Make an easy switch

Changes to NDIS rules have made it even easier for participants to have their plans managed by a disability sector expert at no extra cost. When it comes to managing an NDIS plan, some of the most difficult and time consuming tasks for participants are keeping track of budgets, paying providers and maintaining records. An experienced plan manager, such as Capalaba-based Disability Plan Services, can manage all these tasks on behalf of any participant who has this option included as part of their plan. Due to COVID-19 prompting changes from the Federal Government, NDIS participants who wish to switch to plan management can now do so with a faster turnaround and without any eligibility requirements. Plans due to expire will be automatically extended for another year. Disability Plan Services founder Alex Shaw said the changes made it easier for participants to access critical supports that ensured they would continue to get the most out of their plans. “Plan managers offer a great service to NDIS participants as they take care of difficult administration, record keeping and budgeting that is required when managing a plan,” Ms Shaw said. “It is also important that people get a personalised experience with their plan manager to make sure the recommendations they’re receiving will work best for them.” Bayside resident Noel Conquest has experienced the benefits of plan management firsthand as his wife Bronwyn is living with a disability caused by a stroke. Seeking a new option for plan management after the NDIS launched in South-East Queensland, Noel and Bronwyn approached Disability Plan Services at their office in Capalaba Central Shopping Centre. “We used to work with another provider before the NDIS rolled out but then we saw the shopfront in Capalaba and after meeting Alex and her team we knew they would provide a great service, and they do,” Mr Conquest said. “They’re very proactive and always take the time to check up on us to make sure we’re doing okay and have all the supports we need.” Plan managed funding (plan management) is one of three options that NDIS participants have to decide how to manage their funding.