it.

Can I use NDIS for a gym membership?

No, the NDIS does not pay for gym memberships. They view this as a cost that people without disabilities also pay. However, they might pay for a support worker to go to the gym with you.

Can I buy a car with NDIS funding?

No, the NDIS will not buy you a car. They will only pay for the modifications to a car you already own, like a steering aid or a wheelchair lift.

What is a Replacement Support?

This is when you ask to buy something that is not on the approved list. You must prove that the new item is better value for money than the one on the list.

How do I check if my support is approved?

You can use the "Can I buy this?" tool on the NDIS website or ask your plan manager. We are always here to help you contact us if you are unsure.