The Capital Support Budget is a type of NDIS support fund that is utilised for assistive technology and home-based modifications. We will explain that in a bit more detail. However, it is important to understand, what is the purpose and how are these funds applied in an individual’s NDIS plan.

What is a Capital Support Budget?

The NDIS provides three kinds of support budgets to participants. They are core support, capacity building and capital support. These three budgets are utilised for every different aspect of an individual’s life. Highly supporting NDIS participants to bring independence and improved living conditions.

The capital support budget consists of funds that are used for investing in home modifications and assistive technology such as scooters, ramps, and walking aids. These mobility-based products support individuals to carry their day to day tasks as easily as possible. However, the capital support funds are allocated at the initial stages of the planning phase with NDIS. This means that the budget is not as flexible as compared to your core support budget.

Let’s understand in detail, the two subcategories in capital support and how an NDIS participant can utilise it for their own benefits.

Where can the budget be utilised?

There are two types of subcategories:

 Assistive Technology

This category is allocated for funds that support individuals with equipment that can provide comfortable support in their day to day activities. For example, walking aids or even bathroom-based chairs that support them in their daily lives. Even with assistive technology, there are subcategories that NDIS provides ranging from the basic to complex technology requirements.

• Level 1: Basic assistive technology

Any technology-based items that are considered “simple”, “safe to use” and “low-cost” is considered in level one. This specific category does not require any NDIS assessment. Moreover, examples include anti-slip bath mats, walking sticks, large print labels for easier reading visibility. However, items such as weighted blankets, poles, bedrails and covers are classified in level three or four.

• Level 2: Standard assistive technology

The technology equipment that supports you with moving around and performing your basic tasks at home is classified under this category.

Some basic examples under this category include:

• Simple toileting and bathing devices such as shower chairs and bath boards.
• Orthotics and Prosthetics
• Vision-based technology such as electronic magnifiers and smartphone apps.
• Transfer based equipment such as slide boards and sheets

Home Modifications

Any changes required by NDIS participants in their residence or home is classified as a modification. Some of the basic examples would be wider doorways and building ramps.

Please note, any kind of support-based equipment that is complex and may be perceived as dangerous is classified under level three and four of assistive technology.

• Level 3: Specialised assistive technology

This category is classified by NDIS as a type of assistive support equipment and is required by individuals at their home, work or educational premises.

Examples include:

• Powered mattresses
• Bed poles or sticks
• Equipment to support in lifting and moving
• Powered wheelchairs

• Level 4: Complex Assistive Technology

This category involves systems that help you with complex needs that are required to make modifications at home.

Here are some of the basic examples that can help you categorize level 4 based equipment:

• High-level sleep systems or cushions
• Advanced prosthetics
• Electronic equipment for individuals with a vision-based disability
• Equipment to support you with speech and communication.

 

What about the maintenance of assistive technology-based equipment?

The NDIS plan aims to not only support participants by providing assistive equipment but also supporting them with financial funds to maintain them. For any minor repairs, such as damage in the wheelchair type, participants can use their “Adaptive Equipment Budget”.  Also, for any major repairs such as damaged prosthetics, individuals can use their “Assistive Technology Budget”

We also advise you to speak with your Local Area Coordinator or Support coordinator for further information or any queries.  

You can also contact NDIS on 1800 800 110 OR speak to our friendly staff at Care Plan Management and they can connect with one of our partnered Assistive technology assessors.

 *Please note, we are a registered NDIS provider and do not charge any fees for consultation for your plan management.

Our staff members are always happy to assist you with the right contact or requirement for your queries. You can also contact us on 08 7117 1409 or send us an email at admin@careplanmanagement.com.au 

 Source: Ndis.gov.au. 2021