NDIS Plan Management
Understanding plan management
Not sure what plan management is or whether it's right for you? Here's everything you need to know, explained in plain English.
The Basics
What is plan management?
Plan management is one of three ways to manage your NDIS funding. Think of it as having a financial assistant for your NDIS plan.
Here's how it works: The NDIS gives your funding to a registered plan manager (instead of keeping it themselves or giving it directly to you). Your plan manager then pays your service providers' invoices on your behalf and tracks your budget.
You still choose which providers you use and what services you receive. The plan manager just handles the money side—invoices, payments, and budget tracking.
The key benefit? You get more provider choice than NDIA-managed plans, but less admin hassle than self-managed plans.
Why Choose Plan Management
Benefits of plan-managed funding
Plan management gives you the best of both worlds—flexibility and support.
Provider Choice
Use both registered AND non-registered providers (within approved service types). More options than NDIA-managed plans.
Less Admin
Plan manager handles invoices, payments, and paperwork. You don't chase providers or process claims yourself.
Budget Tracking
Plan manager tracks spending and sends you regular budget reports. Know exactly where your funding stands.
Invoice Checking
Plan manager reviews invoices for accuracy before paying. Protects you from billing errors or overcharges.
No Bank Account Needed
Funding goes to plan manager, not you. No need for a separate bank account or financial records.
Usually Free
Plan management is included in most NDIS plans at no cost to you. Check your plan or ask your LAC/planner.
How It Works
Plan management in 4 simple steps
Choose a Plan Manager
Select a registered NDIS plan manager. They'll set you up in their system and notify the NDIA they'll be managing your funding.
Funding Flows
NDIA transfers your funding to the plan manager's trust account. You don't handle the money—it sits with them securely.
You Choose Providers
Pick whichever providers you want (registered or not). Give them your plan manager's details. They send invoices to the plan manager.
Manager Pays & Reports
Plan manager reviews invoices, pays providers, and sends you budget statements. You get regular updates on spending.
Comparison
NDIA vs Plan-Managed vs Self-Managed
Not sure which management type is right for you? Here's how they compare.
Bottom line: Plan-managed gives you maximum provider choice with minimum admin hassle. It's the sweet spot for most participants.
Common Questions
Plan Management FAQ
How do I get plan management in my NDIS plan?
Ask your LAC or NDIS planner during your planning meeting. Tell them you want plan management included. Most participants are eligible—it's usually approved automatically.
Does plan management cost me anything?
No. Plan management fees come from a separate budget category in your plan. It doesn't reduce your core or capacity building budgets.
Can I switch from NDIA-managed to plan-managed?
Yes, but you'll need to wait until your next plan review or request an early review. Contact the NDIA to request the change.
Can I change plan managers if I'm not happy?
Yes. You can switch plan managers at any time. Just notify your current manager and the NDIA, then choose a new one.
What if I want to use Lapis with plan management?
Perfect! We work with all plan managers. Just give us your plan manager's details when you start services. We'll invoice them directly.
Do plan managers tell me what services I can use?
No. You choose your services and providers. The plan manager just handles the financial side—they don't control your support choices.
Questions about plan management?
Talk to our team. We work with plan-managed, NDIA-managed, and self-managed participants every day and can explain your options in plain English.