How to Use Your NDIS Core Funding for Community Participation

If you’ve ever looked at your NDIS plan and wondered:

“Can I use my Core budget for this?”

You’re not alone. One of the most flexible — and most misunderstood — parts of the NDIS is Core Supports, especially when it comes to Social & Community Participation.

Let’s break it down in plain language so you can make the most of your plan (and have fun doing it!).

🧾 What Are Core Supports?

Core Supports are designed to help participants with everyday tasks and activities. It’s the most flexible category in your NDIS budget, and it can cover a wide range of needs, depending on your individual goals.

There are four Core categories:

1. Assistance with Daily Life – support with things like personal care, meal prep, or routines at home

2. Consumables – items such as continence aids, low-cost assistive tech, or even weighted blankets

3. Transport – support for getting to work, appointments, or community activities

4. Assistance with Social & Community Participation ← this is where the fun begins!

🧍‍♀️ What Is Community Participation?

Community Participation is all about getting involved in everyday life outside the home — in ways that build confidence, independence, and social connection.

Examples include:

• Joining a group program (like our Teens Social Group or Sunday Bowling & Social Group)

• 1:1 support to attend an event, go to the gym, explore a new hobby, or build life skills

• Going to classes or workshops (e.g. art, cooking, or dance)

• Attending social events like movie nights, community festivals, or NDIS day programs

• Getting transport to and from these activities

  
  

💡 Real-Life Example

Let’s say your teen joins our School Holiday Program.

• They attend 6 hours per day at a 1:2 support ratio.

• The support time is billed to your Core Supports – Assistance with Social & Community Participation and the full hourly rate is divided by 2.

• You also opt for transport to and from the Hub, which is also billed under Core

No extra approvals needed. No hidden costs. Just meaningful support and fun experiences.

✅ Do I Need Special Approval?

In most cases, no.

As long as the support:

• Matches the goals in your NDIS plan (e.g. “build confidence,” “increase community access,” or “improve independence”)

• Is delivered by a registered or suitable provider

• Fits within the NDIS Price Limits… then you’re good to go!

If you’re ever unsure, a quick chat with your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager can help clarify things.

🧠 Quick Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Core Budget

• Check your goals — Make sure they include social participation, life skills, or community involvement

• Talk to your provider — Ask how their programs can align with your goals

• Use a mix — You might use 1:1 support to build confidence, then transition into groups

• Track outcomes — Keeping notes or photos of progress can help in future plan reviews

🙋 Need Help Getting Started?

We can walk you through it. Whether you're new to the NDIS or just want to explore what's possible with your Core budget, our team can help you navigate it all — with no pressure, just friendly support.

💬 Reach out today

📍 Based on the Gold Coast, proudly supporting local teens and young adults