✅ What Happens After Your NDIS Plan is Approved? A Complete Guide
When your NDIS plan is approved, it marks a major milestone on your journey to greater independence, inclusion, and support. But what comes next can feel overwhelming—especially if this is your first time navigating the system.
In this article, we break down exactly what happens after your NDIS plan is approved, how to start using your funding, and how to connect with providers and community supports. Whether you’re self-managed, plan-managed, or Agency-managed, we’ve got you covered.
📝 Step 1: You Receive Your NDIS Plan
Once your plan is approved, a copy will be sent to you within 7 days. You can also access it via the my NDIS portal or the NDIS mobile app. If you have a nominee or child representative, they can receive a copy too—only if you give permission.
💡 Want to learn more about data and privacy? Visit: Your privacy and information
🛒 Step 2: Start Using Your NDIS Funding
Your NDIS funding can be used to purchase supports and services that are:
Directly related to your disability
In line with your goals and needs
Categorised as NDIS-funded supports under the NDIS guidelines – Reasonable and Necessary Supports.
⚠️ You cannot use your funding for:
Health services (like GP visits)—these are mainstream supports
General living expenses (e.g., rent, groceries)
Supports provided by other government services
To learn more, read: What does the NDIS fund?
🤝 Step 3: Attend an Implementation Meeting (Optional But Valuable)
You’ll be offered an implementation meeting—this is a great opportunity to get guidance from your my NDIS contact. It also enables you to choose how you would like your plan to be managed (Agency Managed, Plan Managed, Self Managed). If you choose Plan Managed you can set up the endorsement in the meeting and have things start from there.
During this meeting, you’ll learn how to:
Understand and use your plan effectively
Access the my NDIS portal and app
Choose providers aligned with your goals
Select your preference of management style – (Agency Managed, Plan Managed or Self Managed)
If you have support coordination or recovery coaching funding you can look to reach out to a provider who suits your needs. (Here is a checklist to help you decide)
Make service agreements
Connect with community, mainstream, and informal supports
Request a change to your plan if your situation changes
Especially for first-time participants or those with updated plans, this session can make a big difference.
🌐 Connecting With Community, Mainstream and Informal Supports
Not all support comes from the NDIS. Informal, community and government-funded (mainstream) services play a huge role too.
Your NDIS contact can help you:
Join local groups or sporting clubs
Reach out to schools, Medicare, or job services
Strengthen your personal network
Access parenting supports, if you have young children
For families, early childhood partners can guide you in best practices for early intervention.
🔍 Choosing the Right NDIS Providers
A provider is any person or business that delivers your NDIS-funded supports. You can use either:
Registered providers (certified by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission)
Unregistered providers (depending on how your funding is managed)
If your funding is Agency-managed, you must use only registered providers.
You can find providers via:
Tip: Speak to a few providers before deciding. Reviews and word of mouth can be helpful!
💳 Self-Managed Participants: Get Set Up
If you’re managing your own funding, you’ll need to:
Provide your bank account details
Keep records of your spending
Notify NDIS if you’re working with a plan manager or other providers
💡 For support, visit the Plan Implementation Directory.
🚫 Can Family Members Be Paid Providers?
In most cases, no. The NDIS does not fund family members to deliver paid supports, unless there are exceptional circumstances. Learn more about this at Sustaining Informal Supports.
✅ Summary: What to Do After Plan Approval
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| 📩 Receive Plan | Sent in 7 days or via my NDIS portal |
| 📅 Book Meeting | Optional but recommended for first plans |
| 🛒 Use Funds | Spend only on approved, disability-related supports |
| 🔎 Choose Providers | Based on your funding management style |
| 🌐 Connect Supports | Community, informal, and mainstream |
| 💬 Ask Questions | Your my NDIS contact is there to help |
🔗 Helpful Resources & Backlinks:
💬 Need Support Starting Your Plan?
If you’re feeling unsure or have specific questions about your NDIS journey, speak with your my NDIS contact, support coordinator or a registered plan manager. Our team at Complete Money Management will be more than happy to assist you with any questions. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel navigating your support system.