Your NDIS plan is designed to support your goals and meet your needs—but your life isn’t static, and your plan shouldn’t be either. That’s where plan reviews come in. Whether you’re looking to add new supports, update goals, or respond to a change in circumstances, an NDIS plan review is your opportunity to realign your funding with your current situation.
At APTOS, we help participants and their families approach plan reviews with confidence. In this guide, we explain the types of reviews, when they happen, what to expect, and how to prepare for the best possible outcome.
What Is an NDIS Plan Review?
An NDIS plan review is the process of reassessing your current plan to ensure it still meets your needs and goals. It can lead to updates in your funding, changes to services, or a shift in how your plan is managed. Plan reviews are also your chance to reflect on what’s working and where more support is needed.
There are two main types of reviews:
- Scheduled (End-of-Plan) Review: Happens at the end of your plan period (usually 12 or 24 months)
- Unscheduled (Change of Circumstances) Review: Can be requested at any time if your needs or situation change significantly
Why Are Plan Reviews Important?
Plan reviews ensure your NDIS funding stays relevant and effective. You might need a review if:
- Your support needs have increased or decreased
- You’ve moved house or changed living arrangements
- Your goals have evolved
- A new diagnosis or health condition has emerged
- You’re transitioning to school, work, or independent living
- You’re not using all of your funding or need different supports
Plan reviews allow for flexibility and personalisation in your NDIS journey.
What Happens During a Scheduled Plan Review?
When your plan is nearing its end, you’ll be contacted by the NDIA or a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to book a review meeting. This can take place in person, over the phone, or via video call. You can bring a support person or support coordinator to help represent your needs.
During the meeting, you’ll discuss:
- Your current goals and progress
- What supports have worked well
- Any challenges you’ve faced
- New or changing needs
- Future goals and priorities
The planner will use this information to develop your new plan, which may include changes to funding, services, or management style.
How to Prepare for a Plan Review
1. Review Your Current Plan
- What goals have you achieved?
- What supports have been most helpful?
- Are there any services you haven’t used, and why?
2. Set New or Updated Goals
Make a list of realistic, meaningful goals that reflect your current needs and aspirations. These might include:
- Learning daily living skills
- Joining social or community groups
- Accessing mental health support
- Finding work or education opportunities
3. Gather Supporting Evidence
Collect reports or letters from:
- Allied health professionals (OTs, psychologists, physiotherapists)
- General practitioners or specialists
- Service providers or support workers
This evidence should explain how your disability affects daily life and what supports you need moving forward.
4. Identify Any Changes
Make notes about recent changes in:
- Health status or diagnosis
- Living situation or family support
- School, work, or community engagement
- Goals or interests
5. Work With a Support Coordinator
APTOS support coordinators help prepare for reviews by:
- Clarifying your current plan and spending
- Helping you write updated goals
- Organising relevant reports and evidence
- Attending the review meeting with you
Unscheduled Reviews: Change of Circumstances
You don’t have to wait for the end of your plan to request a review. If something significant changes in your life, you can submit a Change of Circumstances form to the NDIA. This may include:
- Deterioration in health
- Increased care needs
- Loss of informal supports
- Starting a new job or course
- Moving to a new home
Unscheduled reviews ensure your plan stays flexible and responsive.
What to Do if You Disagree With the Outcome
If you receive a new plan and don’t believe it meets your needs, you can:
- Request an internal review of the decision
- Provide additional evidence to support your request
- Appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) if needed
APTOS can help guide you through this process and ensure your voice is heard.
Tips for a Successful Plan Review
- Be clear and confident about your goals
- Use your own words and examples to describe daily challenges
- Back up requests with professional evidence
- Keep track of outcomes and spending throughout your current plan
- Be honest about what isn’t working
How APTOS Supports Plan Reviews
Our experienced support coordination team helps participants:
- Prepare for both scheduled and unscheduled reviews
- Collect and organise supporting documentation
- Clarify NDIS processes and expectations
- Advocate during planning meetings
- Connect new funding to appropriate services and providers
We work with you every step of the way to ensure your plan evolves as you do.
Final Thoughts
Plan reviews are more than just a formality—they’re a chance to shape your NDIS journey around your current life. With the right preparation and support, you can walk into a review feeling confident and come out with a plan that works better for you.
Need help preparing for your next NDIS plan review? Contact APTOS today and let our team support you with clarity, compassion, and experience.
