NDIA-managed vs plan-managed vs self-managed: which providers can you use?
If your plan is NDIA-managed, you can only use registered NDIS providers, and the NDIA pays them. If it's plan-managed or self-managed, you can use registered or unregistered providers. NDIS price limits apply to NDIA-managed and plan-managed supports, but not to self-managed supports.
Last updated: 12 October 2026 · Facts checked against ndis.gov.au · Reviewed by: Equal Access Care HR department
Comparison
| NDIA-managed | Plan-managed | Self-managed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who pays providers | The NDIA | Your plan manager | You (then you claim from the NDIA) |
| Providers you can use | Registered only | Registered or unregistered | Registered or unregistered |
| Pricing Schedule limits apply? | Yes | Yes | No (but you must stay within your budget) |
| Paperwork for you | Least | Low | Most (records, receipts, claims) |
| Cost to you | None | Plan management is funded in your plan | None |
How to choose
- Choose NDIA-managed if you want the least admin and your providers are registered.
- Choose plan-managed if you want more choice of providers without doing the invoices yourself.
- Choose self-managed if you want full control and are comfortable keeping records.
- You can mix them. For example, part of your plan can be self-managed and part NDIA-managed.
For the three budgets in every plan, and how to check how yours is managed, see how NDIS funding works.
Changing how your plan is managed
Ask your my NDIS contact, or call the NDIA on 1800 800 110. A change in how your plan is managed may be done through a plan variation.
Can I use Equal Access Care?
Yes, with any of the three. We're a registered NDIS provider (registration 4-L3B1CJR). You can check this on the NDIS Commission provider register. We don't offer plan management ourselves, but we work with any plan manager you choose.
Sources: Managing your plan, ndis.gov.au · Guide to your management options · Pricing arrangements
Frequently asked questions
Is plan management free?
It's funded from your plan, so you don't pay out of pocket.
Can a self-managed participant pay more than the price limit?
The limits don't bind self-managed participants, but you should still get value for money from your budget.
Do I need a service agreement?
They're recommended for all supports. Ask us for one in plain language.
Make a referral or ask a question
Call 0412 306 722 or email admin@equalaccesscare.com.au. We'll call you back the same day. Prefer a form? Use the online referral form.