09 Feb 2026

When Care and Money Come Together: Supporting Someone with Disability

Managing money is something most families think about every day. But when disability is part of your life — whether you’re a parent, carer, sibling, or guardian — finances can feel more complicated, more emotional, and sometimes overwhelming. 

Between therapy costs, support workers, transport, equipment, and everyday living expenses, many families worry about how to make everything stretch — while still thinking about the future. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. 

This piece is designed to support families with practical, realistic reflections about money and care — without jargon, pressure, or unrealistic expectations. Just helpful information, one step at a time. 

This isn’t a financial manual or a checklist — just a supportive starting point for families navigating money alongside care. 

Why Financial Wellbeing Matters for Families and Disability 

Financial wellbeing isn’t about being wealthy or having everything perfectly planned. It’s about feeling a bit more secure, having choices, and knowing you can manage today while preparing for what’s ahead. 

For families supporting someone with disability, financial wellbeing can help with: 

  • Reducing stress and uncertainty 

  • Planning for changing support and care needs 

  • Making better use of NDIS funding and other supports 

  • Protecting your loved one’s independence over time 

Even small steps — like understanding your options or reviewing your supports — can make a meaningful difference. 

Understanding the Extra Costs of Disability 

Many families discover that disability brings costs they didn’t expect, or didn’t plan for early on. These can include: 

  • Therapy or allied health gap fees 

  • Transport to appointments, programs, or work 

  • Assistive technology or equipment 

  • Home or vehicle modifications 

  • Reduced work hours or lost income for carers 

Acknowledging these costs isn’t about focusing on the negative. It’s about planning realistically and recognising the extra load many families carry — financially and emotionally. 

A Simple Budgeting Approach That Doesn’t Overwhelm 

Instead of complex spreadsheets, try grouping expenses into three clear categories: 

  • Everyday living – rent or mortgage, groceries, utilities 

  • Disability-related costs – supports, therapies, equipment, transport 

  • Future needs – emergency buffer, savings, longer-term planning 

This approach keeps things clear, flexible, and manageable — especially during busy or stressful periods. 

Some families also find it helpful to look at general money guidance designed for everyday situations. Government resources like MoneySmart from the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) offer simple tools and explanations — often used just as a guide, rather than a plan to follow exactly. 

Making the Most of NDIS Funding 

If your family member is an NDIS participant, their plan plays a big role in financial wellbeing — not just in funding supports, but in reducing pressure on families. 

Helpful questions to reflect on include: 

  • Is the funding being used in a way that truly supports daily life and goals? 

  • Are there supports that could reduce burnout for parents or carers? 

  • Do you clearly understand what can — and can’t — be claimed? 

Support coordinators and plan managers can be invaluable here, especially when plans change or needs evolve. Getting the right help can prevent funding from being underused — or stress from building up unnecessarily. 

If you ever want to check something independently, the NDIS website has clear, plain-language information about how plans work and what funding can be used for. Many families use it simply as a reference point when questions come up. 

Employment, Income, and Financial Independence 

Employment can be an important part of financial wellbeing for people with disability — not just for income, but for confidence, routine, and independence. 

Depending on the individual, options may include: 

  • Open employment with reasonable workplace adjustments 

  • Supported employment environments 

  • Flexible, part-time, or casual work that suits energy levels and health needs 

Even a small, consistent income can contribute to long-term financial security and personal wellbeing.  

Thinking Ahead: Planning for the Future 

Many families worry about the future — especially what will happen when parents or primary carers are no longer able to provide the same level of support. 

Future planning doesn’t need to happen all at once. Some families start by: 

  • Setting aside small, regular savings where possible 

  • Learning about options like special disability trusts 

  • Speaking with a financial counsellor or planner who understands disability 

For those who prefer to read at their own pace, Services Australia and Carers Australia both provide information about future planning, payments, and carer supports. Many families dip into these resources only when circumstances change, rather than all at once. 

All Together Now: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone 

Money conversations can feel heavy, especially when you’re already juggling care, appointments, work, and family life. Reaching out for support isn’t a sign of failure — it’s a sign of strength. 

At every stage of the journey, financial wellbeing is easier when it’s shared — between families, support networks, and trusted professionals. When everyone works together, the load feels lighter, decisions feel clearer, and families feel less alone. 

Sometimes that support comes from people. Other times, it’s simply knowing where reliable information lives when you need it. 

That’s what All Together Now is really about: continuity, shared responsibility, and knowing there’s support around you — not just for today, but for the long term. 

Further Reading