NDIS Plan Review Guide | How to Request a Plan Review

Your NDIS plan isn't set in stone. If your circumstances change or your current plan doesn't meet your needs, you can request a review. This guide explains the different types of plan reviews and how to prepare for a successful outcome.

Types of NDIS Plan Reviews

Scheduled Plan Review

Every NDIS plan has an end date, usually 12-24 months from approval. Before your plan ends, the NDIA will contact you to arrange a scheduled review.

When: Automatically arranged before your plan expires

Purpose: Review what's working, update goals, adjust funding

Unscheduled Plan Review (Change of Circumstances)

If something significant changes in your life or support needs, you can request an unscheduled review at any time.

When: Anytime your circumstances change significantly

Purpose: Address urgent changes that can't wait for scheduled review

Internal Review (Appealing a Decision)

If you disagree with an NDIA decision (like plan funding), you can request an internal review within 3 months.

When: Within 3 months of receiving a decision you disagree with

Purpose: Have a different NDIA staff member reconsider the decision

When to Request an Unscheduled Review

Consider requesting an early review if:

Your disability or health has significantly changed
You've had a major life change (moving house, change in living situation)
Your current supports aren't meeting your needs
You need new supports not in your current plan (like SIL)
Your goals have significantly changed
Your informal supports (family/carers) have changed
You're running out of funding much earlier than expected

Important (2025 Rules): Under sections 47A and 48 of the NDIS Act and the 2025 Variation and Reassessment Rules, the circumstances in which a plan can be varied or reassessed are limited. If you receive a plan that doesn't meet your needs, it's often better to request an internal review immediately rather than wait and hope to fix it through a future reassessment.

Evidence for Change of Circumstances

To request an unscheduled review, you'll need to submit a Change of Details or Situation Form along with supporting evidence. Strong evidence includes:

Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA): Include an updated FCA with every change of circumstances request - this significantly strengthens your case
Professional reports: Letters from GPs, specialists, or therapists documenting the change
Mental Health Care Plan: Required if seeking psychology or behavioural therapy funding
Provider reports: Documentation from current support providers about changed needs

The NDIA will respond within 21 days with a decision to vary your plan or decline the reassessment. If approved, the reassessment will be actioned within 28 days.

How to Request a Plan Review

You can request a review by:

Phone: Call the NDIA on 1800 800 110
Online: Through myplace portal (if you have access)
In person: Visit your Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
Support Coordinator: Ask them to request on your behalf

Preparing for Your Plan Review

A well-prepared review can make a significant difference. Start gathering information at least 4-6 weeks before your review.

1. Review Your Goals

What did you achieve? What goals do you want to continue or change? Think about short-term and long-term goals.

2. Document Your Needs

Keep records of how your disability affects your daily life, any changes in your condition, and support gaps.

3. Gather Reports

Get updated reports from allied health professionals, doctors, or therapists that support your funding requests.

4. Provider Feedback

Ask your current providers for progress reports and recommendations for future support.

What to Bring to Your Review Meeting

A copy of your current NDIS plan
List of your goals (what you've achieved and future goals)
Recent reports from health professionals
Evidence of how you've used your current funding
Provider reports and recommendations
List of supports you need (with reasons why)
Quotes from providers for new supports if available
A support person if you'd like one

Tip: Write down your key points before the meeting. Reviews can feel rushed, so having notes helps ensure you cover everything important.

Tips for a Successful Review

Be specific: Instead of saying "I need more support," explain exactly what support, how often, and why
Focus on function: Explain how your disability affects your daily activities, not just your diagnosis
Provide evidence: Reports from professionals carry weight with the NDIA
Link to goals: Show how requested supports help you achieve your goals
Be honest: Don't undersell or oversell your abilities
Bring support: A family member, support coordinator, or advocate can help

What Happens After Your Review

After your review meeting:

Plan draft: You'll receive a draft plan to review (usually within a few weeks)
Check carefully: Review all details, funding amounts, and supports
Ask questions: Contact your planner if anything is unclear
Plan approval: Once approved, your new plan starts from the approval date

If You're Unhappy with Your New Plan

If your new plan doesn't meet your needs, you have options:

Informal discussion: Contact your LAC or planner to discuss concerns
Internal review: Request a formal review within 3 months
AAT appeal: If the internal review doesn't resolve your concerns, you can appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal