The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan represents a dynamic life blueprint which enables you to pursue your objectives while receiving necessary support. But life is not static. People develop new skills, their situations transform, and their future goals change. When this happens, your NDIS plan needs to evolve with you. The ability to detect when your NDIS plan needs review is important for maintaining relevant and effective support systems.
Our mission at Good Company focuses on delivering personalised support services which respond effectively to individual needs. A plan that delivered excellent results for you one year ago may not necessarily fit your requirements today. The following guide demonstrates how to detect essential warning signs that require an update of your NDIS plan to maintain your life goals.
Understanding the NDIS Plan Review Process
The NDIS plan review is a formal process which examines the current implementation of your plan. The review provides you with an opportunity to review your progress while you adjust your goals and funding, along with planning your support services for the upcoming year.
There are generally two types of reviews:
- Scheduled Plan Reviews: These reviews take place automatically when your plan reaches its implementation anniversary. Local Area Coordinators (LAC) or the NDIA will schedule appointments with you regarding the review process.
- Unscheduled Plan Review (Reassessment): You can request this type of review at any time when your plan circumstances experience significant changes. The assessment should address any major changes that render your present plan insufficient or inappropriate for you.
Throughout this review process, you will have the opportunity to express yourself while working together to create a plan which accurately presents your present situation.
Key Indicators You Need a Plan Review
How do you determine when it is appropriate to request a review since your scheduled review date has passed? Check these specific indicators:
1. You’ve Achieved Your Goals
This is a fantastic reason for a review. If you’ve achieved your goals and reached the main objectives of your current plan, it’s time to establish advanced targets. Your current plan can be updated to fund the necessary support for your future development.
2. A Major Life Change Has Occurred
Major life changes automatically modify your requirements for support. This might include moving away from school, beginning university studies, moving into your own place, receiving a new medical diagnosis, or losing your informal support system from family members.
3. Your Supports Aren’t Delivering Outcomes
Are you feeling stuck? If your funded supports have been in place for a period of time but you are not advancing towards your objectives, your current support type or intensity might not be right for you. Reviewing your plan provides the opportunity to change course toward better support strategies.
4. Your Funding Doesn’t Match Your Needs
If your budget runs out before the end of the year, or you are not able to make use of all your funding, it may be worth a review. The funding structure may need adjustment to fulfil your needs.
5. Your Personal Goals Have Changed
Have you changed your goals? Perhaps you initially wanted to concentrate on community activities, but now have a new objective to get a job. Your NDIS plan needs to change with your personal goals, as they are its core foundation.
6. You Need Different or More Complex Supports
Your evaluation may reveal the need for particular assistive technology, home modifications, or different therapy approaches. A review is essential to evaluate your needs so funding can be provided.
The Importance of Evidence for a Review
The NDIS uses the standard of reasonable and necessary to function. You will need to provide proof that demonstrates these changes fulfil the reasonable and necessary criteria; a simple request for more funding does not fulfil the requirements. Your evidence might include:
- Your current treatment reports from occupational therapists, psychologists, physiotherapists, and other allied health professionals detailing your recent progress, evolving requirements, and their suggestions for upcoming support services.
- A Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA), which provides an extensive overview of your functional abilities together with your support requirements across all life domains.
- A letter from a support provider such as a mentor at Good Company, explaining the work you have done together with your progress, and detailing why new or different support options are required for your development.
- Quotes, if you are requesting funding for new assistive technology or specific services.
How to Initiate a Plan Review
The process for scheduled reviews is easy, because the NDIA and your LAC will contact you directly. You must take initiative to start an unscheduled review because of changed circumstances.
The most effective approach is to request a ‘Change of Circumstances’ form through the NDIS website. Present this form with a clear explanation of your situation’s changes while including all supporting evidence you have collected. Contact your LAC or Support Coordinator to discuss review needs and request their assistance in submitting the request to the NDIA.
Preparing for Your Plan Review Meeting
Success in the review meeting depends on proper preparation. Being organised and clear in your communication will improve your ability to present your needs effectively.
- Consider your upcoming targets during the next 12-24 months before the review meeting, and write these down.
- Assemble all your reports and assessments with letters into one folder which you can easily access during the meeting.
- Note down the successful and unsuccessful elements from your current plan. Present particular instances when explaining your points.
- Summarise your key points on one page: new goals, requested changes and evidence provided. A summary will help maintain focus during the meets.
Remember: You don’t have to go alone. Your support coordinator, a family member, or a trusted friend who knows you and your goals can accompany you to the meeting. They can provide both practical help and emotional comfort.
Conclusion: Ensuring Your Plan Reflects Your Life
The NDIS plan is adaptable and actively supports your life path. The plan review is an official time to verify that your funding is the perfect match for your current situation. By understanding when a change is necessary, you can build strong evidence and prepare well for your meeting to take control of the process. If you believe your current plan does not meet your needs, contact Good Company for Disability Support in Perth or Melbourne. We can help you find the right person-centred support which adjusts to your growth needs.
