One of the first decisions you'll make with your NDIS plan is how it will be managed. This choice affects which providers you can use, who pays the invoices, and how much control you have day-to-day. There is no right or wrong answer — the best option depends on your situation.
The Three Types at a Glance
The NDIA pays your providers directly from your plan. Simple and hands-off — but you must use registered NDIS providers only.
Pros
- No invoices or paperwork for you
- Provider payments are handled automatically
- Strongest consumer protections
Cons
- Must use registered providers only
- Less flexibility in provider choice
- Can be slower to set up new services
A registered plan manager handles your invoices and payments. You get flexibility without the admin burden.
Pros
- Can use registered AND unregistered providers
- Plan manager handles all invoices
- No cost to you — funded separately in your plan
- More choice than agency-managed
Cons
- Slight processing delay on payments
- Need to choose a plan manager
You manage your own funds — paying providers, keeping receipts, and claiming from the NDIA. Maximum flexibility but most responsibility.
Pros
- Use any provider — registered or not
- Set your own hourly rates (within reason)
- Maximum control and flexibility
Cons
- Significant admin burden
- You're responsible for record-keeping
- Not ideal for everyone — requires financial confidence
Which One Is Right for You?
“I want minimal admin and the simplest option”
→ Agency-managed
Ideal if you're new to the NDIS or want everything handled automatically.
“I want flexibility to choose any provider without the paperwork”
→ Plan-managed
The most popular choice — combines flexibility with support. Cost is covered separately in your plan.
“I want maximum control over how I spend my funding”
→ Self-managed
Best for people with experience navigating the NDIS, strong organisation skills, and time to manage invoices.
“I want to use St Anastasia's Care specifically”
→ Any — we accept all three
As a registered NDIS provider, St Anastasia's Care works with agency-managed, plan-managed, and self-managed participants.
Does Plan Management Cost Anything?
No. Plan management is funded separately in your plan under Improved Life Choices. It does not come out of your Core Supports budget. There is no cost to you for using a plan manager — it's an additional allocation on top of your other funding.
Can You Mix and Match?
Yes — different parts of your plan can be managed differently. For example, you might have your Core Supports agency-managed (for simplicity) but your Capacity Building funds self-managed (for more provider flexibility). Discuss this option with your LAC or support coordinator.
Working With St Anastasia's Care
St Anastasia's Care is a registered NDIS provider, which means we can work with participants regardless of how their plan is managed. If you're agency-managed, plan-managed, or self-managed — we can support you.
If you're unsure which management type is in your plan or want to change it, contact us and we'll help you understand your options and who to speak to.
“Plan management has been a game-changer for many of our participants. It gives them the flexibility to choose the right provider for their needs without the stress of managing their own finances.”
— St Anastasia's Care
Disclaimer: This guide is for general informational purposes only. NDIS rules change regularly — always verify current information at ndis.gov.au. Full disclaimer →