Section outline

    • When you’re self-managing your NDIS plan, you have more freedom to choose who provides your supports. This means you can hire a business, a contractor, or even directly employ support staff. In this module, we’ll go over the main ways to buy supports and what you need to consider for each option.

    • Options for Purchasing Supports

      1. Buy Your Supports from a Business or Organisation

      • Overview: You can buy supports from any business that meets your needs. This includes both NDIS-registered and unregistered providers.
      • NDIS-Registered Providers: These providers follow strict rules set by the NDIS.
      • Unregistered Providers: You can still use unregistered providers, but you need to keep good records of the services they provide.
      • Key Points:
        • Tell providers that you’re self-managing your plan.
        • Always ask for receipts for each purchase. This is important for your records.

      2. Use Self-Employed Contractors

      • Overview: Contractors work for themselves and have their own Australian Business Number (ABN). They manage their own insurance, taxes, and superannuation.
      • Checklist for Hiring a Contractor:
        • Make sure they have an ABN (check this at the Australian Business Register site).
        • Ensure they have relevant safety checks (e.g., Working with Children Check, if needed).
        • Check their insurance coverage.
        • Confirm they have the skills and qualifications needed for the job.
      • Invoice Requirements: For unregistered providers, make sure they provide detailed invoices. See the NDIS Unregistered Provider Invoice Checklist for more information.

      3. Directly Employ Staff

      • Overview: Direct employment means you hire support workers as your own staff. This gives you more control but also more responsibility.
      • Your Responsibilities:
        • Fair Wages: Make sure you’re paying fair wages, following industry standards.
        • Superannuation: You’ll need to pay superannuation (retirement savings) for your employees.
        • Insurance: Get insurance, like workers’ compensation, in case of workplace injuries.
        • Taxes: Follow tax requirements, like paying income tax for your staff.
      • Getting Help: Consider hiring an accountant or using an employment agency to help manage these responsibilities.

      Read more on the NDIS website.

    • Keeping Records of Your Purchases

      No matter which option you choose, always keep records of:

      • Invoices and Receipts: Proof of what you’ve paid for.
      • Service Agreements: Contracts that outline what services will be provided and at what cost.
      • Safety Checks: Copies of any safety checks for contractors or employees.

      Keeping these records makes it easier if the NDIS reviews your spending or if you need to track where your funding has gone.

    • Activity: Decide Which Option Works Best for You
      1. Think about the supports you need. Would a business, contractor, or direct hire be the best fit?
      2. Make a list of important things to ask providers (e.g., do they have insurance, what are their rates?).
      3. Write down one reason you might choose an NDIS-registered provider vs. an unregistered provider.
    • True or False H5P
    • Quick Quiz H5P
    • Helpful Links