If you're an NDIS participant, one detail has a big impact on your choices: how your plan is managed. It determines the flexibility you have to choose your own support workers — including independent providers. Here's how the three options compare.
This is general information only. How support can be arranged always depends on your individual plan and circumstances.
Self-managed
Self-managing means you (or a nominee) manage your NDIS funding directly. You organise your own supports, pay providers and keep records. Self-managed participants generally have the most flexibility and can usually choose any provider, including independent support workers who aren't NDIS registered.
Plan-managed
With plan management, a plan manager handles the payments and paperwork on your behalf, while you choose your supports. Plan-managed participants also often have flexibility to engage independent support workers, depending on their plan. It's a popular middle ground — choice without the full administrative load of self-managing.
Agency-managed (NDIA-managed)
If your plan is agency-managed, the NDIA manages your funding and you generally need to use NDIS-registered providers. This can mean fewer options when it comes to independent workers, though it depends on your plan.
What this means for choosing a support worker
In short: self-managed and plan-managed participants usually have the most room to choose an independent support worker, while agency-managed participants generally use registered providers. If you're not sure how your plan is managed, your plan manager or support coordinator can confirm — or you can simply get in touch and we'll talk it through.
Key takeaways
- Self-managed: most flexibility — usually any provider, including independents.
- Plan-managed: a plan manager handles payments; you still choose supports, often including independents.
- Agency-managed: generally requires NDIS-registered providers.
- Your plan manager or support coordinator can confirm how your plan works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can plan-managed participants use an independent support worker?
Often yes. Plan-managed participants typically have flexibility to engage independent support workers, depending on their plan. It's best to confirm with your plan manager.
What's the difference between self-managed and plan-managed?
Self-managed means you handle your own funding and payments. Plan-managed means a plan manager handles payments for you while you still choose your supports.
Is Samuel G Support an NDIS-registered provider?
Independent support workers commonly work with self-managed and plan-managed participants. If registration is relevant to your situation, contact me and we can discuss whether my support suits your circumstances.
Looking for Support in Perth?
If you'd like to talk through your situation with an experienced independent support worker, I'd be happy to have an initial conversation.
There's no pressure — just a friendly chat about what you're looking for.
Experienced Support. Genuine Connection. Your Life, Your Way.
Contact Samuel