Congratulations! Receiving your NDIS funding is a huge step towards taking control of your life and working towards your goals. If you’re unsure what to do first, this guide breaks down exactly what to do after you receive your NDIS plan. So you can get started with confidence!
Understanding Your NDIS Plan: First Things First
Receiving your NDIS funding is a major milestone, but the next steps are crucial in making sure you get the most out of it. Your plan outlines the supports and services you’re funded for and sets out your goals.
How do I know my funding categories? What is a self-managed plan? What supports can help me achieve my goals? These are common questions that arise that can cause confusion and fear of getting it wrong. If you receive the funding for it, we strongly recommend working with a support coordinator. Support coordinators walk you through everything and ensure you get the most out of your plan from the beginning.
They will start by identifying your funding categories — these may include Core, Capacity Building, and Capital supports. Check how your plan is managed: it might be self-managed, plan-managed, or NDIA-managed, and support in making the decision about what option is best for you. They’ll take a look at your stated goals and how your supports can align with them.
Step 1: Connect With the Right People
One of the most important first steps is connecting with the key people who can help you get started.
Your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or Early Childhood Partner will guide you through the plan and connect you to services in your community. They help explain your plan in detail and clarify what supports are available.
Support Coordinators (if funded) are your go-to contacts for sourcing service providers, setting up supports, and addressing any challenges. They’ll help bring your plan to life and advocate for you every step of the way.
Plan Managers (if funded or chosen) help you manage your NDIS budget and handle invoice payments. They also provide you with tools to track your spending and give you more flexibility in choosing providers.
It may seem daunting to partner with a plan manager or support coordinator for such an important role in your life. Please remember you’re always in control — if you’re unhappy with your support coordinator or plan manager, you can choose someone else at any time.
Step 2: Understand How to Use Each Funding Category
Your NDIS plan will include different types of funding categories, each designed to support you in a specific way.
Core Supports are the most flexible. They help you with everyday activities such as personal care, community access, transport, or meal preparation. You might use this to fund support workers, domestic help, or travel to appointments.
Capacity Building Supports are designed to help you learn new skills or build independence. This includes therapies like occupational or speech therapy, support coordination, and programs that help you participate in work or education.
Capital Supports cover one-off or big-ticket items like assistive technology or home modifications. This could be a wheelchair, a hoist, or changes to your home to make it accessible. Quotes and NDIA approvals are usually required before purchasing.
Step 3: Start Booking Supports and Services
Now it’s time to start accessing services.
Service Agreements are formal arrangements between you and your service providers. These outline how and when supports will be delivered, cost per session, cancellation terms, and invoicing details. Make sure you understand each agreement before signing.
Budgeting is crucial. Even with a plan manager, it’s important to know how much is in each budget category and how you plan to use it. Mapping this out early helps ensure you don’t underspend or run out of funds too soon. Your plan manager can provide updates and reports at any time – don’t be afraid to ask for them regularly.
If your plan is NDIA-managed, you can only work with registered providers. But if it’s plan-managed or self-managed, you can also use non-registered providers.
Most NDIS funding does not roll over. Using your funds consistently throughout the plan period is key to getting the support you need.
Step 4: Keep Records and Track Your Progress
Keeping good records will help you monitor your progress and prepare for future plan reviews. Document what services you’ve used, the outcomes, and how they’ve helped you work towards your goals.
Store copies of service agreements, invoices, and any reports or progress notes from providers. This information can help your plan manager track spending and will be helpful during your next plan review.
Regular check-ins with your coordinator or plan manager will also ensure you stay on track and feel supported.
Step 5: Know When to Seek Help
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed is common when you’re starting out, but help is available.
Even choosing a plan manager and/or support coordinator as a first step is a significant task. We have a blog post outlining our best tips for choosing professional support services that will put you first. You’re not expected to do this alone. Building the right support system around you will empower you to achieve your goals and ensure you’re always in control and confident about your funding and plan.
Make The Most Of Your Funding With Achora
Starting your NDIS journey is exciting but can come with a lot of questions. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out on your own. Whether you need help choosing providers, understanding your plan, or managing your funding, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Reach out today to make the most of your NDIS funding — and take the first step toward achieving your goals.
