For individuals and families navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), understanding the breakdown of support costs is essential. One of the most frequently asked questions at Choice Support Plus is: “What exactly is the establishment fee, and why is it on my plan?”

This article will help untangle the establishment fee, explain its purpose, and clarify how it contributes to better support outcomes.

What Is an Establishment Fee in the NDIS?

An establishment fee is a one-off charge registered NDIS providers, like Choice Support Plus, may claim when beginning certain services, particularly personal care or community access supports.

It’s important to note that not every service attracts this fee. The establishment fee is specifically aligned with Assistance with Daily Life supports under Core Supports and applies when the provider delivers personal care or similar direct support for the first time with a new participant.

What Does the Establishment Fee Cover?

At its core, the establishment fee compensates providers for the upfront time and effort involved in setting up high-quality, individualised support. This includes:

• Initial planning and assessment: Time spent understanding the participant’s goals, routines, preferences, and needs.

• Onboarding and orientation: Ensuring that both the participant and the support workers are comfortable and clear about expectations, scheduling, and communication methods.

• Staff recruitment and matching: Aligning the right support worker(s) with the participant to ensure the best fit, including background checks and training.

• Creating support documentation: Developing person-centred support plans, risk assessments, and health and safety procedures tailored to the participant.

• Coordinating with other services: Communicating with support coordinators, family members, and other providers involved in the participant’s care.

This initial setup can take significant time behind the scenes to ensure a smooth and safe experience for the participant, especially when the support involves intimate or complex care.

How Much Does the Establishment Fee Generally Cost?

As of the 2024-2025 NDIS Pricing Arrangements, the establishment fee for Assistance with Daily Living supports typically ranges between $551 and $662 (ex GST). This range can vary slightly depending on:

• The specific support category (e.g. personal care vs. community access).

• The provider's registration and compliance with NDIS rules.

• The participant's location. Remote or very remote areas may attract a loading.

For example:

• A standard establishment fee under Assistance with Self-Care Activities is usually $662.17

• Under Assistance to Access Community, Social and Recreational Activities, it may be $551.00

Note: This is a one-time charge and is fully funded by the NDIS plan. There are no out-of-pocket costs to the participant when using a registered provider like Choice Support Plus.

We recommend checking the most recent NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits guide or speaking with your support coordinator or plan manager to confirm what applies to your specific situation.

Why the Fee Is Important for Participants

Although the establishment fee might appear like an extra cost, it is funded through the NDIS plan, not an out-of-pocket expense for the participant. This investment helps:

• Improve service quality through proper planning

• Ensure participants receive consistent and appropriate care

• Reduce the risk of service disruption or mismatch

• Increase participant satisfaction and comfort

It lays the groundwork for a trusted and stable long-term support relationship by allocating resources for setup.

When Can a Provider Claim It?

Registered providers may claim an establishment fee when:

• They begin providing personal care/community access supports for a participant

• The participant agrees to start services, and the fee has been disclosed

• The provider has not previously claimed this fee for the same participant under the same support category

At Choice Support Plus, we always ensure that participants are informed before we claim any establishment fee. Transparency and communication are core to how we deliver services.

The establishment fee is more than just an administrative cost—it represents the thoughtful setup of a care relationship that meets your unique needs. At Choice Support Plus, we believe that investing time upfront leads to better outcomes, happier participants, and stronger support teams.

If you or someone you support is starting NDIS services with us and has questions about establishment fees or any part of the funding process, feel free to reach out. We're here to help make the journey clearer, more empowering, and more supportive.