What Does "Choice and Control" Mean Under the NDIS?
Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), "choice and control" refers to your right as a participant to make decisions about how your supports are provided. Even if the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) or another party manages the funding for your supports, you still have a say in how these funds are used.
Why is Choice and Control Important?
Choice and control empower you to make decisions that help you find the supports and providers that best suit your needs. It allows you the flexibility to shape your support services according to your preferences.
What is NDIS Choice?
NDIS choice involves the options available to you within your NDIS plan. You can choose your goals, the providers you work with, and the mix of supports and services that align with your needs (as long as they meet NDIS guidelines and your goals).
What is NDIS Control?
Control refers to the ability to make decisions and direct your life. In the context of the NDIS, control might include:
Deciding on your living situation
Determining how your plan is managed
Choosing when, where, and how you receive your supports
Making changes to your plan
How Does Choice and Control Work in Action?
Your NDIS plan is designed to help you achieve your goals, and choice and control allow you to do this on your own terms. Let’s look at an example to better understand how choice and control work together:
Imagine you want to go out and see a band play.
You can choose when and where to receive support, so you can find a provider to assist you on this outing.
You also have control over the type of support you receive, perhaps choosing a support worker who shares an interest in music or is comfortable in that environment.
Finally, you can negotiate a fair rate with your provider that fits your budget.
This example illustrates how choice and control give you the freedom to shape your support services to suit your lifestyle.
How Does Choice and Control Relate to NDIS Funding?
As an NDIS participant, you have the right to decide how your funding and supports are used, though this flexibility varies depending on the category of funding.
Flexibility with Core SupportsYour Core Supports budget is the most flexible. You can use this funding across different categories, giving you more options to tailor your supports.
Capital and Capacity Building SupportsThese categories are more restricted. Capital funds can only be used for specific items listed in your plan, and Capacity funds must be used for the designated category.
Making Changes to Your NDIS Plan
Your NDIS plan should align with your goals, but changes can occur. If your needs or goals change, you can contact the NDIS to request adjustments.
Plan Variations may be made for minor changes, while plan reassessments may be necessary for significant adjustments.
If your plan does not align with NDIS guidelines, changes may be made to how your plan is managed. For self-managed participants, this could mean transitioning to agency management, which may limit flexibility in choosing providers and pricing.
How Plan Management Offers More Choice and Control?
Working with a Plan Manager gives you more flexibility and control over your funding compared to agency management, without the complexities of self-management. Plan Management allows you to make decisions about your providers and services while freeing up time and energy from administrative tasks.
You can request Plan Management as part of your NDIS plan, and it will be funded from the Improved Life Choices budget.
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