Introduction
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to provide choice and control to people with disability. But simply having a plan isn’t enough—it’s how you use it that truly counts. Every year, thousands of participants leave plan funding unspent, or worse, don’t receive the supports they’re entitled to. This article will guide you through how to maximise your NDIS funding, explaining what each support category means, how to set clear goals, how to track your budget, and how Careable helps participants in Melbourne use their funding with confidence and impact.
Understanding Your NDIS Budget
Your NDIS plan is broken into three main budget categories, each serving a different purpose. Understanding what each budget can (and can’t) be used for is key to maximising your funding:
- Core Supports
Covers everyday activities like personal care, community participation, transport, and consumables. This is the most flexible budget and can be moved across support items as long as it meets plan goals.
- Capacity Building
Funds services that help build independence and skills. This includes therapy, employment support, life skills training, and support coordination. It’s usually fixed and can’t be moved between categories.
- Capital Supports
Covers physical investments like assistive technology (wheelchairs, software) or Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). This budget is highly structured and based on quotes or assessments.
Set Clear and Measurable Goals
Your goals shape your funding. If you’re vague—like saying “I want to be more independent”—you may miss out on valuable supports. Instead, be specific and outcome-focused. For example:
- ‘I want to cook meals independently within six months’
- ‘I aim to participate in weekly community outings’
- ‘I want to learn public transport navigation with support’
These types of goals allow planners to match you with appropriate funding, and allow your providers to document progress more effectively.
Use a Support Coordinator or Plan Manager
Many participants struggle to navigate the system on their own. Support Coordinators help you implement your plan, connect with providers, and troubleshoot problems. Plan Managers help you track and manage funding while providing financial advice. These roles are often funded in your plan and can unlock the full potential of your budget by ensuring nothing is left unused.
Track Your Budget Regularly
Don’t wait until the end of your plan to find out you underspent. Use tools like the myplace portal, Careable’s monthly statements, or budgeting apps to keep an eye on where your funds are going. Budget tracking can help you:
- Identify underused categories
- Request plan variations before funds run out
- Stay in control of your supports
Common Reasons for Underutilised Funding
If your funds are going unused, it’s not always your fault. Common issues include:
- Long provider waitlists
- Lack of understanding about what’s claimable
- Gaps in communication between planner and participant
- Goals not aligned with real needs
Working with a provider like Careable ensures these gaps are addressed early, helping you develop a realistic and goal-aligned plan from the start.
Be Proactive with Plan Reviews
Don’t wait until your plan is about to expire to think about reviews. Start gathering evidence months in advance. This includes progress reports from therapists, incident reports, daily living assessments, and usage summaries from Plan Managers. This evidence can help justify increased funding or shifts in budget categories.
How Careable Helps Participants Maximise Their Funding
Careable takes a proactive, person-centred approach to NDIS support. From the initial intake, we work with you to align services with your goals, ensuring every dollar is working for your progress. Our team supports participants with:
- Goal setting and plan review preparation
- Coordination of community, SIL, and therapy supports
- Regular feedback on budget usage and future planning
- Transparent service agreements and invoicing
We’re not just a service provider—we’re a trusted partner in your NDIS journey.
Participant Success Story: Michael’s Budget Turnaround
Michael, a 25-year-old participant with autism and anxiety, had $6,000 in unused therapy funding at the end of his first plan. After switching to Careable, our team helped him set clearer social and independence goals. We connected him with a psychologist and OT aligned with his interests, and created a 6-month action plan. In his next review, Michael secured increased funding and improved his daily functioning dramatically.
Key Takeaways to Maximise Your Funding
- Understand your plan categories and what they fund
- Set specific, measurable goals during planning meetings
- Use Support Coordinators and Plan Managers for expert guidance
- Monitor your spending regularly to avoid underspending
- Collect evidence early for upcoming plan reviews
Conclusion
NDIS funding is a powerful tool—but only when used with intention. With the right supports and clear strategy, participants can transform funding into real outcomes. At Careable, we believe every participant deserves to feel confident, supported, and in control. Whether you’re navigating your first plan or preparing for a review, we’re here to ensure your funding delivers what matters most: a better quality of life.
To speak with a Careable team member about making the most of your NDIS plan, call 1300 DECIDE or email cx@careable.com.au.
