How to Buy NDIS Supports from Providers: A Complete Guide
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers flexibility and choice in how participants purchase supports. Whether you are agency-managed, plan-managed, or self-managed, understanding how to agree on services, find the right provider, and manage your funding is essential for getting the most from your plan.
Agreeing on NDIS Supports with Your Service Provider
Once you’ve chosen a provider, it’s time to agree on the details of your NDIS supports. This process often includes:
Defining services – what your provider will and won’t deliver
Pricing – how much you’ll pay for each support
Responsibilities – for both you and the provider
Flexibility – how to update the agreement in the future
Dispute resolution – how to handle issues if they arise
You can create a service agreement to record these details. While not always required, it’s strongly recommended for clarity — and it’s mandatory for Specialist Disability Accommodation.
Tip: Your my NDIS contact, Plan Manager support coordinator, or recovery coach can help you negotiate with providers.
Learn more about NDIS service agreements here.
When You Must Use Registered NDIS Providers
If your funding is agency-managed, you must use registered NDIS providers. This also applies — regardless of how your plan is managed — for certain supports, including:
Specialist behaviour supports involving behaviour support plans
Supports involving regulated restrictive practices
Plan management services
Specialist Disability Accommodation
Registered providers meet strict quality and safety standards set by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.
Telling the NDIS About Your Providers
For some agency-managed supports, you must tell the NDIS about your chosen providers — known as ‘my providers’ — before they can be paid. You can change providers at any time, but you’ll need to inform both the NDIS and your previous provider.
When There Are No Local Providers
If you can’t find providers in your area, speak to your my NDIS contact, support coordinator, or recovery coach. Solutions may include:
Finding services further away
Using telehealth for therapy or consultations
Exploring alternative service delivery options
How Pricing Works for NDIS Supports
The NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits outline maximum charges for most supports. Prices vary depending on whether you are:
Agency-managed – only registered providers can claim up to the maximum rate
Plan-managed – your plan manager can claim up to the maximum rate
Self-managed – you set your own rates and can pay more than the limit if you choose
Example: Megan found a lower-cost provider for her social supports, saving enough to add extra outings to her plan. Mack, who is self-managed, chose a higher-priced specialist therapist for better quality, even though it meant fewer hours.
See the current NDIS price guide here.
When You Need an Assessment or Quote
Some supports require a quote or assessment before funding can be added to your plan, including:
High-cost assistive technology
Complex home modifications
Supports with higher risks
This ensures the support is value for money and meets NDIS funding criteria.
Key Takeaways
Always set clear expectations with your provider — ideally in a written service agreement.
Some supports require registered providers, no matter how you manage your plan.
You may need to notify the NDIS of your providers before they can be paid.
Pricing limits depend on your funding management type.
If services aren’t available locally, explore telehealth and other flexible options.
Learn More
For more details, visit:
If you would like further assistance with understanding your plan get in touch with our team at Complete Money Management on 1300 161 4892