Understanding Funding Periods in NDIS Plans

14 Nov

The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has introduced funding periods in NDIS plans, a change that affects how participants access and manage their supports. Understanding these funding periods is essential for participants, families, and service providers to make the most of an NDIS plan.

In this blog, we’ll explain what funding periods are, how they impact service delivery, and practical strategies to manage them effectively.

What Are Funding Periods?

Funding periods are phases in an NDIS plan that determine when funds become available for use. Rather than having the full plan budget accessible from day one, the NDIA releases funds in stages throughout the plan’s duration. This ensures funding aligns with participant needs over time and encourages effective planning and use of supports.

How Funding Periods Impact Participants and Service Providers

For Participants and Families:

Plan Awareness: Knowing which supports are funded at what time helps you schedule services effectively.
Better Planning: Understanding funding periods allows you to plan your goals and activities without delays or unexpected gaps.
Maximise Your Plan: Being proactive ensures you can use your plan fully and get the most out of your supports.

For Service Providers and Support Coordinators:

Aligned Service Delivery: Services must match the timing of funding release to avoid delays or funding issues.
Budget Monitoring: Careful tracking is needed to prevent over- or under-spending within a funding period.
Effective Communication: Clear communication between providers, participants, and coordinators is essential for smooth plan execution.

Practical Tips to Manage Funding Periods

Map Out Your Plan: Know the start and end dates of your plan, along with the different funding periods.
Prioritise Supports: Identify which supports are time-sensitive and schedule them appropriately within each funding period. Consider linking to: Support Coordination or Support Work services.
Track Your Spending: Keep a simple record of supports used, dates, and remaining budget in each funding period.
Review Mid-Plan: Check for unspent funds and plan for upcoming periods to ensure your goals are achieved.
Ask Questions: Stay informed about how funding periods work and clarify any uncertainties with your support coordinator.

Why This Change Matters

Funding periods are designed to help participants receive supports when they need them most, instead of having all funds available upfront. While it adds complexity to plan management, it ensures supports are delivered more effectively over the year. By understanding funding periods, participants can make the most of their NDIS plan and achieve their goals more efficiently.

Ready Set Care Can Help

At Ready Set Care, we support participants in navigating their NDIS plans, including understanding funding periods and managing supports effectively. Our team can assist with: