Understanding Your NDIS Funding
Your NDIS plan funding must be used only for the supports described in your plan. Each plan contains different NDIS funding categories and budget components—each with specific rules on how that funding can be spent.
Spending NDIS funds correctly ensures you get the right supports and avoid potential penalties or repayment obligations. For guidance on setting up your plan effectively, see our NDIS Plan Management Services.
When Things Go Wrong
Sometimes mistakes happen. This can include:
Not receiving the support you agreed to
A provider claiming more than you approved
Purchasing items not covered in your plan
While most people do the right thing, misunderstandings and errors can occur.
If you’re unsure, our NDIS Plan Management team can help you clarify what is and isn’t included in your plan.
What To Do If You Think There’s a Problem
If you believe your provider or registered plan manager has made an incorrect claim:
Contact them immediately to clarify the issue.
- If you have a Support Coordinator, contact them to clarify or investigate the issue.
If you feel uncomfortable raising it directly, speak to someone you trust for support.
If you can’t resolve the matter, contact the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA).
How the NDIA Might Respond
If the NDIA believes your funding is being used incorrectly, they may:
Review your purchase records
Request evidence such as receipts or invoices
Investigate claims made against your funding
For more on compliance, visit the NDIS Fraud & Compliance page.
If You Make a Mistake with Self-Managed Funds
If you accidentally buy supports not in your plan:
Contact the NDIA promptly—they can help fix errors and guide you for future claims.
Honest mistakes can be corrected, but deliberate misuse can have serious consequences.
Our friendly team of plan managers at Complete Money Management are happy to help explain how to track spending and stay compliant even if you self manage your plan.
Deliberate Misuse of NDIS Funds
If you knowingly spend your funding on items or services that are not NDIS supports, you may:
Owe a debt to the NDIA (repaying the amount spent)
Have your plan funding management changed
Have the length of your funding periods reduced
NDIS funds cannot be used for:
Day-to-day living costs such as rent or groceries
Items unrelated to your disability support needs
For further information on what is included or not include as items the NDIS will fund see here.
Fraud and How to Report It
Fraud includes actions like:
Charging for supports you didn’t receive
Charging for more hours or sessions than provided
If you suspect fraud:
Call the NDIS Fraud Reporting Hotline on 1800 650 717
Learn more about how to report it at the NDIS Fraud Reporting page
Key Takeaways
Spend NDIS funds only on supports in your plan
Always keep receipts and records of purchases
Contact the NDIA immediately if you think there’s an error or issue
Report any suspected fraud to protect the integrity of the NDIS
For more practical tips on managing your NDIS plan, see our NDIS Knowledge Centre.
By Complete Money Management
Your partner in navigating the NDIS with confidence.
www.completemoney.com.au