Key Takeaways from Webinar: Legislation changes for Plan Managers
We recently attended an NDIS Info Webinar that covered important legislative changes impacting plan managers. Here’s a breakdown of what we learned and how it may affect you.
What’s changing for Plan Managers?
The updates reinforce the responsibilities of plan managers, ensuring that:
Only approved NDIS supports can be accessed.
Ethical and honest conduct is maintained when working with participants and the NDIS.
Payment and funding structures are more transparent.
Claims and spending align with new legislative guidelines.
Planning-related updates
Section 10: What counts as an NDIS support?
The definition of NDIS supports has been refined.
New rules will clearly outline what is and isn’t covered.
Consequences are in place for claiming non-funded supports.
Replacement Supports: Some supports may be replaced, but only if approved by the NDIS. These decisions cannot be reviewed.
Participants must provide approval letters for replacement supports.
An interim claiming process is in place for new payment queries.
Section 33: Changes to Plan Funding
Funding will now be allocated over time rather than in lump sums.
New plans will specify total funding amounts, funding components, and funding periods.
Funding Periods: A new system where funds must be used within a set timeframe (initially 12 months). This won’t reduce total plan funds but adds structure to spending.
Over time, a new planning framework will shift the focus to needs-based assessments rather than line-by-line support approval.
Timeline for Changes:
Interim Phase: October 2024 – March 2025 (Legislative changes passed).
Pace Enhancement Phase: March 2025 – Mid-2025 (Operational changes implemented).
Future Framework: Mid-2025 onwards.
Section 44: Compliance and oversight
The NDIA will assess whether participants comply with Section 46, ensuring funds are used as intended.
In some cases, the NDIA may change a participant’s plan management type if funds are mismanaged.
Section 45A: Updated claiming process
New guidelines clarify how claims should be submitted.
Claims must be lodged within two years of the support being provided.
Section 32BA: Impairment notices
Participants will receive an impairment notice when accessing the NDIS or transitioning to a new framework.
This notice will outline the specific impairments that qualified them under disability or early intervention criteria.
Impairments may include:
Intellectual
Cognitive
Sensory
Neurological
Physical
Psycho-social impairments
What this means for Plan Managers
Plan managers should:
Stay updated and ensure compliance with the new regulations.
Process claims according to the new guidelines.
Maintain accurate financial records and provide regular financial reports.
Facilitate access to a variety of service providers while ensuring compliance.
Inform participants or their representatives if they are overspending or misusing funds.
Staying informed and proactive will be key to navigating this evolving landscape. For more details, refer to official NDIS updates or seek professional guidance as needed.
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