FAQ — Steadfast Plan Management

Question 1

What is NDIS Plan Management?

Accepted Answer

Plan management is a support option within the NDIS that allows a registered plan manager (like Steadfast) to handle the financial administration of your NDIS plan on your behalf. This includes processing invoices, submitting payment claims to the NDIS, receiving funds, and paying your providers.

Question 2

Is plan management free for participants?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Plan management is funded separately by the NDIS under the "Improved Life Choices" support category. It does not come out of your other support budgets. There are no fees or charges to you as a participant.

Question 3

What are the different ways I can manage my NDIS plan?

Accepted Answer

There are three options: (1) NDIA-managed — the NDIS pays providers directly, but you can only use registered providers. (2) Self-managed — you manage your own funding and can use any provider. (3) Plan-managed — a registered plan manager like Steadfast handles the finances, and you can use both registered and non-registered providers.

Question 4

What are the benefits of choosing plan management over self-management?

Accepted Answer

Plan management gives you the flexibility to use non-registered providers (like self-management) without the administrative burden. You don't need to manage invoices, submit claims, or keep financial records yourself — we handle all of that. You get the best of both worlds: choice and freedom, without the paperwork.

Question 5

How do I add plan management to my NDIS plan?

Accepted Answer

At your next NDIS plan meeting or review, ask your NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to include "Improved Life Choices" funding in your plan. This is the funding category that covers plan management. Once it's included, you can choose Steadfast as your plan manager.

Question 6

Can I switch to Steadfast if I already have a plan manager?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can change plan managers at any time. You'll need to give your current plan manager notice (check your service agreement for the notice period), then register with us. We'll guide you through the transition to make it as smooth as possible.

Question 7

What information do I need to provide to get started?

Accepted Answer

To get started, we'll need your NDIS participant number, a copy of your current NDIS plan, and details of your support providers. We'll walk you through everything when you contact us — it's a straightforward process.

Question 8

How long does it take to set up?

Accepted Answer

Once we have your details and your plan includes plan management funding, we can typically have you set up within a few business days. We'll let you know as soon as everything is ready.

Question 9

Can I still choose my own support providers?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. With plan management, you have the freedom to choose from both NDIS-registered and non-registered providers. This gives you much more flexibility than NDIA-managed plans, which are limited to registered providers only.

Question 10

How do I know how much funding I have left?

Accepted Answer

We provide regular statements and payment records so you always know your current funding balance. If you ever have questions about your funding, just contact us and we'll give you a clear, up-to-date summary.

Question 11

What happens if a provider sends an incorrect invoice?

Accepted Answer

We review every invoice before processing it. If we notice a discrepancy — such as an incorrect amount, wrong support category, or a charge that doesn't align with your plan — we'll contact the provider to resolve it before any payment is made. We protect your funding.

Question 12

Can my family member or carer deal with Steadfast on my behalf?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you have a nominee, guardian, or someone with power of attorney, they can work with us on your behalf. We're happy to communicate with whoever is most appropriate for your situation.

Question 13

How do I submit an invoice to Steadfast?

Accepted Answer

Simply send your invoice to our email address at admin@steadfastplanmanagement.com.au. Please include the participant's name, NDIS number, the support item number, dates of service, and the amount. We'll process it promptly.

Question 14

How quickly will I be paid?

Accepted Answer

We aim to process invoices and pay providers as quickly as possible. Once we receive a valid invoice and the NDIS approves the payment claim, we process payment promptly. Timely payment is a priority for us.

Question 15

Do I need to be a registered NDIS provider to work with Steadfast participants?

Accepted Answer

No. Because Steadfast is a registered plan manager, our participants can use both registered and non-registered providers. As long as the support aligns with the participant's NDIS plan, we can process your invoice.

Question 16

What should I do if I have a question about a payment?

Accepted Answer

Contact us directly by phone or email. We're happy to discuss any payment queries and will respond promptly. We value our relationships with providers and want to make the process as smooth as possible for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Plan Management

Getting Started

For Participants & Families

For Providers

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