Getting your NDIS plan is exciting. It opens the door to the supports and services that help you live independently, connect with your community, and work towards your goals. But what if your plan doesn’t give you enough funding to do that?
Maybe the NDIA reduced your usual supports. Maybe they left out a service you rely on. Or maybe the plan just doesn’t reflect your everyday life. If that sounds familiar, don’t worry—you’re not stuck. You have the right to question it, ask for changes, and advocate for what you need.
Let’s walk through the steps you can take if you think your NDIS plan doesn’t provide enough funding.
Step 1: Understand What the NDIA Approved (and What They Didn’t)
Start by reading your NDIS plan carefully. Check which supports the NDIA funded, which categories they fall under, and whether they removed or reduced any areas compared to your previous plan. Reflect on what you originally requested. Any items missing or funded at a lower level than expected? Did the NDIA offer any explanation for these changes?
In some cases, they may not have considered certain assessments or reports. That could affect your plan outcome. Sit down with a support coordinator, Local Area Coordinator (LAC), or trusted advocate who can help you make sense of the decisions and spot any gaps. Create a simple list that compares what you asked for with what the NDIA approved. This will make it easier to present your case clearly if you ask for a review.
Step 2: Gather Your Evidence
If you believe the plan doesn’t meet your needs, the NDIA will expect to see supporting evidence. This might include:
- Allied health reports (e.g. from OTs, physios, psychologists)
- GP letters or medical reports
- Incident reports or risk assessments
- Functional assessments showing how your disability impacts daily life
- Support worker logs or service provider notes that highlight your actual usage or unmet needs
The stronger and more specific your evidence, the better.
Step 3: Request an Internal Review (within 3 months)
If you think the NDIA made a decision in error, you have the right to request a review of a reviewable decision. This is called an internal review.
To do this:
- Contact the NDIA within 3 months of receiving your plan.
- Fill out the “Review of a Decision” form or call the NDIA on 1800 800 110.
- Clearly explain which parts of the plan you disagree with and why.
- Attach all supporting documentation.
The internal review will be conducted by a different NDIA staff member who was not involved in your original plan approval.
Step 5: Consider an AAT Appeal
If your internal review is unsuccessful and you still believe the decision is unfair, you can apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
While this process can be more formal, many people are successful in having decisions overturned or funding increased through the AAT. You can get help from:
- NDIS Appeals support providers
- Disability advocacy organisations
- Legal Aid in your state or territory
And again, you don’t have to go it alone. A support coordinator or advocate can guide you through each step.
Step 6: Prepare for Your Next Plan Review
Whether you’re in the middle of a formal review or simply waiting for your next scheduled planning meeting, it’s never too early to start preparing. Begin by keeping a clear record of the supports you’re currently using and how often you use them. If there are any gaps in your support or risks that have emerged due to reduced funding, make note of those too. It’s also a good idea to regularly collect updated reports or assessments from your allied health team, as these can provide strong evidence to support your next plan. And if your personal goals have shifted. Whether that’s pursuing work, building skills, or maintaining your current lifestyle, make sure it’s all clearly documented. The more organised and evidence-based your preparation is, the better positioned you’ll be to advocate for the funding you need moving forward.
How Support Coordinators Can Help
When your NDIS plan isn’t meeting your expectations or needs, a Support Coordinator can make a real difference. Support Coordinators are there to help you understand your plan, identify gaps in funding, and explore alternative options while you wait for a review. They can assist in gathering evidence, coordinating reports from allied health professionals, and communicating with the NDIA on your behalf.
Most importantly, they’ll stand by your side throughout the process. Helping you advocate for your rights, prepare for reviews, and ensure your voice is heard every step of the way. Whether you’re unsure what to do next or simply need someone in your corner, a support coordinator can provide clarity, confidence, and guidance when it matters most.
You Deserve a Plan That Works for You
The NDIS is here to support you and that includes recognising when things don’t quite add up. If you think you didn’t get enough funding, you have every right to question it, provide more information, and request a review.
At the heart of it, the NDIS is meant to be flexible, fair, and focused on your needs. We’ll always help speak up and advocate for what you truly need.
Need Help Navigating a Plan Review?
Whether you’re new to the process or need support gathering evidence, our team is here to help. We can connect you with experienced support coordinators, advocates, and allied health professionals who understand the system and can guide you step-by-step.
Contact us today for personalised support, or book a free consultation.