Feeling unsure about your upcoming plan review? Here’s a detailed guide packed with practical tips, insights, and answers to help you prepare with confidence.
What Is an NDIS Plan Review?
An NDIS plan review is a structured process where the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) reviews your current NDIS plan to determine if it still meets your needs. Reviews are essential for ensuring that your supports remain aligned with your evolving goals, daily life, and circumstances.
There are different types of reviews:
- Scheduled (Annual) Reviews: Typically every 12 months, unless otherwise specified in your plan.
- Participant-Requested Reviews: If your needs change significantly (e.g. due to a new diagnosis, injury, or changes in living situation).
- Unscheduled Early Reviews: Sometimes initiated by the NDIA if inconsistencies or issues are detected.
Each review gives you a chance to reflect on how your current supports are working. This is the perfect opportunity to request changes or updates. And, a vital time to plan ahead for new goals.
How Does an NDIS Plan Review Work?
The plan review process is a collaborative meeting between you (and any nominated supports) and an NDIS representative. This may be your Local Area Coordinator (LAC), Early Childhood Partner, or an NDIA planner. And your nominated supports can be anyone from a family member to your support coordinator.
The review discussion usually covers:
- Progress toward your current NDIS goals
- How your funded supports have helped (or not helped)
- Any areas where you’ve underspent or overspent
- Changes in your daily routine or support needs
- New goals you’d like to achieve in the next plan
- Preferences for how your plan is managed (NDIA-managed, plan-managed, or self-managed)
You can also:
- Request assistive technology or home modifications
- Ask for additional support hours or new therapy
- Flag any service delivery issues you’ve experienced
You do not need to wait until the review to share critical information. If your situation changes suddenly, speak to your support coordinator. They can help you request an early reassessment.
NDIS Plan Review Checklist
Being well-prepared is key to a successful review. Use this NDIS plan review checklist to guide your preparation:
1. Review Your Current Plan
- Understand the categories of support you currently receive (e.g., Core, Capacity Building, Capital).
- Revisit your goals and note which ones you’ve achieved, which are ongoing, and any that are no longer relevant.
- Think about what you need to maintain or build on your progress.
2. Gather Supporting Documentation
- Come prepared with recent therapy or medical reports (OT, physio, psychologist, etc.)
- Progress notes from support workers or service providers
- Quotes or assessments for new equipment or modifications
- Letters of support from healthcare professionals
3. Track Spending and Budgets
- Speak to your plan manager for a breakdown of your budget usage.
- Identify areas where funding was insufficient or not used.
- Explain why underspending or overspending occurred (e.g., delays, lack of providers, change in need).
4. Record Any Life Changes
- New health conditions, hospital stays, or therapy needs
- Changes in your home or living arrangements
- Shifts in informal supports (family or carers)
- Employment or education updates
5. Outline New or Evolving Support Needs
- Do you need more hours for personal care or community access?
- Is there a new piece of assistive tech that could improve your life?
- Are there upcoming transitions (e.g., from school to work, home to assisted living)?
Preparing for NDIS Plan Review: Tips from the Experts
1. Start Early
Begin collecting documents and reflecting on your goals 6-8 weeks before your plan review meeting. This gives you enough time to have all the relevant information ready. And, enough time to prepare so you can go into the review feeling confident and ready!
2. Be Honest and Specific
When discussing your needs, don’t downplay your challenges. Use specific examples and outcomes to show why certain supports are crucial.
3. Involve Trusted Supports
Invite your support coordinator, plan manager, or a trusted family member to the meeting. They can help explain complex needs or provide backup evidence.
4. Set Realistic and Meaningful Goals
NDIS funding is tied to your goals, so make sure they reflect what matters to you — whether that’s independent living, improving health, or increasing community participation.
5. Know Your Rights
If you don’t agree with the outcome of your plan review, you can request an internal review or escalate to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT).
After the NDIS Plan Review: What to Expect
Once your meeting is complete, the NDIA will assess the evidence and outcomes discussed. They may:
- Approve changes to your goals or supports
- Adjust your funding levels based on reports and usage
- Introduce new categories or change the management type
Receiving Your New Plan
You’ll receive the new plan in your myplace portal or by post. It’s important to:
- Review the plan carefully
- Flag any immediate issues with your LAC or planner
- Begin making service bookings or adjustments as needed
If you believe there was an error or the funding doesn’t reflect your needs, you have the right to request a plan review within 3 months of receiving it.
Your NDIS Partner for Success
Preparing for your NDIS plan review can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right guidance and a detailed checklist, you can feel empowered and in control.
At Achora, we help you understand what to expect in your NDIS plan review. Gather the right documents and reports. Advocate for funding that reflects your real needs and facilitate a smooth transition into your next plan period.
Let us support you in getting the most out of your NDIS plan, so you can focus on achieving your goals and living the life you choose.
