The role of plan management in supporting self-management aspirations

Published at 13-01-2025 11:45:00

The role of plan management in supporting self-management aspirations

The NDIS empowers participants to manage their funding in ways that best suit their goals and lifestyles. For many, self-management represents the ultimate level of independence, giving them full control over their budgets, service providers, and invoicing. However, transitioning to self-management can feel daunting. This is where plan management comes in, acting as a stepping stone and support system for participants aspiring to achieve self-management.

What is plan management?

Plan management is an NDIS support option where a plan manager, like Just Plan Managers, helps participants handle the financial administration of their plans. This includes paying invoices, keeping track of spending, and ensuring funds are used appropriately. Plan management combines the flexibility of self-management with the convenience of professional support, making it an attractive option for participants at all stages of their NDIS journey.

If you want to read more about plan management, check out our previous resource: What is plan management? Demystifying the NDIS

What is self-management?

Self-management allows participants to take full control of their NDIS funding. Participants can:

• Choose from registered and unregistered providers.
• Directly manage invoices and payments.
• Decide how and when their funding is used, as long as it aligns with NDIS guidelines.

While self-management offers maximum flexibility, it also comes with responsibilities, such as maintaining accurate records, submitting reports, and handling all administrative tasks independently.

If you want to learn more about the different types of funding management, read more on Understanding the differences between NDIA managed, self-managed, and plan managed

How plan management supports self-management aspirations

1. Building confidence and skills
   • Plan management gives participants the opportunity to learn about managing their funding in a supportive environment. A plan manager can:
     • Explain budgeting concepts.
     • Help participants understand their NDIS plan allocations.
     • Provide insights into invoicing, compliance, and record-keeping.
     • This hands-on experience equips participants with the skills and knowledge needed to transition to self-management confidently.
2. Offering flexibility without the pressure
   • For participants aspiring to self-management, plan management strikes a balance between flexibility and support. With plan management, participants can:
     • Access both registered and unregistered providers, just like in self-management.
     • Retain autonomy over choosing their supports and services.
     • Avoid the stress of handling financial administration, which is managed by the plan manager.
3. Providing financial guidance
   • One of the key roles of a plan manager is to help participants track their spending and avoid running out of funds prematurely. By monitoring budgets, offering guidance, and highlighting spending patterns, plan managers can help participants develop the financial literacy needed for self-management.
4. Reducing the administrative burden
   • While self-management requires participants to handle all financial and administrative tasks, plan management takes care of these responsibilities. Participants can focus on achieving their goals while gradually learning how to manage their funding. This reduces overwhelm and ensures participants are prepared when they decide to self-manage.
5. Creating a personalized transition plan
   • For participants who express an interest in self-management, plan managers can work with them to develop a step-by-step transition plan. This might include:
     • Gradually taking on more responsibilities, such as reviewing invoices or choosing providers.
     • Providing ongoing guidance and resources.
     • Offering encouragement and troubleshooting as participants build their confidence.

Who benefits from using plan management as a stepping stone?

Plan management is particularly beneficial for:

• New NDIS participants: Those who are still learning how to navigate the system.
• Participants with busy schedules: Those who want flexibility but lack the time to manage the financial aspects of their plan.
• Participants working towards self-management: Those who want to build their skills and knowledge over time.

Key differences between plan management and self-management

How to decide if plan management is right for you

If you’re considering self-management but feel uncertain about handling the responsibilities, plan management may be the ideal choice. Ask yourself:

• Do I want flexibility in choosing providers?
• Am I ready to manage my own invoicing and record-keeping?
• Would I benefit from learning financial and administrative skills before transitioning to self-management?

If you’re unsure, consult with a plan manager or support coordinator to explore your options.

Final thoughts

Plan management provides a supportive pathway for participants who aspire to self-manage their NDIS funding. By combining professional guidance with flexibility, it enables participants to build the skills and confidence needed to take full control of their plans.

Get in touch

Whether you’re just starting your NDIS journey or working toward self-management, Just Plan Managers is here to support you every step of the way. Call us on 1300 217 037 or email us at info@justplanmanagers.com.au to learn more about how plan management can help you achieve your goals and transition to self-management with ease.