NDIS is given in the form of plans, with each participant getting a personalised plan. However, this happens after an evaluation with a qualified health professional. Then, the participant gets money allocated to them based on their needs and goals. It doesn’t matter whether you are new to NDIS or a veteran; it’s important to understand the NDIS budgets. Knowing the different categories will help you know in which category you fall. To start it off, here is a detailed post on these categories.
Types of NDIS support budgets
There are three categories of NDIS budgets, and include the following.
1. Core supports budget
This is the funding for daily activities and immediate needs related to the participant’s disability. The amount allocated in this category depends on participants’ goals, needs and the present level of support. For instance, the core support budget for people with complex needs is bigger than any other person’s. This budget offers money for NDIS support services and support workers that can offer companionship by accompanying participants to social events. It also provides an amount for transport and low-cost consumables such as
- Pressure cushions
- Simple communication applications
- continence aids
2. Capacity building budget
This NDIS budget’s main objective is to improve independence and build skills to allow participants to pursue their goals. Participants with less complex needs may get larger funding to equip them well, gearing towards independence over time. Here are the support categories that this budget funds.
- Improved living arrangements and increased social and community participation- Here the funding helps in finding and maintaining proper accommodations. In terms of social participation, it allows the development of skills so you can participate in the community. These skills will enable you to attend social gatherings and participate in recreational activities.
- Looking for a job and keeping it- It may include employment-related support such as training and assessment to help find and keep a job.
- Improved relationships, health and well-being – With this support, you can develop positive behaviours and interact with others building healthy relationships. When it comes to health and well-being, it might include diet and exercise to help manage disability.
- Improved learning- The support enables you to take part in the training. In addition, it also enables you to get advice and help to shift from school to further education.
- Improved life choices and daily living– The support revolves around boosting your skills, community participation and independence, for instance, getting therapy or training. They can be delivered in groups or individually. For choices, you get funding to manage your plan, funding and pay for service.
3. Capital support budget
It’s for the large-budget items not covered by a core support. It includes the following.
- High alternative and augmentative communication devices-This comprises equipment or devices necessary for personal care, movement, communication and recreation inclusion. It might include wheelchair and vehicle modification.
- Home modification-This funding allows you to make modifications in your home to make life easy. For example, it can include the installation of handrails in the washroom or specialist disability accommodation for people who need special housing.
It’s important to understand that some plans require you to get a quotation from your healthcare provider before getting funding. However, some plans might not have this money allocated to this budget. The funding allocated also depends on the client’s needs and goals.
In addition, the healthcare professional can apply for high-cost assistive technology even if the plan doesn’t cover it. Note that these applications are assessed case-by-case and are only successful sometimes. To get consideration, the participant should speak for themselves and the importance of planning meetings. This way, you can convince them how the assistive technology will play a role in achieving your goals.
There you have the different NDIS support budgets and what they cater for. However, it’s crucial to remember the amount depends on the needs and goals of an individual. Have the right management plan to help you manage the fund and track your spending. Doing this will help you understand whether you are overspending or underspending. Always remember that funding is supposed to improve your life and help you attain independence.