Plan-managed vs self-managed NDIS: what it means for you.
When the NDIS approves a plan, one of the choices on it is how that plan is managed. There are three options: agency-managed, plan-managed, and self-managed. The choice affects which providers you can use, how much paperwork you do, and how much flexibility you have.
The three options
Agency-managed (also called NDIA-managed)
The National Disability Insurance Agency holds and pays out your funding directly. Providers invoice the NDIA. You can only use providers who are registered with the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission. You do almost no admin yourself, but you are restricted to the registered provider pool.
Plan-managed
A plan management organisation — a separate business — holds and administers your funding on your behalf. They pay providers, track your budget, and provide statements. Plan management is funded by the NDIS at no cost to you (it sits as a separate line item on your plan). You can use registered or unregistered providers. You do very little admin.
Self-managed
You receive funding directly into your bank account, pay providers yourself, and claim back from the NDIS. You can use any provider, including registered, unregistered, and informal supports. You have the most flexibility and the most paperwork.
Quick comparison
What this means for choosing an OT
If your plan is agency-managed, you can only see an OT who is registered with the NDIS Commission. Functional Pathways OT is currently not registered with the Commission, so we cannot accept agency-managed referrals.
If your plan is plan-managed or self-managed, you can see any AHPRA-registered OT, including us.
If you are agency-managed and want to access an unregistered provider, your support coordinator can help you change to plan management. The change usually takes effect from your next plan review, or sometimes earlier.
Which one is right for you?
There is no single correct answer. Most adults we work with are plan-managed, because it offers the widest provider choice with the least admin. Self-management suits people who want maximum flexibility and are comfortable handling paperwork. Agency management is the simplest if you are happy to use registered providers only.
Your support coordinator, plan manager, or LAC can help you weigh up which option suits your situation. There is no penalty for changing — most people change at least once during their NDIS journey.
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