What Is the NDIS Plan Review Process? How to Ensure Your Next Plan Reflects Your Changing Needs

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities, helping them access the services and resources they need to live more independently and participate fully in society. However, as people’s needs evolve over time, it’s essential that their NDIS plans reflect these changes. The NDIS Plan Review Process ensures that participants have the flexibility to adjust their supports, goals, and services as their circumstances evolve. This blog will guide you through the NDIS plan review process and offer tips on how to ensure your next plan accurately reflects your changing needs.
What Is the NDIS Plan Review Process?
When you first join the NDIS, you’ll work with an NDIS planner to create your initial plan, which outlines your supports, goals, and funding. However, a lot can change over time—whether it’s your health, living situation, goals, or any other factor. The NDIS plan review process exists to ensure that your supports remain aligned with your current circumstances.
The review process is typically done in one of two ways:
• Scheduled Reviews: Most participants will have their plans reviewed regularly, usually every 12 months. This ensures that the NDIS continues to provide the necessary support as participants’ needs evolve.
• Unscheduled Reviews: If your situation changes significantly before the scheduled review (such as a change in health or living conditions), you can request a review of your plan at any time. Unscheduled reviews allow the NDIS to adjust your funding or supports as soon as possible.
Why Are NDIS Plan Reviews Important?
Your NDIS plan is designed to support you in achieving your goals, and these goals can change over time. For example, a person’s needs may change due to:
• Health changes: You may need additional therapy or support if your condition worsens.
• Life milestones: A person may want to pursue a career or education, which requires new supports.
• Personal goals: You might develop new aspirations, such as participating more in community activities or traveling independently.
• Aging: As you age, your care needs might shift, and your supports should reflect that.
A plan review ensures that the NDIS continues to provide the most relevant support, enhancing your independence and quality of life.
How to Prepare for an NDIS Plan Review
A successful NDIS plan review depends on being prepared. Here are several steps you can take to ensure that your review process is smooth and that your updated plan accurately reflects your current needs.
1. Review Your Current Plan and Goals
Before the review meeting, take the time to look over your existing NDIS plan. Reflect on the goals you set in the previous review and evaluate your progress. Have you achieved these goals? Are there new goals you would like to set for the next period? Be honest about what is working and what isn’t.
For example, if one of your goals was to improve your mobility and you’ve made significant progress, you may want to explore new goals, such as gaining employment or engaging more with your community.
2. Document Any Changes in Your Life or Health
If you’ve experienced changes in your health, lifestyle, or living situation, document these thoroughly. This could include:
• A diagnosis of a new condition
• A change in your living situation (e.g., moving to a different home)
• A change in your ability to work, study, or engage socially
• A change in your care needs (e.g., requiring more personal care or therapy)
The more specific and detailed your documentation is, the easier it will be for the NDIS planner to understand your needs and adjust your plan accordingly.
3. Gather Supporting Evidence
To make sure the NDIS can make an informed decision about your review, gather supporting documents. This might include:
• Medical reports from your doctor or specialist
• Progress reports from therapists, support workers, or other service providers
• Statements from family members or carers
• Updated assessments on your ability to complete certain tasks independently
This evidence helps show the impact of your disability and the changes you have experienced, strengthening your case for additional or adjusted supports.
4. Think About the Supports You Need
The NDIS plan review meeting is a great time to think critically about the supports you need moving forward. Are there any new services you require? For example, if you’re looking to increase your social participation, you might need support in accessing community activities, group programs, or transport.
You might also want to consider adjustments to your existing services. For example, if you are currently receiving support with household tasks but feel ready to tackle these on your own, you can request less frequent support.
5. Set Clear, Realistic Goals
During the review, your NDIS planner will discuss your goals. It’s important to have a clear idea of what your goals are for the upcoming year. Set realistic, achievable goals that are aligned with your values and aspirations. Be sure to consider both short-term and long-term goals to give a clear direction to your plan.
What to Do If Your Needs Have Changed Significantly
If your needs have changed significantly since your last plan, either due to health changes, life milestones, or personal decisions, you can request an unscheduled review. Here’s how you can approach it:
• Contact the NDIS: Reach out to your local NDIS office or the NDIS Helpline to request a review. Be prepared to explain why your current plan no longer meets your needs.
• Provide updated evidence: As with a scheduled review, provide updated documents and reports from your health professionals, carers, or anyone involved in your support network.
• Be specific: When requesting a review, be as specific as possible about what has changed and what additional supports or services you need.
Conclusion
The NDIS plan review process is essential for ensuring that participants continue to receive the most appropriate and effective support throughout their journey. By being proactive in preparing for your review, documenting changes in your life, and setting clear goals, you can help ensure that your next plan reflects your evolving needs. Whether you’re going through a scheduled or unscheduled review, it’s your opportunity to ensure your NDIS plan continues to support your aspirations and enhances your quality of life.