Complete NDIS Plan Management Guide
Master the three NDIS plan management options - Self-Managed, Plan Managed, and NDIA Managed. Compare benefits, responsibilities, and choose the right approach for your situation.
How You Manage Your Plan Affects Everything
Your plan management choice determines your level of control, administrative responsibilities, provider options, and flexibility. Choose the approach that matches your preferences and capabilities.
Three Management Options
NDIS offers three ways to manage your plan, each with different levels of control, flexibility, and responsibility. You can even mix different approaches for different budget categories.
It's About Balance
The best choice balances your desire for control with your capacity for administration. You can always change your management approach if your needs or circumstances change.
Your choice: Each management option offers different benefits - choose what works best for your lifestyle and preferences.
Understanding Each Management Option
Learn the details of each management approach to make an informed decision about what's right for you.
Self-Managed
You Control Everything
You manage all aspects of your NDIS funding, including hiring support workers, paying invoices, keeping records, and claiming reimbursements.
Best For:
People who want maximum control and have time/skills for administration
Advantages
Considerations
Your Responsibilities:
Success Tips:
• Use accounting software or apps to track expenses
• Keep all receipts and maintain good records
• Understand your responsibilities as an employer
• Consider professional advice for complex situations
• Join self-managed participant support groups
Plan Managed
Professional Support with Flexibility
A registered plan manager handles the administrative tasks while you retain choice and control over your supports and providers.
Best For:
People who want flexibility with professional administrative support
Advantages
Considerations
Your Responsibilities:
Success Tips:
• Choose an experienced, responsive plan manager
• Establish clear communication preferences
• Review monthly statements and reports
• Ask questions about budget and spending
• Maintain some involvement in financial oversight
NDIA Managed
NDIS Handles Administration
The NDIS pays your providers directly. You choose from registered providers and pre-approved supports with minimal administrative responsibility.
Best For:
People who want simplicity and don't need unregistered providers
Advantages
Considerations
Your Responsibilities:
Success Tips:
• Research registered providers in your area
• Understand the service request process
• Keep records of service satisfaction
• Plan ahead for any service changes needed
• Know how to contact NDIS for support
Hybrid Management: Best of Both Worlds
You can use different management types for different budget categories. This hybrid approach gives you control where you want it and simplicity where you need it.
Core Support: Plan Managed + Capital Support: NDIA Managed
Why This Works:
Flexibility for daily supports with NDIS oversight for expensive equipment
Benefits:
Example:
Personal care and transport plan managed, assistive technology NDIA managed
Core Support: Self-Managed + Capacity Building: Plan Managed
Why This Works:
Maximum control over daily supports with professional help for goal-focused services
Benefits:
Example:
Personal care self-managed, therapy and skill development plan managed
All Categories: Plan Managed
Why This Works:
Consistent professional management across all funding types
Benefits:
Example:
Full plan management for comprehensive professional support
How to Choose the Right Management Option
Consider these key factors to determine which management approach aligns best with your needs and preferences.
Ask Yourself:
• Do you have time for administrative tasks?
• Are you comfortable with financial management?
• Do you understand employment and legal requirements?
• Are you organized with record keeping?
Self-Managed
Need significant time and administrative skills
Plan Managed
Minimal time required, professional handles admin
NDIA Managed
Almost no time or skills required
Ask Yourself:
• Do you want to hire family members as workers?
• Do you need unregistered service providers?
• Do you want direct relationships with providers?
• Are you satisfied with registered providers?
Self-Managed
Access to any provider, including family members
Plan Managed
Access to registered and unregistered providers
NDIA Managed
Limited to registered providers only
Ask Yourself:
• How important is direct control to you?
• Do you need flexible service arrangements?
• Do you want to negotiate prices and terms?
• Are you comfortable with standard arrangements?
Self-Managed
Maximum control and flexibility
Plan Managed
High flexibility with professional support
NDIA Managed
Standard arrangements with limited flexibility
Ask Yourself:
• Do you have complex or unique support needs?
• Do you need services at unusual times?
• Are your needs likely to change frequently?
• Do you need help with budgeting and planning?
Self-Managed
Best for unique or complex arrangements
Plan Managed
Good for changing needs with professional guidance
NDIA Managed
Suitable for standard, stable support needs
Plan Management Questions & Answers
Find answers to frequently asked questions about choosing and managing your NDIS plan management approach.
Optimize Your Entire NDIS Plan
Now that you understand plan management, learn how to maximize the value of your funding.
Need Help Choosing Plan Management?
Our experienced team can help you understand your options and choose the plan management approach that best fits your needs and lifestyle.
