A NDIS plan is designed to support your individual needs, goals, and circumstances, but it is not permanent. Plans are reviewed regularly to ensure they continue to meet your needs as your situation changes. Understanding what happens when your NDIS plan changes or is reviewed can help you prepare, reduce stress, and make the most of your funding.
Why NDIS Plans Are Reviewed
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) reviews NDIS plans to make sure supports remain reasonable and necessary. A review may occur because:
- Your current plan period has ended
- Your needs, goals, or circumstances have changed
- You have requested a review due to unmet needs
- The NDIA has identified changes in funding or supports
Reviews are a normal part of the NDIS and are intended to keep your plan aligned with your life and goals.
Types of NDIS Plan Reviews
There are different types of NDIS plan reviews, depending on your situation.
A scheduled plan review usually happens at the end of your plan period, often every 12 months. This is a routine review where your progress, supports, and funding are reassessed.
A change of circumstances review can be requested if your needs have changed significantly. This might include a change in health, living arrangements, employment, or support requirements.
In some cases, the NDIA may conduct an internal review if there is disagreement with a decision made about your plan.
What Happens During a Plan Review
During a plan review, the NDIA assesses how your current plan has been used and whether it continues to meet your needs. This may involve:
- Reviewing your goals and progress
- Assessing how your funding has been spent
- Considering reports from therapists or service providers
- Discussing changes in your daily life or support needs
You may be contacted for a meeting, phone call, or online discussion. It is important to be honest and clear about what is working and what is not.
Possible Outcomes of a Plan Review
Several outcomes of a NDIS plan review include.
Your plan may be rolled over, meaning the same funding and supports continue with a new plan period. This often happens if your needs remain stable.
Your plan may be adjusted, with changes to funding levels, support categories, or goals. Funding may increase if your needs have grown, or it may be reduced if certain supports are no longer required.
In some cases, supports may be restructured rather than increased, with funding moved between categories to better match your needs.
What Happens When Your Plan Changes
When a new or updated plan is approved, it replaces your previous plan. Your support categories, budgets, and goals may change, and it is important to review the new plan carefully.
You may need to:
- Adjust your services or providers
- Update service agreements
- Review your budget with your plan manager or support coordinator
- Ensure invoices align with the new funding categories
Any unspent funds from your previous plan generally do not carry over, so careful planning is essential.
Conclusion
NDIS plan changes and reviews are an important part of ensuring your supports remain suitable and effective. With the right preparation, plan reviews can be an opportunity to improve your support and move closer to your goals.
