Ndis-provider-direct-funding

Written by Ibrahim Sesay on September 12, 2025. Posted in NDIS Funding & Plan Management, NDIS Guides & Resources.

Introduction

The NDIS is built on the principle of choice and control. A central part of this is deciding how your plan funds are managed. Your choice between NDIA-managed, plan-managed, or self-managed significantly influences your flexibility in selecting providers and the administrative responsibilities you’ll have. Let’s explore each option.

NDIA-Managed (Agency-Managed)

How it works: The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) pays your providers on your behalf. Providers submit invoices directly to the NDIA via the myplace portal. This option requires the least administrative effort from you.
Provider Choice: The main limitation is that you can only use NDIS registered providers. This is the scenario most commonly referred to as “Direct NDIS Funding.”
Statistics: As of the latest NDIS quarterly report, a significant portion of participants utilise agency management for at least some of their funds, highlighting its popularity for those seeking simplicity. However, there is a growing trend towards other models that offer more flexibility (NDIS Quarterly Report, Q4 2023).

Plan-Managed: The Balanced Approach

How it works: A Plan Management provider (a registered provider) acts as your dedicated bookkeeper. They pay your invoices, track your budget, and provide financial statements, offering peace of mind and oversight.
Provider Choice: This option offers excellent balance. You can use both NDIS registered and non-registered providers, giving you greater flexibility than an NDIA-managed plan.
Citations: The NDIS explicitly outlines plan management as a right for all participants, stating it is a support designed to “increase your ability to exercise choice and control and to manage the funding in your plan” (NDIS Website, ‘What is Plan Management’).

Self-Managed: Maximum Choice and Control

How it works: You are in full control. You pay your providers directly and then claim reimbursement from your NDIS budget through the myplace portal. This gives you real-time insight into your spending.
Provider Choice: Self-management offers the highest level of choice. You can engage any qualified provider (registered or not), negotiate rates, and build a truly tailored support team.
Statistics & Citations: Research indicates that participants who self-manage their plans often report higher levels of satisfaction and feelings of empowerment. A study by the University of Melbourne found that self-management allows for greater innovation and personalisation of supports, leading to better outcomes (University of Melbourne, 2021).

Checklist: How to Confirm a Provider Accepts “Direct Funding” (NDIA-Managed)

If your plan is NDIA-Managed, confirming a provider’s eligibility is crucial. Follow this three-step process:

Ask the Provider Directly: Contact them and ask, “Do you accept participants with NDIA-managed plans?” A reputable provider will be transparent.
Look for Proof of Registration: Check their website or materials for their NDIS registration number.
Use the Official NDIS Provider Finder: The most reliable method is to search for the provider on the official NDIS Provider Finder tool on the NDIS website. This is the definitive database maintained by the agency.

Key Takeaway: If your plan is Self-Managed or Plan-Managed, the provider’s registration status is not a barrier. You have the freedom to choose the best fit for your needs, as per NDIS guidelines.

How We Work Seamlessly with Your Plan

At Love and Hope with No Steps, we are a fully registered NDIS provider (Registration #: 4-8TZ7ZNK), committed to removing administrative barriers.

We welcome participants with all management types:

NDIA-Managed (Direct Funding): We handle payments directly with the NDIA.
Plan-Managed: We work with your Plan Manager for prompt invoicing.
Self-Managed: We provide clear invoices for easy reimbursement.

Our team is your partner. We help you understand your plan and ensure your journey is smooth and focused on your goals.

Have questions? We’re here to help.

📞 Call: 0432 690 241
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What does “direct NDIS funding” mean?
A: This term typically refers to an NDIA-managed plan, where the NDIA handles payments directly with registered providers. It’s one of three management options described in the NDIS Act 2013.

Q: How do I know if a provider accepts direct funding?
A: Confirm they are an NDIS-registered provider by asking them, checking for their registration number, or using the official NDIS Provider Finder website. This is a requirement for NDIA-managed plans.

Q: Does Love and Hope with No Steps accept direct NDIS funding?
A: Yes. As a registered NDIS provider, we accept all plan management types: NDIA-managed, plan-managed, and self-managed, in alignment with the scheme’s goal of participant choice.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You

Choosing how to manage your NDIS funds is a personal decision that balances your desire for control with your capacity for administration. If you prefer a hands-off approach, NDIA-managed is straightforward. If you want a balance of flexibility and support, plan-management is ideal. For those seeking maximum choice and direct control, self-management is the path.

No matter your choice, the goal is the same: to use your NDIS plan effectively to achieve your goals. By understanding these options and their implications for provider choice, you can confidently select the management style that best empowers you to build a fulfilling and supported life.

Sources:

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). (2023). NDIS Quarterly Report to Disability Ministers for Q4 2023. NDIS.
National Disability Insurance Agency. (n.d.). What is Plan Management?. Retrieved from NDIS website.
University of Melbourne. (2021). NDIS Self-Management: Experiences and Outcomes. Melbourne School of Government.

NDIS Plan Review Support | Love and Hope with No Steps

Written by Ibrahim Sesay on September 12, 2025. Posted in NDIS Guides & Resources, NDIS Support or NDIS Guides.

Introduction

An NDIS plan review is a crucial opportunity to ensure your funding and supports continue to align with your life and goals. However, the process—with its paperwork, evidence requirements, and meetings—can feel daunting. The most important thing to know is that you are not expected to navigate it alone. This guide will walk you through the different types of assistance available, providing a clear action plan to help you approach your next review with confidence and clarity.

Why Your NDIS Plan Review is So Important

Think of your plan review not as a test, but as a strategic check-in. It’s your chance to:

Reflect on Progress: What have you achieved with your current supports?
Adjust to Change: Have your needs, living situation, or aspirations changed?
Solve Problems: Are there unmet needs or supports that aren’t working effectively?
Plan for the Future: What new goals do you want to pursue in the coming year?

Getting the right assistance ensures your review accurately captures your situation, leading to a plan that truly works for you.

How to Get Assistance with Your NDIS Plan Review: Your Support Team

Building a support team is key to a successful review. Here are the key people and services that can help.

1. Support Coordination (A Dedicated Expert)

If you have Support Coordination included in your plan, this is its primary purpose. Your Support Coordinator is your project manager for the review.

Their Role: They help you gather necessary reports from therapists and providers, prepare for the meeting, articulate your needs clearly, and ensure all documentation is submitted correctly.
How to Access: Check your plan for this funding category.

2. Your Trusted Providers (The Evidence Gatherers)

Your current therapists and support providers are essential allies. They hold the objective data on your progress.

Their Role: They can provide detailed reports (e.g., progress notes, functional assessments, letters of recommendation) that demonstrate the impact of your supports and justify ongoing or changed needs.
Action Step: Proactively request these reports from your Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist, Support Workers, etc., several weeks before your review.

3. Independent Advocacy Services (Your Voice Amplifier)

If you feel your voice isn’t being heard, independent advocacy organisations are available.

Their Role: Advocates ensure you understand your rights, can help you prepare your points, and may attend meetings with you to provide support and ensure you can participate fully.
How to Access: Search for “disability advocacy” in your state or territory. These services are typically free and independent of the NDIS.

4. Your Personal Network (Your Emotional & Practical Support)

Never underestimate the power of a trusted friend, family member, or carer.

Their Role: They know your daily life intimately. They can help you remember key points during the meeting, provide emotional support, and offer a second perspective on what’s working and what isn’t.
Important Note: You have the right to bring any support person you choose to your plan review meeting.

Your Pre-Review Checklist: Be Prepared, Not Scared

Being prepared is the best way to reduce stress. Here’s what you can do in the weeks leading up to your review:

✅ Keep a Simple Journal: For a few weeks, note down your daily challenges and successes. How do your current supports help? Where are there gaps? This real-life evidence is powerful.
✅ Gather Professional Evidence: Collect recent reports and letters from your GP, specialists, and allied health professionals. These documents provide the clinical justification for your requests.
✅ Review and Refresh Your Goals: Are your current NDIS goals still relevant? Write down any new goals you have. Goals should be specific, meaningful, and achievable with the right supports.
✅ Be Honest About Challenges: Clearly identify what isn’t working in your current plan. The NDIA needs to understand the problem to approve a solution.
✅ Know What to Ask For: Connect your challenges to specific requests. Instead of “I need more support,” try “I require an additional 2 hours of support worker time per week to access the community and work on my social goals.”

How Love and Hope with No Steps Can Assist with Your Plan Review

At Love and Hope with No Steps, we are dedicated to ensuring you feel empowered and prepared for your plan review. As a registered NDIS provider, we offer concrete support to make the process seamless:

Expert Support Coordination: Our dedicated coordinators will work alongside you to manage the entire process, from evidence gathering to meeting preparation.
Detailed Provider Reports: We provide comprehensive reports that clearly outline your progress, the value of your current supports, and our recommendations for the future.
Collaborative Goal-Setting Sessions: We help you articulate your aspirations into clear, actionable goals that form the foundation of your new plan.
Guidance and Rehearsal: We ensure you walk into your review feeling confident, prepared, and clear about what you want to achieve.

You don’t have to face your plan review alone. Let our team provide the support you need to secure the right plan.

📞 Call us on 0432 690 241 for a friendly, no-obligation chat.
✉️ Email us at [email protected] to start the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I get help with my NDIS plan review?
A: Absolutely. You can get assistance from a Support Coordinator (if funded in your plan), your current providers, independent advocacy services, and your personal network of family and carers.

Q: What is the most important thing to do before a plan review?
A: Preparation is key. This includes gathering recent reports from your health professionals, keeping a journal of your support needs, and clearly defining your goals for the future.

Q: Does Love and Hope with No Steps help with plan reviews?
A: Yes, we do. We offer comprehensive support, including Support Coordination, professional provider reports, and goal-setting assistance, to ensure you are fully prepared and confident for your NDIS plan review.

NDIS Transport Funding Explained: Access Community & Social Participation

Written by Ibrahim Sesay on September 12, 2025. Posted in NDIS choice and control, NDIS Guides & Resources.

Why Transport Matters

For people with disability, reliable transport is not a luxury it’s a fundamental key to independence, social connection, and well-being. It’s the bridge to healthcare appointments, employment, education, and social events. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) recognises that lack of transport is a major barrier to participation. Consequently, it provides a range of transport support options designed to help participants get where they need to go safely and with dignity.

Key Statistic: According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), people with disability are almost three times more likely to have unmet transport needs than those without a disability. This highlights the critical importance of targeted support in this area (ABS, 2019).

NDIS Transport Supports Explained

The NDIS funds transport in several ways, depending on a participant’s individual needs and goals. Understanding these categories is the first step to accessing the right support.

1. Transport Funding (Travel Allowance)

This is a regular payment included in a participant’s Core Supports budget to help cover the costs of travel.

Purpose: For participants who cannot use public transport due to their disability.
How it Works: The funding is paid directly to the participant, not a provider, to use for taxis, rideshare services, or other private transport options.
Funding Levels: The NDIS typically allocates one of three levels based on specific criteria, including whether the participant is working, studying, or undertaking regular activities that require travel.
Important Note: This funding is intended for day-to-day travel needs, not for specialist transport like ambulances, which remain the responsibility of the health system.

2. Assistance with Travel/Transport Arrangements

This support involves a support worker assisting you with your travel needs. It is one of the most flexible and commonly used options.

How it Works: A support worker can drive you in their vehicle or accompany you on public transport to appointments, shopping, or social activities.
Skill Development: Beyond just a ride, this support can include public transport training—helping you build the skills and confidence to use buses, trains, and trams independently over time.
Funding Category: This is funded under Core Supports – Assistance with Social and Community Participation (Support Category 1_117). The cost is paid directly to the provider for the support worker’s time.

Citation: The NDIS Operational Guidelines clarify that supports should “assist a participant to travel to and/or from a community-based activity,” reinforcing its goal of fostering participation (NDIS, ‘Reasonable and Necessary Supports’).

3. Vehicle Modifications

For participants who own or frequently travel in a vehicle, modifications may be necessary.

Purpose: To adapt a vehicle so a participant can travel as a driver or passenger.
Examples: This can include wheelchair hoists, ramps, electronic driving controls, and swivel seats.
Funding Category: Funded under Capital Supports – Assistive Technology. This requires assessment by a qualified occupational therapist to ensure the modifications are appropriate and effective.

4. Community Access Programs

Many providers offer group-based activities that include transport as an integral part of the service.

How it Works: A provider organises a social or recreational outing and arranges transport to and from the activity for the group.
Benefits: This is an excellent way to build social connections, participate in the community, and access transport in a cost-effective and supported group setting.

How We Can Help with Transport at Love and Hope with No Steps

Navigating NDIS transport rules can be complex. At Love and Hope with No Steps, we are committed to helping you unlock your mobility and independence. Our services are designed to provide practical solutions tailored to your plan and goals.

We support participants with transport by:

Providing Support Workers: Our friendly and experienced staff can drive you to appointments, social events, and community activities in a safe and comfortable manner.
Offering Skill-Building Support: We go beyond just driving. We can assist with public transport training, helping you learn routes, plan journeys, and build the confidence to travel more independently.
Facilitating Group Outings: Our community access programs often include transport, making it easy to join social groups and explore your local area with peers.
Providing Plan Support: We can help you understand your transport funding and, if needed, support you during plan reviews to ensure you have the appropriate level of funding for your needs.

📞 Call us on 0432 690 241 or email [email protected] to learn more about how we can support your transport needs in Sydney.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Does the NDIS fund transport?
A: Yes. If your disability prevents you from using public transport, you may receive a transport allowance or funding for supported travel under ‘Assistance with Social and Community Participation’.

Q: Can a support worker drive me to appointments?
A: Absolutely. This is a common and accepted use of your Core Supports budget (category 1_117) for a support worker to transport you as part of assisting you to participate in the community.

Q: What about modifying my car?
A: Yes, the NDIS can fund vehicle modifications under Capital Supports (Assistive Technology) if they are deemed reasonable and necessary for you to travel due to your disability. An occupational therapist assessment is required.

Q: Does Love and Hope with No Steps provide transport?
A: Yes. We offer transport as a key part of our community-based supports. This includes having support workers drive you and providing training to build your independent travel skills.

How Do I Compare Pricing for Different NDIS Service Providers?

Written by Ibrahim Sesay on September 12, 2025. Posted in NDIS Guides & Resources, NDIS Information / Managing Your NDIS Plan.

Introduction

Comparing prices between NDIS providers is a smart way to manage your budget, but it can be confusing. While the NDIS Price Guide sets maximum limits, the cost you see on paper doesn’t always tell the whole story. True value comes from understanding what’s included in that price and how well a provider aligns with your needs. This guide will walk you through a simple, three-step process to compare NDIS provider pricing effectively, ensuring you make a confident decision based on both cost and quality.

Step 1: Understand the NDIS Price Guide Framework

The NDIS Price Guide is your essential starting point. It ensures fairness by setting the maximum amounts registered providers can charge for specific supports. Prices aren’t arbitrary; they vary based on several key factors:

Time and Day: Rates are higher for evenings, weekends, and public holidays compared to standard weekday hours.
Support Ratio: A 1:1 (individual) support session costs more per hour than a 2:1 (shared) or group support session, which spreads the cost.
Type of Support: Different line items have different rates. For example, Assistance with Social and Community Participation has a different price point than Therapeutic Supports or Personal Care.

Key Takeaway: Two providers charging the same hourly rate for the same support item (e.g., weekday 1:1 community access) are operating within the same pricing framework. The difference lies in what you get for that rate.

Step 2: Look Beyond the Hourly Rate – Compare What’s Included

This is the most critical step in your comparison. When two providers have similar prices, ask these questions to uncover the real value:

Staff Expertise: Are support workers qualified? Do they have specific training in areas relevant to your needs (e.g., mental health, complex physical needs, working with children)?
What’s Included in the Rate? Is transport included, or is it billed separately? Are any activity costs covered, or are they an out-of-pocket expense?
Consistency and Reliability: Does the provider guarantee consistent support workers? Building a relationship with the same worker leads to better outcomes and more reliable service.
Flexibility and Policies: What are their cancellation policies? Are they understanding and flexible if your needs change?
Communication: How quickly do they respond to enquiries? Are they proactive in their communication?

A provider charging a slightly higher rate but offering highly qualified staff, included transport, and excellent communication often delivers far greater value than a cheaper, less reliable alternative.

Step 3: Prioritise Quality and Fit for True Value

The cheapest option is not always the most cost-effective in the long run. Consider these non-negotiable quality factors:

Reliability: Will your supports be delivered consistently and on time? Unreliable service can disrupt your routine and waste your plan funding.
Person-Centred Approach: Do they treat you with dignity and respect? Do they listen to your goals and tailor their support to you?
Positive Reviews and Reputation: What do other participants say about them? Look for testimonials or ask for references.
Values Alignment: Does the provider’s mission and values resonate with you? A good fit leads to a more positive and productive relationship.

How Love and Hope with No Steps Delivers Fair Pricing and Exceptional Value

At Love and Hope with No Steps, we believe in complete transparency and delivering service that exceeds expectations. Our approach to pricing is designed to give you peace of mind and real value.

✅ Strict Adherence to the NDIS Price Guide: We charge fairly and transparently in line with the latest NDIS Price Guide, with no hidden fees.
✅ Expertise You Can Trust: Our team is led by qualified professionals, meaning you receive support from experienced individuals, not just a warm body.
✅ Clear Service Agreements: We explain all costs and terms upfront, ensuring you understand exactly what you are paying for.
✅ Flexible Support Options: We offer both individual and group supports to help you make the most of your NDIS funding without compromising on quality.

Ready to find a provider that offers true value for your NDIS plan? Let’s have a conversation about your needs.

📞 Call us on 0432 690 241 for a clear, no-obligation discussion about our services and pricing.
✉️ Email us at [email protected] to get specific information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are NDIS prices the same for every provider?
A: Not exactly. All registered providers must charge within the maximum limits set by the NDIS Price Guide. However, their specific rates for a given support item can vary, and the quality of service, staff expertise, and what’s included can differ significantly.

Q: Why do NDIS prices vary?
A: Prices vary based on objective factors like the time of day (weekday vs. weekend), the type of support, and whether it’s individual or group-based. These variations are standard across the scheme.

Q: How do I know if I’m getting good value for money?
A: Look beyond the price. Value comes from reliability, staff qualifications, clear communication, and a provider’s ability to help you achieve your goals. A slightly higher rate with exceptional service is better value than a cheap rate with poor reliability.

Q: Does Love and Hope with No Steps follow the NDIS Price Guide?
A: Yes, absolutely. We are committed to transparent pricing and charge strictly in accordance with the NDIS Price Guide. We provide clear service agreements so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Understanding In-Home and Community NDIS Support

Written by Ibrahim Sesay on September 12, 2025. Posted in NDIS Guides & Resources.

Understanding NDIS Support Options

The NDIS funds different types of support to help people with disability live independently and participate in their communities. Two of the most common types are in-home support and community-based support.

While they may overlap, they serve different purposes. Knowing the difference helps participants and families choose the right mix of supports.

What Is In-Home Support?

In-home support is delivered in your own home, helping you with everyday personal and domestic tasks.
Examples include:

Personal care (showering, dressing, grooming).
Meal preparation and nutrition support.
Medication reminders and health routines.
Housework (cleaning, laundry, home safety).
Companionship or supervision at home.

Goal: To keep you safe, comfortable, and supported where you live.
NDIS funding category: Core Supports – Assistance with Daily Life (S107).

What Is Community-Based Support?

Community-based support happens outside your home and focuses on social participation, skill-building, and independence.
Examples include:

Attending medical appointments.
Shopping and budgeting support.
Social and cultural activities.
Joining group programs and outings.
Travel training and using public transport.

Goal: To connect you with others, build skills, and increase independence in the wider community.
NDIS funding categories: Core Supports – Community Participation (S117), or Capacity Building – Social & Community Participation.

In-Home vs. Community Support: A Simple Comparison

In-Home Support 🏠	Community-Based Support 🌍
Delivered at your home.	Delivered outside your home.
Focus on daily tasks (personal care, cooking, cleaning).	Focus on social activities, independence, and inclusion.
Usually 1:1 care.	1:1 or group-based support.
Keeps you safe and comfortable at home.	Helps you connect, grow, and participate in the community.

Why Both Matter

In-home support provides stability.
Community support builds confidence and connection.
Together, they form a complete picture of independence and quality of life.

How We Can Help

At love and hope with no steps, we offer both in-home and community-based supports across Sydney. Our team is multicultural, trauma-informed, and led by qualified social workers — meaning we don’t just provide tasks, we provide holistic care.

📞 Call us today on 0432 690 241 or email [email protected] to discuss the right supports for you.

2. FAQ Version (Services Page)

What is in-home NDIS support?
Support provided inside your home (personal care, meals, cleaning, medication reminders).

What is community-based NDIS support?
Support delivered outside the home (appointments, shopping, social activities, skill development).

What’s the difference?

🏠 In-home = stability, comfort, daily living.
🌍 Community = independence, connection, participation.

Can I have both types of support?
Yes, many participants use a mix of in-home and community-based supports to achieve their goals.