Does My NDIS Plan Manager Need to Be Local?
Empowrd • June 1, 2025
When you’re setting up your NDIS plan or exploring better support options, one common question is:
“Do I need to choose a plan manager based in my area?”
The answer is simple: No, you don’t.
In fact, more participants are turning to trusted providers beyond their postcode. Over 50% of NDIS participants now choose to use a plan manager — valuing flexibility, expert support, and stress-free budgeting over location.
What Does a Plan Manager Do?
Plan managers are NDIS-registered providers who:
- Pay your provider invoices on your behalf
- Track your NDIS budget and provide monthly statements
- Help you understand how to get the most from your funding
They allow you to use both registered and unregistered providers, while taking away the admin of self-managing your plan.
You Can Choose a Plan Manager Anywhere in Australia
NDIS rules allow you to choose any registered plan manager, regardless of where you live. There’s no requirement to work with someone in your state, region, or postcode.
Since most plan management communication happens online, by phone, or via email, a reliable remote plan manager can be just as effective (if not more so) than someone local.
How to Get Plan Management in Your NDIS Plan
Plan Management is one of the three ways to manage your NDIS funding, along with Self-Management and NDIA (Agency) Management.
To access Plan Management, you simply need to request it during your planning or plan review meeting. Ask your planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to include "Improved Life Choices" funding in your Capacity Building budget.
Important:
Plan management is fully funded by the NDIS — it doesn't reduce your other supports or funding amounts.
You can also switch to a plan manager mid-plan by submitting a Change of Details or Plan Variation Request via the myplace portal through your linked my place portal in myGov or by contacting the NDIA directly.
What Matters More Than Location
Rather than focusing on geography, it’s worth asking:
- Do they pay invoices quickly and accurately?
- Will they explain my budget in clear, easy-to-understand terms?
- Are they easy to reach if I have questions?
- Will they help me feel confident using my plan?
You deserve a plan manager who’s experienced, responsive, and committed to helping you achieve your goals — wherever you are.
Why Participants Choose Empowrd
At Empowrd, we support NDIS participants across all states and territories with:
- Fast, friendly service via phone and email
- Clear monthly statements and budget tracking
- Flexible support that fits around you
- Experienced staff who understand your funding needs
Whether you’re in a metro area, regional town, or remote community, we’re here to make your plan management easier.
Final Thoughts
So, do you need a local plan manager?
Absolutely not.
What you need is someone who listens, responds, and helps you get the most out of your NDIS plan — and that can happen from anywhere in Australia.
Start Plan Management with Empowrd
📞 Call (08) 8683 4401 or visit our website to learn more.
Let us support your journey — no matter where you live.
NDIS Plan Management and Support Coordination
At Empowrd, we are here to make your life easier. Based in Port Lincoln on the Eyre Peninsula, we offer a personal, accessible and holistic approach to NDIS Plan Management and Support Coordination.
We provide Plan Management services across Australia, assisting with financial administration, and offer Support Coordination to participants in Port Lincoln and Eyre Peninsula, connecting them with the right supports and providers. Our goal is to ensure your NDIS plan works for you, so you can focus on achieving your goals and doing what you love.
Want to Become a Support Worker?
Our Independent Support Workers Education Portal provides everything you need to navigate the NDIS, find work, and confidently offer services as an Independent Support Worker. For just $65, you will gain access to comprehensive guides, essential resources, and ready-to-use templates to streamline your work.
Inside, you will find:
- A clear breakdown of how the NDIS works
- Tips for finding jobs and delivering services
- Step-by-step guidance on invoicing and support planning
- Ready-to-edit templates for quotes, service agreements, invoices, and case notes
Need just the templates? You can also purchase them separately as standalone resources.
I hope you enjoy reading this blog post.
If you are ready to be Empowrd to live your life to the fullest, let us steer you on the right path.
Empowrd offers NDIS Support Coordination in Ceduna, Wudinna, Streaky Bay & West Coast SA. Meet George, your local expert. Referrals welcome via call or website.
Learn how a Companion Card helps NDIS participants save on events and activities. Check eligibility and how to apply in your state or territory.
An NDIS plan is more than just a document; it’s your roadmap for achieving the life you want. It provides you with the funding and support you need to achieve your goals, develop your skills, and engage with your community. But let’s be honest: reading through your plan can sometimes feel like decoding a foreign language. There are funding “buckets,” line item codes, budgets split into categories, and terms that might leave you scratching your head. The good news is that once you understand the basics, it becomes much clearer and you’ll feel far more confident about making the most of your plan. In this guide, we’ll explain what’s inside an NDIS plan, how the funding buckets work, and what those line items mean.
Learn why NDIS providers might not get paid, how plan managers process invoices, and steps providers and participants should take to avoid delays and resolve issues.
Major NDIS changes in 2025–2026 affect funding, pricing, and services. Learn how participants and providers will be impacted and how to have your say.
Learn how to choose the right NDIS support line codes, avoid invoice rejections, and comply with the 2025 NDIS updates. Tips for providers and participants.
NDIS support workers help with personal care, community access, daily tasks, and skill-building. Learn what they do, how to hire one, and what makes a great support worker under your plan.
Not sure which assessments the NDIS will pay for? Learn the difference between funded functional capacity assessments and unfunded diagnostic tests like ASD or IQ reports. This guide helps you avoid confusion and plan with confidence.
From June 2025, new and reassessed NDIS plans will reflect key PACE changes, including funding components and release periods. Learn how these updates impact participants, providers, and plan managers — and how to stay ahead.
Be EMPOWRD to Live Your Best Life
If you are ready to be Empowrd to live your life to the fullest, let us steer you on the right path. To get started, all you have to do is sign up using our online enquiry form and we’ll get back to you shortly.
