Can I use my Capacity Building budget to pay a support worker?

Generally not. Support workers are funded through Core Supports. However, if a practitioner funded through Capacity Building is training a support worker to implement a specific therapy technique or behaviour support strategy, that professional time can be funded through Capacity Building.

What happens if I do not use all of my Capacity Building budget?

Unused Capacity Building funds do not carry over to a new plan. When your plan ends, any unspent Capacity Building budget is returned to the NDIA. This is a strong incentive to start using your Capacity Building supports promptly and to review your spending regularly so you do not lose access to funded supports at the…

Can I change my Capacity Building providers during my plan?

Yes. You have the right to change providers at any time, though many providers will ask for notice in a service agreement. If you are unhappy with a provider or your needs have changed, you can engage a different provider without needing a plan variation.

NDIS Capacity Building supports: what each category funds and how to maximise yours

Updated 30 May 2026 · reviewed by Prakash Bartaula, Founder, Novida

Capacity Building is the budget that changes your trajectory — but it is locked into categories and silently underspent in thousands of plans. Here is how to…

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my Capacity Building budget to pay a support worker?: Generally not. Support workers are funded through Core Supports. However, if a practitioner funded through Capacity Building is training a support worker to implement a specific therapy technique or behaviour support strategy, that professional time can be funded through Capacity Building.
What happens if I do not use all of my Capacity Building budget?: Unused Capacity Building funds do not carry over to a new plan. When your plan ends, any unspent Capacity Building budget is returned to the NDIA. This is a strong incentive to start using your Capacity Building supports promptly and to review your spending regularly so you do not lose access to funded supports at the…
Can I change my Capacity Building providers during my plan?: Yes. You have the right to change providers at any time, though many providers will ask for notice in a service agreement. If you are unhappy with a provider or your needs have changed, you can engage a different provider without needing a plan variation.