Participants can change plan managers at any point in their plan. Here's the process, typical timelines, and how to avoid double-invoicing.
- You have the legal right to change plan managers at any time — no lock-in periods are permitted under NDIS rules
- Step 1: Choose your new plan manager and confirm they are registered with the NDIS Commission and have capacity to take you on
- Step 2: Complete a change-of-provider form with your new plan manager — they will typically handle all the paperwork on your behalf
- Step 3: Notify your current plan manager in writing — most prefer 2–4 weeks notice, though this is a courtesy, not a legal requirement
- Step 4: The NDIA updates your plan in the PACE system to reflect the new plan manager — typically within 2–5 business days
- Pending invoices: your current plan manager should process all outstanding invoices before the transition — confirm this explicitly in writing
- Double-invoicing risk: give your providers the exact handover date so they send future invoices to the correct plan manager
- Budget transfer: your remaining budget balance carries over automatically — only the plan management (ILC) line item is redirected to the new provider
- Records that do not transfer: admin files, provider contact notes, or internal records held by your previous plan manager
- Red flags to watch for: plan managers who charge exit fees (not permitted under NDIS rules), delay the transition, or fail to finalise outstanding claims before handover
