Navigating your NDIS plan for the first time can feel overwhelming, but understanding its structure and content is essential for making the most of your supports. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you read and understand your NDIS plan, including how to choose the best way to manage your funds.
Step 1: Start with the Cover Letter and Plan Summary
Your NDIS plan begins with a cover letter and a summary of your plan details. This section includes crucial information about how your supports are managed—whether they are plan managed, self managed, or agency managed. It also lists the support categories and shows how each category is managed, which is important for understanding your responsibilities and options.
Step 2: Review Personal Information and Support Networks
The next section contains information about you, your family, and your support networks. This includes:
- Details about your disability and living situation
- Information on carers or family members who support you
- Community groups or services you access
This context helps the NDIS tailor supports to your unique circumstances.
Step 3: Understand Your Goals
Your goals section outlines both your short-term and long-term objectives. These goals guide the funding and supports you receive. Each goal should connect to the supports listed in your plan, so check that your supports align with what you want to achieve.
Step 4: Identify Funded and Unfunded Supports
Your plan will clearly state which supports are funded and which are not. If a support is not funded—such as certain types of assistive technology—you cannot use your NDIS funds for that item. Make sure you understand these limitations to avoid unexpected costs.
Step 5: Explore Funding Categories
NDIS funding is divided into three main categories:
- Core Supports: Everyday activities and assistance
- Capital Supports: Equipment, technology, or modifications
- Capacity Building Supports: Skills development and independence
Each category will have a budget and may be managed differently (plan, self, or agency managed). Review how much funding is allocated to each and any restrictions on how you can use it.
Step 6: Check Plan Dates and Contact Information
Your plan summary will include:
- Start and end dates for your current plan period
- Reassessment dates
- Contact details for your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIS planner
Keep this information handy for any questions or changes during your plan period.
Managed NDIS Plan vs Self Managed
A key decision in using your NDIS plan is how you want your funds managed. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which option suits you best:
| Feature | Self Managed | Plan Managed |
|---|---|---|
| Provider Choice | Any provider (registered or not) | Any provider (registered or not) |
| Price Flexibility | Can pay above NDIS price guide | Must stick to NDIS price guide |
| Admin Responsibility | You handle all invoices, payments, and records | The plan manager handles payments, records |
| Time Commitment | High (5–25 hours/week for admin) | Low—plan manager does the admin |
| Budget Tracking | You are responsible | The plan manager assists and provides statements |
| NDIA Portal Use | Required | Not required |
| Cost to You | None | None—NDIS funds the plan manager |
- Self managed plans offer maximum flexibility and control, but require you to manage all paperwork, payments, and record-keeping yourself.
- Plan managed plans relieve you of the administration, as the plan manager pays providers, tracks your budget, and keeps records for audits. Both options allow you to use non-registered providers, but only self management lets you pay above the NDIS price guide if you wish (the difference comes out of your own pocket).
You can also choose a mix of management types across different support categories to suit your needs.
Step 7: Know What to Do if Things Change
If your circumstances change or you want to switch how your plan is managed, contact your LAC or the NDIS directly. You can adjust your plan management style or request a review if your supports are no longer meeting your needs.
Final Tips
- Read each section carefully to understand what supports are funded and how you can use them.
- Keep track of your goals and ensure your supports are helping you work towards them.
- Choose the right management option for your lifestyle and preferences—see the section above on managed NDIS plan vs self managed.
- Reach out for help if you’re unsure—your LAC, plan manager, or support coordinator can assist.
Understanding your NDIS plan empowers you to make informed choices and get the most value from your supports. Take the time to review your plan thoroughly and don’t hesitate to seek advice if you need it.
