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Participant Toolbox

Welcome to your Participant Toolbox - Your go-to space for helpful resources, guides and forms to help you get the most of your NDIS plan with NDSP.
Everything you need, all in one convenient place.

NDIS terms made simple

NDIS language can be confusing – we’ve broken down some of the most common terms you’ll come across – and what they mean in real life.


Your plan and funding:

Plan management is one of three ways to manage your NDIS funding. This is a funded support for eligible NDIS participants called Choice and Control (Improved Life Choices).

NDSP pays your invoices, tracks your budget and takes care of the paperwork - so you can focus on your goals.

Learn more: NDIS Self Managed vs Plan Managed vs Agency Managed Explained

This is your most flexible funding. It covers day-to-day support like help with personal care, cooking or getting around.

Learn more: NDIS Core Supports budget 101: Everything You Need to Know – NDSP Plan Managers

This funding helps you build independence. Things like skill-building, therapy, training or support to get and keep a job. You may need a functional capacity assessment as evidence for some supports – that funding also comes from this budget.

Used for ‘big ticket’ items like assistive technology or home modifications. These must be pre-approved and can’t be used for other things. 

These are locked-in supports that must be used exactly as described in your plan – no swapping!

In-Kind is a temporary funding arrangement. These are services already booked and paid for by the government – you don’t choose the provider. These are being phased out over time. 

Your support team:

A Support Coordinator helps you organise your supports, connect with services and get the most out of your plan. They’re a bit like your NDIS sidekick.

Your LAC helps you understand and use your NDIS plan. They guide you through the process and link you with services in your community.

Supports families with kids under the age of 9 who have a developmental delay or disability. They help build skills early to support future independence.

A business or person that delivers NDIS services. They could be a support worker, therapist, cleaner – anyone who helps with your funded supports.

These are the unpaid people in your life who support you – like family, friends or neighbours. They’re not part of your NDIS funding, but they’re still an important part of your support network.

Learn more: What are Informal Supports under the NDIS? – NDSP Plan Managers

From the NDSP blog

We pride ourselves on our knowledge of the NDIS and our articles relating directly to the NDIS have become a tool for us to stay up to date while creating an opportunity for you to do the same …

Assistive Technology (AT) Under $1500: Low-Risk Items That Can Transform Your Daily Life

Assistive Technology (AT) Under $1500: Low-Risk Items That Can Transform Your Daily Life

From non-slip bathmats to adaptive kitchen tools, low-cost assistive technology can make a real difference to daily life. Here's what the NDIS may fund, and what to watch out for.

Read MoreMay 12, 2026
Navigating the NDIS as a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Participant

Navigating the NDIS as a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Participant

The NDIS has its own complex language... and that's before translation. If you're a CALD participant or supporting someone who is, here's some options to help you navigate the NDIS.

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Aging with a Disability: Transitioning from the NDIS to Aged Care

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Turning 65 doesn't mean you have to leave the NDIS. Here's what participants should know about their options — and what to consider before you leave the scheme.

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Your Rights in an NDIS Planning Meeting: Can You Bring a Supporter?

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Read MoreMay 6, 2026
How NDIS Providers & Plan Managers Can Work Together for Participants

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When your NDIS providers and plan manager work as a team, invoices get processed faster, issues get resolved sooner, and you spend less time on admin.

Read MoreMay 1, 2026
5 Red Flags Indicating You Need to Change NDIS Plan Manager

5 Red Flags Indicating You Need to Change NDIS Plan Manager

Not happy with your NDIS plan manager? Learn when it's time to switch, and how to find a provider who truly has your back.

Read MoreApril 27, 2026