NDIS Core Supports Explained

If you've looked at an NDIS plan, you'll have seen the term "Core Supports." It's often the largest and most flexible part of a plan — but the wording can be confusing. Here's a plain-English guide to what it covers and how it relates to a support worker.

This is general information only. What your plan covers always depends on your individual circumstances and goals.

What are Core Supports?

Core Supports is funding intended to help with everyday activities and your current disability-related needs. For many participants it's the most flexible budget, and it's usually where support that helps with day-to-day life sits.

The four Core Support categories

• Assistance with Daily Life — help with everyday tasks and routines so you can live as independently as possible.
• Assistance with Social & Community Participation — support to take part in community, social and recreational activities.
• Consumables — everyday items you may need.
• Transport — help with getting around, where funded.

Where a support worker fits

Support with daily living, in-home help, social participation and community access commonly relates to the first two categories. Exactly how it's funded and arranged depends on your plan and how it's managed.

How flexible is it?

Core Supports is generally more flexible than other budgets — within reason, funding can often be used across the Core categories according to your needs. Your plan manager or support coordinator can confirm what applies to you.

The bottom line

Core Supports is usually where everyday, practical support lives. If you're wondering whether a support worker fits your plan, a quick conversation — with me, your plan manager, or your support coordinator — is the easiest way to find out.