Choice and control is one of the foundational principles of the NDIS. It means that people with disability have the right to make decisions about their own lives, including the supports they receive and the goals they pursue.
What Choice and Control Means
Under the NDIS, choice and control means that participants:
- Decide what goals they want to work towards
- Choose the providers they want to work with
- Decide how their supports are delivered
- Choose how their plan is managed (NDIA-managed, plan-managed or self-managed)
- Have the flexibility to change providers and supports if their needs change
Why It Matters
Before the NDIS, people with disability often had limited choices about their supports. Funding was often block-funded to organisations, meaning people had to take what was available rather than what suited them.
Choice and control shifts the power to the individual. It recognises that people with disability are the experts in their own lives and are best placed to make decisions about their own supports.
How to Exercise Choice and Control
Know Your Plan
Understanding what is in your NDIS plan is the first step. Know your goals, your funded supports and your budget. If you're not sure, ask your support coordinator or contact the NDIS.
Choose Your Providers
You have the right to choose your providers. Take the time to find providers that are a good fit for you. Ask questions about their experience, approach and fees. See our guide on questions to ask a disability support provider.
Choose How Your Plan Is Managed
Your plan management option affects your choice of providers:
- NDIA-managed — you can only use registered NDIS providers.
- Plan-managed — you can use both registered and unregistered providers.
- Self-managed — you have the most flexibility but also the most responsibility.
Speak Up
If you are not happy with a provider or a support, you have the right to change. You can also request a plan review if your needs have changed. Advocacy services are available if you need support to have your voice heard.
Choice and Control in Everyday Life
Choice and control is not just about NDIS funding. It is about having the freedom to make decisions about your own life, from small daily choices to bigger life decisions. The NDIS is designed to support this principle by giving participants control over their funding and supports.
Official Sources
For more information about choice and control under the NDIS, visit the official NDIS website at ndis.gov.au.
This guide is for general information only. The NDIS and its processes can change. Always check the official NDIS website for the most current information.