The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides a framework to support Australians with disabilities, tailoring a range of funding categories to a participant's individual needs. In this blog post, we'll explore what Capital Supports are, the types of support available, and how they can benefit a participant.

What Are NDIS Capital Supports?

Capital Supports are used when purchasing long term assets that are designed to improve the living conditions, mobility, and accessibility of a participant. There are two main categories for these purchases: 

1. Assistive Technology (AT)
   
   Assistive Technology (AT) refers to a device or equipment that helps participants perform tasks they might need assistance with. This can range from aids such as modified cutlery, to more complex equipment like powered wheelchairs or devices to enhance and assist with communication.
   
   The goal of Assistive Technology is to promote independence, safety, and participation in daily activities. Here are some examples that may be funded under NDIS Capital Supports:
   
   
   • Mobility Equipment: Manual or powered wheelchairs, scooters, and walking aids.
   • Personal Care Equipment: Shower chairs, hoists, and specialised beds.
   • Communication Devices: Speech-generating devices, hearing aids, and Braille readers.
   • Home Safety Devices: Alarms, sensors, and adaptive switches.

Recent Updates to Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL): As of July 2024, the NDIS introduced changes to improve the accessibility and affordability of Assistive Technology. For mid-cost AT items, participants no longer need to provide quotes, although some evidence is still necessary to ensure the item meets the needs of the participant. 

For higher-cost items a quote and a professional assessment are required to ensure the Assistive Technology meets the participant's needs. In addition, a new Assistive Technology Code Guide has been released to help participants understand the available supports​, you can read more by clicking here. 

To learn more about the recent updates to the Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL) click here.  

1. Home Modifications.
   
   Home modifications refers to changes made to a participant's home to assist accessibility and safety. These modifications create a more accessible living environment that supports the participants' individual needs.
   
   Home modifications can vary depending on the participant's requirements and might include:
   
   

• Structural Changes: installation of ramps, widening doorways, and modifying bathrooms.
• Environmental Controls: Automated lighting, heating, and cooling systems.
• Safety Enhancements: Non-slip flooring, grab rails, and accessible kitchen adaptations.

Unlike other support categories, Capital Supports are more often than not a high-cost item, and can require tailored assessments and recommendations to ensure they meet the individual needs of each participant.

How to Access NDIS Capital Supports

The level of supports varies for each participant, based on their individual needs, and might require tailored planning. The steps below cover the process that might be involved in accessing these supports: 

1. Assessment and Planning: During your planning meeting, you should discuss your needs for Assistive technology or home modifications with your NDIS planner. This should include reports and assessments from your healthcare professionals, like your Occupational Therapist, or Physiotherapists, supporting the need for Assistive Technology. 
2. Approval and Funding: Once the need for capital supports has been confirmed in your planning meeting, your NDIS planner will determine the appropriate allocation of funds for your individual needs. The funding will then be included in your plan, showing the type of support that might be available to you, and the approved budget. 
3. Implementation: You will then work with your providers to receive or implement the capital supports specific to your plan and goals. 

Capital Supports provide long term benefits for participants, and can be a vital part of a participants plan, by offering long term support. In understanding the types of Capital Supports that might be available to you, and how to access them, you can make informed decisions and achieve your goals with choice and control.