Understanding the NDIS: A Simple Guide for Families
If you’re new to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. There are a lot of terms, funding categories, and processes to wrap your head around — and let’s be real, the system isn’t exactly known for being simple.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
At George Gray Centre (GGC), we help people navigate the NDIS every day. Whether you’re applying for the first time, need guidance on what to ask for, or just want to make sure you're getting the most from your plan, we’ve got your back.
This guide covers the most common NDIS questions we hear from families — so grab a coffee, take a deep breath, and let’s make sense of it together.
What is the NDIS?
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a government-funded program that provides support for Australians with disabilities, their families, and carers.
Think of it as a funding package tailored to your needs, helping you access services that support your independence, well-being, and quality of life.
What it can cover:
· Daily living support – Help with cooking, cleaning, personal care.
· Therapies & health services – Speech therapy, physiotherapy, counselling.
· Assistive technology – Wheelchairs, communication devices, hearing aids.
· Social & community participation – Joining activities, programs, or getting out and about.
· Employment support – Training, job coaching, or supported employment.
The key thing to remember? The NDIS is designed to give you choice and control over your supports — so you get what you actually need, not just what’s available.
Who Can Help Me Get Onto the NDIS?
Applying for the NDIS can feel like jumping through hoops, but you don’t have to do it alone.
Here’s who can help:
· Your GP or Specialist – They can provide medical evidence for your application.
· Local Area Coordinators (LACs) – These NDIS reps help guide you through the process.
· Support Coordinators – If you get funding for one, they can help set up and manage your supports.
· The GGC Team – We’re here to answer questions, help with paperwork, and connect you with services.
💡 Need help? Give us a call — we’ll walk you through it!
What Should I Ask for in My NDIS Plan?
Your first NDIS planning meeting is where you lay out what support you need. This is your chance to think big and ask for services that will make a real difference in your life.
Things to consider before your meeting:
💡 What support do I need every day? (Personal care, transport, meal prep)
💡 Do I need therapy? (Physio, speech therapy, OT, mental health support)
💡 What about social activities? (Would you benefit from community programs or group activities)
💡 Do I need assistive technology? (Mobility aids, home modifications)
💡 What are my goals? (Would job coaching, skill development, or further education help)
✨ Pro tip: Write down a list of daily challenges and long-term goals before your meeting — this makes it easier to explain what you need and why.
🚨 And remember: If something isn’t included in your plan but you really need it, you can request a plan review.nn
I Have My Plan… Now What?
Once your NDIS plan is approved, you can finally start using it! But before you jump in, it’s important to understand what your funding covers and how to manage it. Get to Know Your Funding Categories
Your plan is split into three main funding categories, each designed for different types of support. Think of them like buckets of money, each with a specific purpose.
✅ Core Supports – Everyday Help (And the Most Flexible Bucket!)
💡 What it can cover:
A support worker to help with personal care, cooking, or cleaning.
Funding for social activities, like joining a community group or program..
Transport assistance to get to appointments or events.
✨ Good to know: This bucket is super flexible — so if you need more help at home one week and more social outings the next, you can usually move things around to suit your needs.
✅ Capacity Building – Growing Skills & Independence
💡 What it can cover:
Therapies like speech therapy or physiotherapy to help you build skills.
Support to learn how to manage money, travel independently, or get job-ready.
Coaching or mentoring to help you reach personal or work goals.
🚨 Heads up: Unlike Core Supports, this funding isn’t as flexible — it has to be spent on the specific services outlined in your plan.
✅ Capital Supports – Big-Ticket Items & Home Modifications
💡 What it can cover:
A wheelchair or walker
A modified bed, hoist, or communication device
Home modifications like ramps or accessible bathrooms
🚨 Important to know: Capital Supports needs approval before purchases — you can’t just buy something and claim it later.
Common Questions About Spending Your NDIS Funding
Is My NDIS Plan My Money?
Not exactly! It’s funding allocated for your disability support needs—you can’t withdraw it like a bank account. Instead, it pays for services and support providers.
Can I Use My Funding for Something Else?
It depends!
✔ Core Supports? Usually flexible! You might be able to swap services within this category.
❌ Capacity Building or Capital Supports? Not flexible. You must use these funds for their intended purpose.
💡 If you’re unsure, ask us! We can help you figure out what’s allowed.
What Happens if I Spend Too Much… or Not Enough?
🛑 Overspent? You might run out of funds before your plan renewal—so plan carefully!
💰 Underspent? Unused funding doesn’t roll over — so make sure you’re getting the support you need.
🚨 Need help budgeting your NDIS funds? We can guide you!
Let’s Make Your NDIS Plan Work for You!
The NDIS can be life-changing — but only if you know how to use it. Whether you need help applying, understanding your plan, or finding the right services, GGC is here for you.