Working out NDIS funding can sometimes be confusing; however, once you understand how it operates, it becomes much easier to identify the support that best suits your needs. Disability Services in Australia, including NDIS registered providers, can help support you with this.
One of the major NDIS funding categories is Capacity Building Supports, which is focused on skill development, building confidence, and encouraging long-term independence.
While Core Supports provide ongoing assistance, Capacity Building Supports are used to enable a participant to build their independence and skills, such as obtaining employment, enhancing daily living skills, community participation, and many others.
So, what exactly does Capacity Building cover? How do you use it, and how do you make sure you’re getting the most out of your funding? Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Three NDIS Funding Types
| NDIS Funding Type | Purpose | Examples of Supports | Flexibility |
| Core Supports | Covers daily activities and essential needs | – Personal care assistance
– Household tasks – Social and community participation – Transport |
Highly flexible—funds can be moved across its four categories. |
| Capacity Building Supports | Concentrates on skill development and long-term growth | – Finding and keeping a Job
– Improved Relationships – Health and well-being programs |
Funds are allocated to specific categories and cannot be transferred between them. |
| Capital Supports | Provides funding for one-time investments | – Assistive technology (e.g., wheelchairs, hearing aids)
– Home modifications (e.g., ramps, railings) |
Strictly allocated—funds must be used only for their designated purpose. |
What Does Capacity Building Funding Cover?
Capacity Building Supports are divided into nine categories, each targeting different aspects of personal growth and independence.
1. Support Coordination
- Helps you understand and then implement your NDIS plan.
- Connects you with the right service providers.
- Ensures you’re using your funding effectively.
If you’re in need of expert guidance, NDIS-registered support coordinators can help you navigate the system and provide information to support the process.
2. Improved Living Arrangements
- Assists in finding and securing suitable accommodation.
- Helps with tenancy agreements and rental applications.
- Ensures housing aligns with your needs and goals.
For those looking for housing support, a Registered NDIS Service Provider can help streamline the process.
3. Increased Social and Community Participation
- Covers training, mentorship, and activities to build social skills.
- Supports participation in sports, community groups, and classes.
- Can be used for tuition fees, activity-based transport, and coaching.
Many people rely on disability services in NSW to find inclusive services that encourage social engagement and community participation.
4. Finding and Keeping a Job
- Supports employment training, assessments, and mentoring.
- Covers job-seeking assistance, resume-building, and skill development.
- Funds a support worker to assist you at your workplace if needed.
If you’re searching for career support, Disability Support Services in NSW can offer valuable assistance.
5. Improved Relationships
- Helps develop positive social interactions and behaviour management.
- Covers behavioural therapy and social skills training.
- May fund support groups or counselling services.
This funding is particularly beneficial for people who need structured support in forming and maintaining relationships.
6. Improved Health and Wellbeing
- Provides access to exercise programs and nutrition planning.
- Covers personal training, physiotherapy, and dietary support.
- Focuses on preventative health strategies to maintain well-being.
Note: This category does not cover gym memberships, but it may fund a trainer or therapist to assist with structured exercise.
7. Improved Learning
- Supports education and training for school, TAFE, or university.
- Funds tutors, mentors, and learning support services.
- Helps with study skills and transition planning for higher education.
For people looking for education support, Disability Services Australia offers a range of resources tailored to your learning needs.
8. Improved Life Choices (Plan Management)
- Covers Plan Management services to assist with financial tracking.
- Helps participants make informed spending decisions.
- Helps support compliance with NDIS financial requirements.
An NDIS-registered community support provider can offer financial guidance to help you make the most of your funding.
9. Improved Daily Living
- Funds therapy, training, and skill-building programs.
- Covers occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physiotherapy.
- Includes independent living skills training (e.g., budgeting, cooking, transportation).
This category is designed to help participants develop the skills needed to live independently.
Making the Most of Your Capacity Building Budget
To maximise the benefits:
- Identify personal goals – Define what you want to achieve.
- Work with a team providing support coordination in Sydney – Ensure you’re using the best services for your needs.
- Stay engaged – Actively participate in programs to build real-world skills.
- Review progress regularly – Adjust supports if needed to stay on track.
With Capacity Building Supports, participants can:
- Unlock new possibilities
- Gain confidence
- Build a future that aligns with their aspirations
Final Thoughts
Capacity Building Supports can offer participants the means to help develop their abilities, self-assurance, and independence.
You can help maximise your Plan and build a support network that genuinely improves your quality of life by being aware of how each category operates and coordinating it with your own objectives.
If you need help managing your NDIS plan, an NDIS-registered community support provider can help ensure you get the most out of your funding.
Need Help Managing Your NDIS Plan?
Talk to an NDIS registered provider to simplify the process and receive expert guidance.
