Understanding the NDIS
The NDIS funds disability supports for Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. Here's how it works — from your first eligibility check to getting the most out of your plan.
The NDIS in five steps
Most people start with eligibility. Already a participant? Jump to managing your plan.
Check your eligibility
You may be eligible if you have a permanent and significant disability, are under 65 when you apply, and live in Australia as a citizen or permanent resident.
Check eligibility →Submit an Access Request
You'll need supporting evidence from your treating professionals. The NDIA assesses your request and confirms whether you qualify.
Access Request form →Prepare for your planning meeting
Bring your goals, daily routines and current supports. A clear picture of your needs leads to a stronger plan.
Planning tips →Choose how to manage your plan
Self-managed, plan-managed or NDIA-managed — each has trade-offs. More than 66% of participants choose plan management.
See your options →Plan review and reassessment
Your plan is reviewed every 12–24 months. Prepare evidence of what your current plan has and hasn't covered to support a strong outcome at review.
Plan review guide →Three ways to manage your plan
You can mix and match — for example, plan-manage your therapies but self-manage your transport. There's no single right answer.
Lowest admin, least flexibility
The NDIA pays providers on your behalf. You can only use NDIS-registered providers.
- No paperwork for you
- Registered providers only
- NDIA pricing applies
All providers, no extra cost
A plan manager pays your invoices and tracks your budget. Funded separately — doesn't reduce your plan.
- Any provider, registered or not
- No cost to you
- Real-time budget tracking
Maximum control, more admin
You pay providers directly and claim back from the NDIA. Maximum flexibility — including non-registered providers.
- Most freedom and choice
- You hold the records
- You handle the claims
Why 66% of participants choose plan management
It's free, it removes paperwork, and it opens up a wider pool of providers — all without touching your therapy or support worker budgets.
- Free~$104.45/month funded by the NDIA separately, doesn't reduce your other supports
- Any providerUse registered or unregistered providers, including sole traders
- No invoicingProviders send invoices directly to your plan manager, not you
- Budget visibilityReal-time tracking via a portal or app
- Error protectionPlan managers catch overbilling before it's claimed
- Review supportSpending data helps build your case at plan renewal
Common questions, plainly answered.
If your question isn't here, talk to our team or browse the blog.
Is plan management free?
Yes. The NDIA funds "Improved Life Choices" in your plan separately — approximately $104.45/month. It doesn't reduce your therapy, support worker or equipment budgets by a dollar.
Can I switch plan managers?
Yes, at any time with no penalty. Give written notice (most require 14–30 days), sign a new service agreement, and your new plan manager takes over. See our guide on how to switch plan managers.
Do I need a support coordinator and a plan manager?
They do different things. A support coordinator helps you find and connect with providers. A plan manager pays your bills and tracks your budget. Many participants have both — funded separately in the plan.
What's "reasonable and necessary"?
The NDIA's test for whether a support gets funded. It must relate to your disability, represent value for money, and help you pursue your goals.
Still got questions?
Have a question about NDIS plan management? Send us a message and we will get back to you.