Understanding funding
Understanding Funding Periods
Funding periods determine when portions of your funding become available, and how long that funding needs to last.
Funding is released over time
Part of your funding may become available at regular intervals.
The total does not change
Funding periods affect when funding is available, not the total approved amount.
Each component may differ
Different parts of your plan may have different funding periods.
Plain language guide
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What is a funding period?
The period of time during which part of your NDIS funding is available for use. Newer plans may divide the total funding for each component into separate periods — often three months, though the period and amount may differ depending on your circumstances.
What is a funding component?
Your total funding may be divided into Core Supports, Capacity Building Supports, Capital Supports and Recurring Supports. Each may have its own amount and its own funding periods.
How they work
At the start of a funding period, the amount assigned to that period becomes available. You can spend up to the amount currently available. Funding assigned to a later period is not yet available.
The intent is to help funding last across the full length of the plan.
They do not reduce your total funding
Funding periods change when parts of the funding become available, not how much you have been approved for overall.
Managing supports within a period
- Check the amount available in the current period
- Estimate the cost of supports for the full period
- Include weekends and public holidays where relevant
- Allow for agreed travel and cancellation charges
- Monitor provider claims and invoices
- Review spending regularly
- Raise concerns early if the funding may not last
If the available amount is not enough
Do not assume funding from a future period can be used early. Contact your my NDIS contact if your circumstances have changed, essential supports cannot continue safely, the funding period does not reflect your needs, you believe an error has occurred, or you need help understanding your plan.
Your Plan Manager or Support Coordinator may help you understand your spending, but only the NDIA can change the funding arrangements in your plan.
SCL Support Services
What SCL can help with
SCL can provide:
- Quotes
- Estimated service costs
- Current support schedules
- Invoices and service records
- Information about agreed charges
- Notice if we become aware of a funding concern
You remain responsible for confirming sufficient funding is available for the supports you request.
Official information
This page explains things in plain language. The NDIS is the authority on the rules, and they change. Check the official pages for the current position.
Last checked: August 2026
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