Every NDIS plan is managed in one of three ways. The choice affects who pays invoices, which providers you can use and how much admin you'll do. You can also mix options across different budgets.
NDIA-managed (agency-managed)
The NDIA pays providers directly. You can only use NDIS-registered providers, and all claims are made through the NDIS portal by the provider. This is the lowest-effort option, with pricing automatically capped at the NDIS price limits. Borealis Care is a registered provider, so we can claim directly for agency-managed participants.
Plan-managed
A plan manager — a registered financial intermediary — pays your invoices, tracks your budgets and sends you statements. You can use both registered and unregistered providers, and the plan manager's fees are funded separately in your plan at no cost to your other budgets. This is the most common choice: flexibility without the paperwork.
Self-managed
You (or a nominee) receive invoices, pay providers and claim reimbursement from the NDIS. You have the most choice, including unregistered providers and negotiated prices, but you also take on record keeping and must be able to show how funds were spent.
Which one is right?
- Want minimum admin and are happy using registered providers? NDIA-managed.
- Want flexibility of providers but not the bookkeeping? Plan-managed.
- Comfortable with admin and want full control? Self-managed.
You can ask to change how your plan is managed at any plan review. Whatever you choose, Borealis Care works with all three — talk to us about how we'd fit into your plan.