Introduction

If you're an NDIS participant, a family member, or a provider, you’ve probably asked: “Do NDIS funds expire if we don’t use them?” It’s a simple question—but the answer has big implications.

The short version? Yes—NDIS funding does expire at the end of a plan. Unused funds do not carry over.

Let’s dive into the details of why this happens, how to track your funding, and what you can do to avoid losing valuable support.

🕒 Do NDIS Funds Expire?

Yes. When an NDIS plan reaches its end date, any unused funds are forfeited.

This applies to all budgets—Core Supports, Capacity Building, and Capital Supports—unless the plan is extended.

Relevant Source: NDIS Operational Guidelines – Budget Flexibility & Using Your Plan

NDIS Act 2013 – Section 37 (review of participant’s plan)

🔁 Can Funds Roll Over?

No—NDIS plans are time-limited agreements. They are not savings accounts.

Each plan is designed to:

• Meet your needs for a set period
• Be reviewed and reassessed based on outcomes
• Avoid “banking” funds unnecessarily

That means unspent funds typically don’t roll into your next plan—even if you underspend for valid reasons.

🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Avoid Losing NDIS Funds

Step 1: Know Your Plan Start and End Dates

This is printed on your NDIS plan. Set a reminder at least 12 weeks before it ends so you can start planning.

Step 2: Regularly Track Your Budgets

You can do this:

• Through the myplace portal
• With your plan manager
• By using budgeting tools or mobile apps

Providers should also communicate budget updates to participants regularly—especially if support usage is lower than expected.

Step 3: Use a Support Coordinator or Plan Manager

These professionals help you:

• Spend your budget efficiently
• Connect with services
• Avoid under- or overspending

Even if you're self-managed, occasional plan reviews can be helpful.

Step 4: Reallocate Funds Within Categories (Where Allowed)

Some categories (like Core Supports) allow flexibility. If you’re not using funds in one area, you may be able to:

• Increase hours of in-home support
• Add community access supports
• Use funds for low-cost assistive technology

Check with your plan manager or LAC before making changes.

Step 5: Review Spending at the 6-Month Mark

If you're halfway through your plan and only spent 10–30% of your budget, it's a red flag. Review:

• Are you missing out on services?
• Are your providers delivering less than agreed?
• Do you need more support using your funds?

💸 Why Underspending Can Be a Problem

1. Funds expire and are unrecoverable.
2. Future plans may be reduced. The NDIA may assume you don’t need the full amount.
3. You miss out on support that could’ve improved your quality of life.

Example:

If you’re funded for 2 hours/week of support coordination but only use 30%, future plans may drop it entirely.

🧠 Real-World Case Study: “Alex, 34, Support Coordination Underspend”

Alex had a 12-month plan with 20 hours of support coordination. But he was unsure how to engage his coordinator and used only 3 hours.

At review, the NDIA removed the funding—claiming it “wasn’t used.” Alex had no evidence to support a higher allocation.

With help from Assist Providers, his next review included:

• A usage audit
• Written rationale for why the hours weren’t used
• A new provider with a proactive approach

Result: Support coordination was reinstated.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Assuming funds will roll over

🚫 Not monitoring usage until the last month

🚫 Failing to review provider invoices

🚫 Avoiding services out of fear of “wasting” money

🧰 How Assist Providers Can Help

At Assist Providers, we help NDIS providers and participants get the most from every plan. Our services include:

✅ Support coordination training

✅ Plan usage audits and reporting templates

✅ Review preparation assistance

✅ Participant education on fund tracking

Don’t leave funding on the table—use it with purpose.

✅ Final Thoughts

NDIS funds are designed to be used—not saved. Every dollar in your plan is a step toward achieving your goals. By staying on top of your plan, tracking your usage, and reaching out for help, you’ll make sure nothing goes to waste.

NDIS success isn’t just about what you’re funded for—it’s about how you use it.