Using your NDIS plan
NDIA-managed, plan-managed or self-managed: what's the difference?
How your plan is managed affects who pays your providers and which providers you can use. Here's the difference in plain language.
Last checked against ndis.gov.au: 2 October 2026. The NDIA is updating its website for new legislation, so details may change.
In short
- NDIA-managed: the NDIA pays providers, and you can only use registered providers.
- Plan-managed: a plan manager pays providers. You can usually use registered or unregistered providers.
- Self-managed: you pay providers and claim the money back. You have the most flexibility, and the most paperwork.
| Topic | NDIA-managed | Plan-managed | Self-managed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who pays providers | The NDIA | Your plan manager | You (then you claim from the NDIA) |
| Which providers | Registered providers only | Registered or unregistered | Registered or unregistered |
| NDIS price limits apply | Yes | Yes | No, but prices are agreed with you |
| Record keeping | The NDIA | Your plan manager | You |
Some supports always need a registered provider
Whatever way your plan is managed, a few supports can only be delivered by registered providers, including specialist behaviour support, plan management, Specialist Disability Accommodation and supported independent living.
Can I mix and match?
Often, yes. Different parts of a plan can be managed in different ways. Ask the NDIA or your NDIS partner what's possible for you. NDIA: guide to your management options (opens in a new tab)
How ARG Care works with each
ARG Care is a registered NDIS provider, so we can work with all three. For NDIA-managed plans we claim through the NDIA. For plan-managed plans we invoice your plan manager. For self-managed plans we invoice you or your nominee.