The three types of NDIS plan management
One of the first decisions you'll make as an NDIS participant is how your funding will be managed. There are three options, and each has real trade-offs. Getting this right can make a significant difference to the flexibility and control you have over your supports.
1. NDIA Managed (Agency Managed)
The NDIS (also called the NDIA) manages your funding directly. You can only use NDIS-registered providers, and the provider claims payment directly from the NDIS portal after delivering a service.
- Pros: No administration for you. Simple and straightforward.
- Cons: You can only access registered providers. Less flexibility.
- Best for: People who want simplicity and don't need to use unregistered providers.
2. Plan Managed
A registered Plan Manager handles the financial side — paying invoices, tracking your budget and sending you monthly statements. You can use both registered and unregistered providers, giving you much broader choice.
- Pros: Wide provider choice. Someone else does the admin. Monthly budget statements.
- Cons: You need to find and trust a good plan manager.
- Best for: Most participants who want choice without the paperwork.
3. Self Managed
You manage all the money yourself — paying providers, keeping receipts and submitting claims to the NDIS. You have maximum flexibility, including paying for supports that aren't covered under the standard price guide in some cases.
- Pros: Maximum flexibility and control. Can sometimes negotiate better rates.
- Cons: Significant time commitment. You're responsible for all record keeping. Risk of errors.
- Best for: Organised individuals or families who want full control and have capacity for administration.
Can you mix management types?
Yes. Many participants use a combination — for example, self-managing their Core Supports while using a plan manager for Capacity Building. Your NDIS planner can help you set this up.
How Lyft Community works with all management types
Lyft Community is a registered NDIS provider, which means we can work with NDIA-managed, plan-managed and self-managed participants. We make the invoicing process as simple as possible regardless of your management type.