NDIS Funding Guide
Can I use my NDIS plan
to work with you?
Great question — and the answer depends on how your NDIS plan is managed. This page explains the three plan types in plain language, so you know exactly where you stand before you even pick up the phone.
The short answer
Spectrum Supports Tasmania is an unregistered NDIS provider. I can work with participants who are self-managed or plan-managed. If your plan is agency-managed (NDIA-managed), I'm not currently able to support you — but I'll always be honest about this and help point you in the right direction.
The three plan types
How NDIS plans can be managed
When the NDIA creates your NDIS plan, they also set up how your funding is managed. There are three options — and they affect which providers you can choose.
Self-managed
You manage your funding directly
You're in full control. You pay providers directly and claim the money back from the NDIA through the myplace portal. It's more admin — but it gives you the most flexibility and the widest choice of providers.
- Can use any provider — registered or unregistered
- You pay invoices, then claim back from NDIS
- Can negotiate rates (within NDIS price cap)
- You keep your own spending records
Plan-managed
A plan manager handles your payments
A registered plan manager (a third party, paid separately by your NDIS plan) handles all the invoices and payments on your behalf. You choose your supports — they handle the admin. You still get full choice of provider.
- Can use registered and unregistered providers
- I invoice your plan manager directly — no admin for you
- Plan management is funded as a separate budget line
- Good balance of flexibility and support
Agency-managed
Also called NDIA-managed
The NDIA manages your plan and pays providers directly. This is the most common plan type — but it limits you to NDIS-registered providers only. Because I'm currently unregistered, I can't support agency-managed participants.
- Can only use registered NDIS providers
- Spectrum Supports is not currently registered
- You can request to switch to plan-managed — ask your LAC
- NDIS registration planned for Year 2
Side by side
Plan type comparison
| Feature | Self-managed | Plan-managed | Agency-managed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can use Spectrum Supports | |||
| Can use unregistered providers | |||
| Can use registered providers | |||
| Who pays invoices | You pay, then claim from NDIA | Your plan manager pays for you | NDIA pays providers directly |
| Admin workload | High — you manage records | Low — plan manager handles it | Very low — NDIA handles all |
| Provider choice | Maximum flexibility | Wide choice | Registered providers only |
| Separate cost for management | No | Yes — plan management is a funded line item in your plan | No |
| How billing works | I invoice you → you claim back from myplace portal | I invoice your plan manager directly → no action needed from you | Not available |
How it works in practice
Self-managed: how billing works
If you self-manage, here's exactly what happens after a session: us.
Session complete
I complete your support session and record the hours and activities in my notes.
I send you an invoice
You receive a clear invoice with our ABN, the service dates, hours, and the $65/hr rate (Mon–Fri incl. evenings).
You claim from NDIS
You submit the invoice through the NDIS myplace portal. The NDIA reimburses you, usually within 3 business days.
How it works in practice
Plan-managed: how billing works
If you're plan-managed, the process is even simpler — you don't have to do anything after each session.
Session complete
I complete your support session. You've chosen the support — your plan manager handles the rest.
I invoice your plan manager
I send the invoice directly to your plan manager. Just let me know their name and email when we start.
Plan manager pays me
Your plan manager processes the invoice from your NDIS budget. No action needed from you.
We work with all plan management providers in Tasmania. Just share your plan manager's contact details when you start with us.
Not sure about your plan?
How to check your plan type
Check your NDIS letter
Your original NDIS approval letter or plan review letter will usually state how your plan is managed. Look for "self-managed," "plan-managed," or "agency-managed."
Log in to myplace
The NDIS myplace portal shows your plan details, funding categories, and management type under "My Plan."
Contact the NDIA
Call the NDIS on 1800 800 110 and ask them to confirm your plan management type. They can also explain your options for switching.
Ask your LAC or support coordinator
If you have a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or support coordinator, they can tell you your plan type and help you explore whether switching to plan management might benefit you.
Still not sure? Just ask.
I'm happy to have an honest conversation about your situation. I won't push you toward anything — if I can't support you directly, I'll tell you clearly and try to point you toward someone who can.
Get in touchReady to get started?
If you're self-managed or plan-managed, we'd love to hear from you. If you're not sure — that's fine too. Just get in touch and we'll figure it out together.