You may have recently heard a lot of discussion about PACE, the NDIA’s new computer and planning system. At Metier Health, we are already actively supporting participants whose plans have transitioned to PACE — so we’re fully PACE ready and here to guide you with clarity and confidence.
PACE Update and FAQs for NDIS Participants – A Metier Health Guide
This article breaks down what PACE is, what’s changing, and what you need to know as an NDIS participant or provider. We’ve also included a comprehensive FAQ section to help you navigate the transition smoothly.
What is PACE?
PACE is the NDIA’s upgraded system—similar to upgrading to a faster, more reliable computer.
Its purpose is to:
- Improve the NDIS experience for participants, their families and carers
- Streamline communication
- Provide clearer visibility of supports
- Enhance provider interactions with the NDIA
PACE represents a modernised, more efficient way for the NDIA to manage plans and support delivery.
When Will PACE Roll Out?
The NDIA is rolling out PACE across an 18-month period, beginning late October 2023.
Different participants will transition at different times depending on their plan changes or reassessments.
What Do Participants Need to Do?
Right now—nothing.
The transition is automatic and depends on your situation:
- Existing participants requesting plan changes (after 30 October 2023)
→ You will be moved to PACE. - Existing participants with a scheduled reassessment and no changes needed
→ You remain on the old system until your reassessment or until you request changes. - New NDIS participants (from 31 October 2023)
→ Your first plan will be created in PACE.
The NDIA will notify you, and Metier Health will support you at every step.
What Is NOT Changing Under PACE?
PACE does not change the foundations of your supports. The following remain the same:
- Your supports (although some names may change)
- The structure of NDIS plans
- Item support numbers
- The NDIS Act
- Provider registration requirements
- NDIS Commission obligations and Practice Standards
What IS Changing Under PACE?
PACE introduces important updates to support types, categories, provider endorsement processes, and NDIA engagement.
These changes only apply once you are moved to PACE.
1. New Support Type: Recurring Transport
A new support type has been introduced—Recurring Transport
- Specifically for regular transport payments
- Always self-managed
2. Five New Support Categories
Core Support Additions
- Home and living
- Young People in Residential Aged Care (YPIRAC) – NDIA-managed
Capital Support Additions
- Assistive Technology: Maintenance, Repair & Replacement
- Specialised Disability Accommodation (SDA)
Capacity Building Addition
- Behaviour Supports
These five new categories are stated supports, meaning they are not flexible and cannot be transferred between categories.
3. Updated Category Names (Capacity Building)
- Support Coordination → Support Coordination & Psychosocial Recovery Coach
- Improved Relationships → Relationships
- Improved Health & Wellbeing → Health & Wellbeing
- Improved Learning → Lifelong Learning
- Improved Life Choices → Choice & Control
Changes to Plan Management & Support Coordination Agreements
Previously, participants had a service agreement directly with their chosen provider.
Under PACE:
- Participants must endorse their chosen providers (e.g., plan managers, support coordinators) through the NDIA.
- You only need to endorse a provider:
- When first connecting to that provider
- When starting a new plan
Metier Health will guide you through endorsement if you require assistance.
New NDIA Processes Under PACE
Annual Participant Check-Ins
NDIA will contact participants annually to ensure their plan still meets their needs.
Plan Meetings Only When Needed
You only attend a plan meeting if changes are required in your new plan.
Optional Plan Implementation Meetings
These help you start your new plan confidently optional – but useful.
Increased Provider Visibility
With participant consent:
- Registered providers can view participant goals
- Plan managers can access relevant sections of a participant’s plan
- Nominee details will also be accessible
This enhances coordination and reduces administrative delays.
PACE FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
How do I know if I’m on PACE?
You’ll be informed during your next plan reassessment or planning meeting.
Will my NDIS Dashboard look different?
Yes, you’ll notice layout changes such as updated colours and formatting.
Is Metier Health already supporting PACE participants?
Yes. We are fully prepared, trained, and experienced with PACE.
How is funding released in PACE?
Funds may be released in intervals over the life of your plan.
For example, a four-year plan may release funding annually.
Will unspent funds roll over?
Yes—unspent funds automatically roll into your next plan.
If overspent, the balance will be deducted from your new plan.
How do I endorse a provider?
You or your nominee can:
- Call NDIA on 1800 800 110, or
- Ask your Local Area Coordinator
Do I need to endorse Metier Health?
Yes—once you are moved to PACE, you will need to endorse Metier Health for services such as:
- Plan Management (if applicable)
- Support Coordination (if applicable)
How do transitions between plan managers work?
Under PACE you can change providers instantly by notifying NDIA—no notice period required.
PACE and Providers
How will providers know a participant is on PACE?
Providers may notice:
- Error messages when submitting single claim requests
- Service bookings ending in the ‘myplace’ provider portal
- Inability to create new service bookings
What does removing single claims mean?
All claims for PACE participants must be submitted through bulk upload via the ‘myplace’ portal.
This reduces administration and ensures consistency.
What is the new request-for-service process?
Participants can request support coordinators through a formal NDIA request outlining goals, needs and circumstances.
New Reporting Templates
Support coordinators and psychosocial recovery coaches will use NDIA-mandated templates for reassessments and check-ins.
The ‘my NDIS’ Provider Portal
A new portal specifically for PACE-managed participants.
Providers will require participant consent before viewing information.
Metier Health is PACE Ready
As the NDIS evolves, Metier Health remains committed to providing clear guidance, reliable support and up-to-date information for all participants and families.
We will continue to share updates as PACE rolls out.
If you have any questions or need support navigating PACE, our team is here to help every step of the way.
