What is NDIS plan management and which option is right for me?

NDIS plan management determines how you pay for and manage your supports. There are three options, each with different levels of control and responsibility.

Agency-managed (NDIA-managed)

The NDIA manages your funding and pays providers directly.

Pros:

• No paperwork or invoicing
• The NDIA handles all payments
• Simple and hands-off

Cons:

• Least flexible — can only use NDIS-registered providers
• Less choice over who you work with
• Can't negotiate prices above the price guide

Plan-managed

A registered plan manager handles your payments and paperwork, but you choose your providers.

Pros:

• Can use both registered and unregistered providers
• Plan management is funded separately (at no cost to you)
• Someone else handles the invoicing and claims
• More provider choice than agency-managed

Cons:

• You need to find and work with a plan manager
• Some coordination required between you, your plan manager, and providers

Self-managed

You manage all your funding, pay providers yourself, and claim reimbursements from the NDIS.

Pros:

• Maximum flexibility and control
• Can use any provider (registered or unregistered)
• Can negotiate prices and service agreements
• Full visibility of your budget and spending

Cons:

• You handle all paperwork, invoicing, and claims
• You're responsible for keeping records for audits
• More time and effort required

How to choose

• No paperwork — choose agency-managed
• Provider choice without the admin — choose plan-managed
• Full control and flexibility — choose self-managed

You can also mix options — for example, self-manage some budgets and agency-manage others.

Can I change my plan management?

Yes. You can change your plan management option at your next plan review, or request an unscheduled review if your needs change.

For more help deciding, contact our team — we can help you weigh up the options.