Flexible funding changes – far more flexibility for IF users

Flexible funding for New Zealand’s disability community has entered an exciting new phase, with changes that came into effect from 1 April making it more flexible, more practical and easier to use than ever before.

The changes impact everyone with flexible funding, including those with Individualised Funding (IF), Enhanced Individualised Funding and/or hosted Enabling Good Lives (EGL) Personal Budgets as well as Carer Support.

You now have more choice, control and guidance.

While there may be a short period of adjustment as IF users and hosts adjust to the new settings, the long-term impact is clear – this is the best the flexible funding system has been in years.

Please note that your funding plan continues to guide how you use your flexible funding and, for now, nothing changes in terms of the plan you already have in place whether that’s an Individual Service Plan (ISP), EGL Funding Plan, Support Agreement, or My Disability Support Services (DSS) Funding Plan.

Over time, everyone with flexible funding will transition to a new My DSS Funding Plan, which is designed to make the purpose of funding clearer, with this change happening at your next reassessment.

Need help with your funding?

If you’re unsure about what your funding can be used for presently, your Manawanui coach or our Customer Experience Centre team can help clarify this. Your Needs Assessment and Service Coordination (NASC) organisation, can also answer any funding questions you may have.

Now back to the changes. At the centre of these is a clear shift towards more trust in disabled people and their families, balanced with clearer guidance and support.

Keep in mind, funding must still align with a person’s ISP or DSS Plan, relate directly to disability support needs, and be managed within budget. Record-keeping, such as receipts and invoices, remains essential.

Budgets themselves remain unchanged, but how they can be used has opened up significantly. That matters. It means fewer rigid constraints on purchases and more ability to tailor support to real, day-to-day needs for you or the person you’re caring for.

At the same time, there is now a stronger framework around responsibilities. This balance between flexibility and accountability is what makes the new system work.

Prior approval is needed for certain purchases such as overseas travel, equipment, complementary therapies, repeat purchases, and one-off purchases items over a set limit depending on what tier you are.

Four tiers of support

Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, support is now organised into four tiers based on how much host guidance a person needs.

Tier 1

For those who are confident managing their funding independently, with very low guidance from their host – a minimum of one check-in a year. Prior approval is needed for one-off purchases above $1500.

Tier 2

The host provides low-level support, with check-ins at least every six months for those who manage their responsibilities well but may need occasional guidance. Prior approval is needed for one-off purchases above $1500.

Tier 3

For clients who need regular coaching and support from their host, with quarterly check-ins. This is for people newer to flexible funding but who can still manage most things in their plan. Prior approval is needed for one-off purchases above $1500.

Tier 4

The highest level of support from a host with monthly check-ins, active coaching and closer oversight, including lower thresholds for prior approval on purchases. As such, prior approval is needed for one-off purchases above $500.

These tiers do not change how much funding a person receives. Instead, they ensure the level of support matches the person’s confidence, experience and needs.

This is why choosing the right host is so critical.

Supporting the disability community for over 20 years.

Manawanui stands out as New Zealand’s leading provider of Individualised Funding, with more than 20 years of experience supporting people to take control of their disability support funding.

We make managing your funding easy

Think of Manawanui as your co-pilot helping you navigate a system that while being more flexible can still be challenging. For example: knowing what funding can and cannot be used for; prior approvals; planning; and compliance.

Crucially, Manawanui combines that expertise with practical tools and hands-on support. No other host has a customer portal quite like ours. It provides a simple way to manage funding, submit claims, track spending and stay on top of budgets. This reduces administrative burden and gives users real-time visibility over their funding. Find out more about the portal here.

Coaches

Beyond the technology, Manawanui offers personalised guidance through our experienced coaches. They understand the system and can provide advice tailored to individual circumstances. Whether someone is highly independent or needs regular support, the coaching model aligns directly with the new tiered guidance system.

Customer Experience Centre

As well as your coach, who provides personalised guidance for at least 90 days, especially in the early stages as you get set up with confidence, our Customer Experience Centre (CEC) adds another layer of support.

Our CEC team offers advice and help when you need it, not just at scheduled check-ins so you'll continue to have ongoing support as your needs evolve.

They're just a phone call away on 0508 462 427 and available Monday to Friday, from 8am to 4:30pm.

This combination of experience, expert guidance, digital tools and responsive support is what makes Manawanui New Zealand’s most trusted host.

In the new flexible funding environment we can guide you through the changes every step of the way so that you get the most out of your funding and the support you need to live your best life.

So if you are considering IF or reviewing your current host, now is the time to act.

Get in touch with Manawanui today.

MP Louise Upston leads the changes

The rollout of the flexible funding changes was led by the Minister for Disability Issues Louise Upston following:

• a 2024 independent review of the disability support system that found there had been unsustainable spending increases and a lack of fairness and transparency around what support disabled people could access

• consultation with the disability community in 2025