NDIS plans group funding into different categories, and two of the most common — Core Supports and Capacity Building — get confused often. Here's the difference, without the jargon.
Core Supports: help with today
Core Supports fund the everyday assistance that helps you get through daily life — personal care, transport, consumables, and social or community participation. This is generally the most flexible category, and funding can often move between these support types as your needs shift.
Capacity Building: building toward tomorrow
Capacity Building funds skill-development and coaching aimed at increasing your independence over time — things like support coordination, therapy, or life skills training. Unlike Core Supports, this funding is generally locked to its specific purpose and can't be moved between categories.
Why the distinction matters
Understanding which category funds which service helps you plan your year realistically, and avoid running out of one type of support while funding sits unused in another. Your plan documents list each category clearly — if you're ever unsure, ask your provider or coordinator to walk you through it.
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