My NDIS Plan Just Got Approved — What Do I Do Next? (Simple Guide for Participants & Families)

If your NDIS plan has just been Approved — Congratulations.

This is a big milestone. But it’s also completely normal to feel overwhelmed, confused, or unsure about what to do next.

Good news? You don’t need to figure everything out at once. This guide will walk you through the first steps — simply and calmly — so you can start using your plan with confidence.

✅ Step 1: Take time to read and understand your plan

Before you book services, take a little time to understand what’s in your plan.

Your plan will usually include:

• Your goals — what you want to achieve

• Funded supports — what the NDIS will pay for

• Budget categories, such as:

  • Core Supports — help with daily living, personal care, community participation

  • Capacity Building — therapies, skill-building, support coordination

  • Capital Supports — equipment & home modifications (if approved)

You’ll also see how your plan is managed:

• NDIA-managed — must use registered providers

• Plan-managed — a plan manager pays invoices for you

• Self-managed — you manage the funds yourself

• Mixed-managed — a combination of the above

📌 Tip: If something is confusing, write it down — and ask your Support Coordinator, LAC, or plan manager to explain. You don’t need to understand everything straight away.

✅ Step 2: Decide who will help you start your plan

You don’t have to do this alone.

You may have one or more of the following supports funded:

Support Coordinator

They help you:

• understand your plan

• find services

• organise supports

• build independence

Plan Manager

They:

• receive and pay invoices

• help track your spending

• explain budgets

Local Area Coordinator (LAC)

If you don’t have support coordination, your LAC is still there to help you get started.

📌 If you have Support Coordination in your plan — use it early.They make everything easier.

✅ Step 3: Think about what support you need right now

Ask yourself and your family:

• What are my biggest challenges right now?

• What supports do I need first?

• What makes daily life hard or stressful?

• What will help me reach my goals?

Examples might include:

✔ Help with personal care or daily living✔ Nursing support✔ Help getting to appointments✔ Community access✔ Therapy✔ Help building routines✔ Respite✔ Equipment support

Start with what matters most — you can add more later.

✅ Step 4: Start finding the right providers

You have choice and control. That means:

You choose who supports you, when, and how.

When looking for a provider, ask:

• Do they understand my needs?

• Do they listen?

• Do they respect my preferences?

• Can they provide consistent staff?

• Do they communicate clearly?

• Are they registered (if you’re NDIA-managed)?

• Do they have experience with my disability?

• Are they local to Melbourne / my area?

📌 You are allowed to change later if the fit isn’t right.

✅ Step 5: Set up service agreements (don’t rush!)

Most providers will ask you to sign a service agreement before supports begin.

It should clearly state:

• services provided

• costs

• cancellation policy

• notice periods

• how changes work

📌 Important: Don’t feel pressured. You are allowed to ask questions before signing.

✅ Step 6: Start using your plan — at your pace

You can begin services once:

✔ Budgets are clear✔ Service agreements are signed✔ You feel comfortable

There is no rule that says you must rush.

Think of this as a journey — not a race.

🏥 Support from Scout Nursing (Melbourne-based)

If you’re looking for RN-led, person-centred home and community care across Melbourne, Scout Nursing can support you with:

✔ Personal care & daily living✔ Community access✔ Nursing care & complex supports✔ Assistance with household tasks✔ Support coordination (Level 1 & 2)✔ Respectful, culturally-aware support✔ Flexible & consistent staffing

We work closely with participants, families, Support Coordinators & plan managers to make your first NDIS experience as smooth as possible.

🌐 www.scoutnursing.com.au

📞 03 8740 3028

(we’re always happy to simply answer questions.)

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Easy-Read)

What if I don’t understand my plan?

That’s very common. Your Support Coordinator, plan manager, or LAC can explain it in simple language.

Do I have to use registered providers?

Only if your plan is NDIA-managed. If your plan is plan-managed or self-managed, you may also use unregistered providers.

How soon do I need to start using my plan?

There’s no rush — but it’s a good idea to start within the first few weeks so you don’t fall behind.

What happens if I run out of funding?

A Support Coordinator or plan manager can help monitor spending — and adjust supports if needed.

Can I change providers later?

Yes — you can change at any time (follow the notice period in your service agreement).

What if my needs change?

You can request a plan reassessment if circumstances change.

What if I don’t have Support Coordination but need help?

Speak to your:

• Local Area Coordinator (LAC), or

• Request support coordination funding at your next review

Does the NDIS pay for everything I need?

No — the NDIS funds supports that are reasonable & necessary and related to disability. Your provider or support coordinator can help you understand what is covered.

What if I feel overwhelmed?

You’re not alone. Most families feel this way at first — and it gets easier with the right support.

🧡 Final message

Your NDIS plan is there to support your goals, independence, safety, and quality of life.

Take it one step at a time. Ask questions. Choose providers who listen and respect you. And remember — you are in control.

📌 Friendly note

This article gives general guidance only. Always check your individual NDIS plan and speak with your planner, plan manager, Support Coordinator, or LAC if you’re unsure what applies to your situation.