For many Australians navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), managing funding independently can feel overwhelming. Yet, financial literacy- understanding how to budget, track spending, and make informed decisions- is essential for achieving long-term independence and control. That’s where Shared Management comes in.
This flexible approach build capacity and empowers people with disability and their families to take charge of their NDIS funding while receiving the specialist advice and support to build confidence both as an employer and for finance controller.
What is Shared Management?
Shared Management is a collaborative approach within the NDIS that enables people with disability- and their families- to partner with service providers in managing their funding and supports. Through this approach, individuals can employ their own support workers while receiving assistance with their legal, regulatory and compliance obligations.
With deep roots in Western Australia and growing awareness across other states, Shared Management offers a flexible, empowering alternative to traditional NDIS service models.
Unlike provider- managed models where control is centralised, Shared Management allows participants to take a leading role in employing their own staff and managing services- without being left to navigate complex NDIS, employment and tax system alone.
Why Financial Literacy Matters for NDIS Participants and their families
Financial literacy is more than just knowing how to manage money- it’s about making informed choices, planning for the future, and feeling confident in your decisions. For NDIS participants, this includes:
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Understanding how to allocate and track funding
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Knowing what supports are claimable
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Managing payroll, superannuation, and tax obligations
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Staying compliant with NDIS rules and changes
Shared Management supports this learning journey by offering hands-on experience, backed by expert guidance. It’s built on key principles that support individuals to lead and manage their own supports, including taking on the formal role of employer for their support staff. This approach doesn’t just offer autonomy- it provides the tools, knowledge, and support needed to achieve NDIS goals and build financial independence.
Everyone’s needs are a little different. That’s why Shared Management is designed to be flexible- so it can adapt to each person’s situation and offer support where it’s needed most, helping them grow into confident and capable employers. These responsibilities are outlined in a written plain English agreement following a thorough exploration phase, ensuring clarity and shared accountability between the parties.
Benefits of Shared Management for Financial Empowerment
By partnering with a service provider like Interchange WA, individuals gain access to expert guidance, practical tools, and streamlined processes that make managing NDIS funding easier and more empowering. Here’s how Shared Management supports people with disability and their families toward greater confidence and financial literacy:
1. Tools and Knowledge for Financial Independence
Shared Management equips participants with the skills and resources to manage their NDIS funding confidently. With guidance from service providers, individuals learn to budget, monitor spending, and make informed financial decisions- laying the foundation for long-term independence.
2. Expert Guidance through the NDIS Landscape
As NDIS rules and employer obligations evolve Shared Management providers offer practical advice and support to navigate these changes. This ensures participants stay compliant and financially secure, allowing them to focus on what is important-personalised supports to life a great life.
3. Simplified Financial Processes
Managing finances under the NDIS can be complex. Shared Management supports streamline these processes, making financial management more accessible- even for those new to the system. This guidance is crucial in building financial literacy and independence.
4. Empowering Growth and Achievement
Financial freedom isn’t just about money- it’s about having the confidence to pursue goals. Shared Management fosters personal growth by helping individuals be a great boss and take control of their supports and funding, empowering them to lead their own journey.
Navigating Change: Insurance Obligations Under Review
In late 2024 and early 2025, the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission began exploring updates to insurance expectations for self-managed participants who directly employ their own support workers. While no formal mandates have been introduced yet, the Commission has signalled a growing focus on risk management and participant safety in these arrangements.
In response, Shared Management providers- such as Interchange WA are proactively supporting participants by:
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Helping them understand potential insurance obligations
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Ensuring they maintain appropriate coverage (e.g., public liability or workers compensation)
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Preparing for possible future NDIS compliance requirements
This forward-thinking approach ensures participants can continue to enjoy the benefits of being an employer- choice, control, and flexibility- while staying protected and informed.
More than an Approach
Shared Management is more than an approach- it’s a framework for empowerment. By sharing responsibilities and providing expert support, it enables people with disability to take control of their finances, build independence, and achieve their goals with confidence. It’s a powerful step toward greater financial freedom within the NDIS.
By Justin O’Meara Smith
Author’s Bio:
Justin O’Meara Smith – Chief Executive Officer, Interchange Inc.
Justin has proudly served as the Chief Executive Officer of Interchange WA since February 2017, bringing over 20 years of diverse experience in the disability services sector. Throughout his career, he has held a variety of senior roles, each deepening his commitment to creating inclusive, person-centred communities.
Justin holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, a Postgraduate qualification in Business Management, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA). He is also an active member of National Disability Services (NDS)- where he currently serves as Divisional Chair and National Board Member. Justin is passionate about empowering people with disability to live a good life through personalised and flexible support services. He believes in the power of community, creativity, and collaboration to build thriving, connected environments.
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