Plan Managers in Perspective – What Makes a Good NDIS Plan Manager?
August 22nd, 2021 
NDIS Participants can choose how to manage the money they receive from the NDIS. One option open to all participants is to use a Plan Manager. In this article we take a closer look at what makes a good NDIS Plan Manager.
Plan Managers are often people with a financial background such as bookkeepers, accountants, or businesses who specialise in the area. It’s a bit like having a personal assistant to help with the financial administration – the time-consuming detailed work that the participant would otherwise have to do.
For the participant, using a Plan Manager means keeping the choice and flexibility of self-management in how funding is used, and being able to personally select providers of goods and services (called “supports” by the NDIS).
The Basic Role
The basic role of the Plan Manager, also known by the NDIS as a Financial Intermediary, is to receive invoices from providers (supports) and claim the appropriate funds from the NDIS.
Financial administration work, including claiming and paying invoices, and detailed record keeping is done for the participant, who receives regular financial statements from the Plan Manager.
An added advantage of linking in with a Plan Manager within the NDIS framework is that service providers enlisted or contracted do not need to be registered with the NDIS, allowing greater choice and control around engaging personalised services and supports.
What makes a good NDIS Plan Manager?
So, what makes a good NDIS Plan Manager? A good Plan Manager can make all the difference to your overall experience when accessing the NDIS, with many aspects needed to be taken into account when choosing a competent and efficient provider in the Plan Management space. Some of the important aspects which could be considered in this endeavour may very well include:
Someone who:
- Cares about you as an NDIS recipient
- Cares about your service providers, ensuring they are paid quickly
- Is always just a phone call away to answer any questions
- Communicates openly and honestly
- Encourages personal growth and independence
- Is knowledgeable in NDIS processes
- Has an excellent knowledge of local service providers and contractors
- Is flexible and responsive to your needs
- Ensures processes are seamless and easy to use
- Is set up to provide prompt payments and reimbursements (within 2 working days)
- Provides easy to view funding account balances, monthly budget statements and annual forecasts
- Supports you to navigate the NDIS and Plan Management systems
- Advises around safeguards: including establishing Provider Agreements, seeking out quality and well recognized providers, value for money products and services, as well as budgeting for the life of the plan.
- Actively listens to all feedback and who resolves any issues in a timely manner
- Treats you with courtesy and respect
- Protects your personal information and maintains confidentiality at all times
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