How NDIS Funding Works: Newcastle Participant Guide
Understanding your NDIS funding is essential to making the most of your plan. Whether you’ve just joined the scheme or you’re preparing for a plan review, this guide will help you break down how funding works—and how to use it effectively as a participant living in Newcastle or Lake Macquarie.
Key Elements of Your NDIS Plan Budget
When you receive your NDIS plan, it will be divided into three main types of support budgets:
- Core Supports
- Capacity Building Supports
- Capital Supports
1. Core Supports
This budget is designed to help with everyday tasks and basic living needs. It's usually the most flexible part of your plan and can be used across categories like:
- Personal care (dressing, showering, grooming)
- Community access (social activities, group support)
- Meal preparation and household tasks
- Transport to school, work, or appointments
2. Capacity Building Supports
This budget aims to build your independence over time. Examples include:
- Therapy services such as OT, physio, and speech pathology
- Support coordination to manage your services
- Employment-related support
- Improving daily living skills
3. Capital Supports
Used for high-cost items like:
- Assistive technology (e.g., hoists, hearing aids)
- Home modifications (e.g., ramps, accessible bathrooms)
Plan Management Options: Who Handles Your Funding?
You can choose how your funds are managed:
- NDIA-managed: The agency pays providers directly
- Plan-managed: A registered plan manager handles invoicing and tracking
- Self-managed: You pay invoices yourself and claim reimbursement
EnableU supports all three types and works with participants across Newcastle regardless of how their plan is managed.
Tracking and Reviewing Your Budget
Using the NDIS myplace portal or working with a plan manager allows you to:
- Track spending in real-time
- Adjust service delivery as needed
- Prepare for your plan review with confidence
What If I Run Out of Funds?
If you find your funds are running low, you may be eligible for:
- A plan reassessment
- An urgent review
- Assistance from your Support Coordinator
Common Questions From Newcastle Participants
- Can I change my funding type? Yes, you can request changes at your next plan review.
- Can I get extra funds? Only if there's a significant change in circumstances, supported by documentation.
- What can I do if a provider overcharges? Report it to the NDIS Commission and your support coordinator immediately.
Contact EnableU today if you’d like help understanding or managing your NDIS plan budget.
