Understanding Informal Supports in the NDIS: What they are, why they matter, and how they fit alongside funded supports

When people talk about NDIS supports, they usually mean paid services like support workers, therapists, or group programs.

But for many participants, the most consistent support comes from the people already in their lives.

These are called informal supports.

Understanding informal supports in the NDIS is essential. They influence planning decisions, funding approvals, and how sustainable a support network truly is.

What Are Informal Supports in the NDIS?

In the NDIS, informal supports are unpaid help provided by family members, friends, neighbours, or community connections.

They are not funded through an NDIS plan and are not employed providers.

Examples of informal supports include:

• A parent helping with daily routines

• A sibling practising conversation or social skills

• A friend providing transport or companionship

• A neighbour checking in or offering practical help

• A partner assisting with paperwork or appointments

The NDIS does not aim to replace informal supports. Instead, it is designed to complement them and reduce pressure where needed.

Informal Supports vs Formal Supports in the NDIS

Understanding the difference matters.

Informal supports NDIS

• Family, friends, neighbours

• Unpaid and relationship-based

• Flexible, but often emotionally demanding

Formal supports NDIS

• Paid support workers and providers

• Funded through an NDIS plan

• Structured, goal-focused and accountable

When developing a plan, the NDIA considers both. They assess what informal supports exist and whether they are reasonable and sustainable.

The NDIS is not designed to assume families can provide unlimited care.

Why Informal Supports Matter in NDIS Planning

When discussing informal supports NDIS planners often ask:

• Who currently provides support?

• How often do they help?

• What tasks do they assist with?

• Is this arrangement sustainable long term?

Being honest is critical.

If informal supports are stretched, under strain, ageing, unwell, or managing complex care needs, this must be clearly communicated.

Funded supports exist to protect relationships and prevent burnout, not just to fill gaps.

When Informal Supports Become Unsustainable

Informal supports can quietly shift from helpful to overwhelming.

Warning signs include:

• Carer exhaustion

• Emotional strain within relationships

• One family member carrying the majority of responsibility

• Reduced independence for the participant

• Limited social connection outside the family

When this happens, introducing funded 1:1 support or structured group programs can restore balance.

The goal is sustainability, not dependence.

How Informal Supports Work Alongside Group Programs

NDIS group programs can play a powerful role in balancing informal supports.

For example:

• Teens attending structured social groups build confidence outside the family

• Adults participating in day programs develop routine and peer connection

• Shared supports reduce reliance on one family member for social interaction

Group programs do not replace informal supports. They strengthen them by allowing space, independence and skill development.

A participant who builds confidence in a structured group often returns home more regulated and capable.

Informal Supports for Teens

As children grow into teenagers, expectations shift.

Parents remain vital informal supports, but young people also need opportunities to:

• Build peer relationships

• Practise independence

• Develop identity outside the family

• Learn decision-making in supported environments

Structured NDIS group supports can allow teens to grow while parents step back from being the sole source of guidance.

This transition is often essential for long-term independence.

Informal Supports for Adults

Informal supports continue into adulthood.

Many adults rely on:

• Family members for paperwork and planning

• Friends for social connection

• Partners for daily routine reminders

However, if informal supports become essential for daily functioning, funded supports may be appropriate to prevent burnout and protect relationships.

Independence should not rely entirely on one unpaid person.

Can the NDIS Pay Family Members as Informal Supports?

In most cases, the NDIS does not pay family members to provide support.

There are limited exceptions, which may apply in circumstances such as:

• Serious risk to the participant

• Cultural or language considerations

• Complex medical or behavioural needs

These situations require individual assessment and approval.

Generally, the NDIS expects informal supports to remain informal.

What If Informal Supports Change?

Informal supports can change due to illness, ageing, employment changes, relocation, or family breakdown.

If informal supports reduce or become unsustainable, this can impact the participant’s safety, independence, and wellbeing.

In these situations, it may be appropriate to notify the NDIA and request a review of the plan.

You can learn more about how to report a change in circumstances directly through the NDIS website here: Change in circumstances | NDIS

A reduction in informal supports is a legitimate reason for reviewing funded supports, particularly where carer burnout or increased complexity is involved.

You can also reach out to your LAC or Support Coordinator.

Final Thoughts on Informal Supports NDIS

Informal supports are incredibly valuable.

But they should not carry everything.

The NDIS works best when informal supports and funded supports operate together. The right balance protects relationships, builds independence and creates sustainable long-term outcomes.

Whether through 1:1 support, structured group programs, or community participation, funded supports should strengthen the whole system around a participant, not replace it.

If you would like to explore how informal and formal supports can work together in a practical way:

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