Can I use Core Supports to pay for a carer who is also a family member?

In limited circumstances, yes. The NDIS does allow family members to be paid as support workers, but only where it is demonstrated that this arrangement is necessary and appropriate, and where no other suitable workers are available. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is more commonly approved in remote areas…

What happens to Core Supports funding I do not spend before my plan ends?

Under most plan arrangements, unspent Core Supports funds are returned to the NDIS at the end of the plan period and do not roll over. This is why consistently low spending can negatively affect future plans, as it may be interpreted as evidence that funding levels were higher than needed. If you are consistently…

Can I change my support worker without losing my Core Supports funding?

Yes. Your Core Supports funding is yours as a participant, not tied to any particular provider or worker. You can end a service agreement with one provider and begin with another, subject to the notice terms in your service agreement. There is no NDIS approval required to change providers, though if you are…

My plan says I have a stated support for a specific provider. Does this mean I cannot use anyone else?

A stated support in your plan specifies that a particular type of support must be delivered by a specific provider or in a specific way. This is different from the general flexibility that applies to most Core Supports. If you want to change a stated support, you typically need a plan review or variation rather than…

How do I get more Core Supports if my needs increase significantly?

You can request an unscheduled plan review, also called a change of circumstances review, if your support needs have increased significantly due to a change in your disability, health condition, or living situation. You will need evidence supporting the increased need, ideally including a functional capacity assessment…

NDIS Core Supports & Daily Living: Full Guide

Updated 15 Aug 2026 · reviewed by Prakash Bartaula, Founder, Novida

NDIS Core Supports fund the everyday assistance Australians with disability need to live, participate, and connect with their communities. This guide covers…

Frequently asked questions

Can I use Core Supports to pay for a carer who is also a family member?: In limited circumstances, yes. The NDIS does allow family members to be paid as support workers, but only where it is demonstrated that this arrangement is necessary and appropriate, and where no other suitable workers are available. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is more commonly approved in remote areas…
What happens to Core Supports funding I do not spend before my plan ends?: Under most plan arrangements, unspent Core Supports funds are returned to the NDIS at the end of the plan period and do not roll over. This is why consistently low spending can negatively affect future plans, as it may be interpreted as evidence that funding levels were higher than needed. If you are consistently…
Can I change my support worker without losing my Core Supports funding?: Yes. Your Core Supports funding is yours as a participant, not tied to any particular provider or worker. You can end a service agreement with one provider and begin with another, subject to the notice terms in your service agreement. There is no NDIS approval required to change providers, though if you are…
My plan says I have a stated support for a specific provider. Does this mean I cannot use anyone else?: A stated support in your plan specifies that a particular type of support must be delivered by a specific provider or in a specific way. This is different from the general flexibility that applies to most Core Supports. If you want to change a stated support, you typically need a plan review or variation rather than…
How do I get more Core Supports if my needs increase significantly?: You can request an unscheduled plan review, also called a change of circumstances review, if your support needs have increased significantly due to a change in your disability, health condition, or living situation. You will need evidence supporting the increased need, ideally including a functional capacity assessment…