If your needs or circumstances change during your NDIS plan, you might wonder: Do I need a plan variation or a full reassessment?
Thanks to recent NDIS planning reforms, it’s now easier and more flexible to make changes to your plan without starting from scratch. But knowing the difference between a plan variation and a plan reassessment helps you ask for the right thing at the right time.
Let’s break it down so you know what to request, how to do it, and when to do it!
What Is an NDIS Plan Variation?
A plan variation is a way to make small changes to your current NDIS plan without going through a full reassessment or starting from scratch. It’s designed to be a faster, simpler option when you only need to adjust certain details or fix something minor in your plan.
You can request an NDIS plan variation when:
- You need to replace a lost or stolen plan
- You want to correct minor errors
- Your situation requires a small, specific change (e.g. changing how your NDIS funds are managed)
- The NDIA offers a variation to extend your current plan while preparing for a reassessment
Plan variations don’t change your overall funding unless you ask for a specific adjustment. And (as always) you must provide evidence to support it.
What Is an NDIS Plan Reassessment?
An NDIS plan reassessment when the NDIA takes a comprehensive look at your current supports, goals, and funding to see if your plan still meets your needs. Unlike a simple update or tweak, a reassessment can lead to a brand new plan with changes to your budgets, goals, plan length, and the types of supports included.
You can request a reassessment if:
- Your current funding no longer meets your needs
- Your disability or circumstances have changed
- You’ve achieved key goals and want new ones added
- You want to change the length or structure of your plan
The NDIA may also initiate a reassessment by sending you a reassessment notice. In that case, you’ll have a set amount of time to respond, provide evidence, and attend a new planning meeting.
Plan Variation or Reassessment: Which Should You Request?
Choosing between a plan variation and a reassessment depends on how much your circumstances or support needs have changed. A plan variation is ideal when you’re making smaller updates. Like when you need to correct personal details, adjust how your plan is managed, or make administrative changes that don’t impact the core purpose or funding of your plan. It’s a quicker, less formal process that doesn’t usually require a full meeting or detailed evidence.
In contrast, a plan reassessment is needed when the changes are more important. If you’ve experienced a shift in your disability needs, if your current NDIS funding no longer covers the supports you require, or if you’re setting new goals that require different types of services, then a full reassessment is the right path. NDIS reassessments allow you to review your entire plan, advocate for additional funding, and update your goals and supports based on current reports and evidence.
How Do You Request a Change?
To request either a variation or reassessment:
- Contact the NDIA by phone, email, or in person
- Clearly state whether you want a variation or reassessment
- Provide evidence if you’re requesting a change to your funding
- Work with your Support Coordinator or provider to prepare documents
If the NDIA sends a reassessment notice, act quickly. You’ll have a deadline to respond and attend a planning meeting.
Stay in Control of Your NDIS Plan
New NDIS planning reforms aim to give participants more flexibility and control. By understanding the difference between variations and reassessments, you can make informed decisions about your support needs. And keep your plan aligned with your goals. When in doubt, reach out to your Support Coordinator. They can help you decide which process fits your situation, prepare the right evidence, and communicate with the NDIA on your behalf.
Need help deciding what to request? Book a free consultation with our team to talk through your options.