Understanding Choice and Control in the NDIS: What’s New for Participants

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is built on the principle that participants should have the power to make decisions about the supports and services they receive. This is known as choice and control. 

With the introduction of the PACE (Participant-Centric Engagement) system, the way choice and control are applied has been updated to provide participants with more clarity, flexibility, and authority in how their plans are managed. 

Here’s what these changes mean, and how participants can make the most of them. 

What Is Choice and Control? 

Under the NDIS, participants have the right to decide: 

• What supports they receive 

• Who delivers those supports 

• When and where they are delivered 

• How NDIS funds are managed 

This empowers participants to tailor services to align with their personal goals, cultural needs, and preferred routines. 

How the PACE System Improves Choice and Control 

The new PACE system offers a clearer and more participant-friendly way to engage with NDIS plans. Key improvements include: 

1. Clearer Funding Categories 

Plans now clearly indicate which supports are flexible, fixed, or stated, helping participants understand where they have full control. 

2. Detailed Plan Summaries 

Participants receive more accessible summaries that break down each part of their plan and where choices can be made. 

3. Better Communication 

Planning meetings now encourage participants to share how they want to live, rather than just what supports they use. Planners are trained to listen and record participant preferences more thoroughly. 

Managing Your Funding 

Participants can choose how their funding is managed: 

• Self-managed – full control over spending and choice of providers (registered or unregistered) 

• Plan-managed – flexibility with financial assistance and access to more providers 

• NDIA-managed – funding used with registered providers only 

Participants can use one method for all budgets or mix and match according to what suits them best. 

Making the Most of Your Choices 

To fully benefit from choice and control: 

• Read your plan and look for any Stated Supports (these must be used as written) 

• Ask us, your Plan Manager, or Support Coordinator to explain funding flexibility 

• Compare providers and ask about their availability, values, and experience 

• Change providers if you're not satisfied 

• Keep track of how your supports are helping you achieve your goals 

Support to Make Decisions 

For participants who need assistance in making informed decisions, the NDIS offers: 

• Support Coordinators 

• Interpreters or cultural liaisons 

• Decision-making tools and resources 

• Inclusive planning approaches for participants with communication needs 

Participants are encouraged to make choices in their own way, with the right support. 

Know Your Rights 

Participants have the right to: 

• Choose who delivers their services 

• Be treated with respect 

• Change providers 

• Have a say in how and when services are delivered 

• Appeal decisions or request a plan review if goals or needs change 

Final Thoughts 

Choice and control are not just buzzwords—they are fundamental rights that shape how NDIS plans work for each participant in real life. With the updated PACE system, these rights are clearer and more accessible than ever. 

Participants who understand their options are better equipped to build a plan that truly reflects their goals and values. 

Tip: If you’re unsure about your rights, your options, or how to make changes to your plan, speak with us, your Plan Manager, or Support Coordinator. 

For more detailed information, you can refer to the NDIS guidelines on Understanding Your Plan and Your Rights and Responsibilities.​