At CPSN, we understand that the NDIS can sometimes be a little confusing to navigate as it has its own language with certain very specific acronyms and terminology. To help, we've taken some of the common jargon found in NDIS plans and explained what they actually mean – no translation required. Whether you’re just starting your NDIS journey or you’re deep into your plan, this guide breaks down the "lingo" into plain language.
The first NDIS interpretation you will need to learn about are the terms in your plan.
In a typical NDIS plan, there are three (3) funding types: Core Supports, Capacity Building Supports and Capital Supports:
Core Supports
Core supports are your everyday essentials, the flexible part of your NDIS plan designed to help you manage daily living. These supports cover assistance with things like personal care, community access, transport, and consumables (such as continence aids or low-cost Assistive Technology).
Core funding can be used for the following Individual Supports at CPSN:
- Personal Care
- High Intensity/Complex Supports
- Engaging in community
- Help around the house
- Specialist Nursing Services
- Transport
Why it matters:
These supports are often interchangeable across Support Budgets, which means you have more choice in how you spend them, depending on your needs.
Capacity Building Supports
Now you have the building blocks of your core supports in place. Next up is Capacity Building Supports. They are about building up your independence and improving your quality of life. This category includes funding for therapies (like Occupational Therapy or Speech Therapy), and building skills that help you. work towards your long-term goals.
At CPSN we offer Nursing under Capacity Building Supports.
Why it matters:
Unlike Core supports, this funding is more structured. Each budget must be used for its intended purpose. But it’s all aimed at helping you thrive and develop.
Capital Supports
This category is for more specialised disability-related equipment, such as orthotics or new wheelchairs. If core is the building block, these are the tools that enable you to live your best life, on your terms. These items are typically one-off or infrequent purchases that support your unique physical or functional needs.
Why it matters:
This category often requires quotes, reports, and NDIA approval. CPSN can provide Support Coordination reports for capital supports. These give you the tools to live safely, independently, and on your own terms.
Currently, some NDIS plans are changing due to the introduction of new funding periods, making plans, and budgets even more complex to follow. This also results in less flexibility in plan categories mentioned above.
If you would like us to cover other topics in this series, or have a further suggestion, please reach out to the team
At CPSN, we believe that the NDIS should be empowering, not confusing. We're here to help.
If you have any questions about your plan or how CPSN can support you, call us on 9478 1001 or submit an enquiry here.
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