How to Request a Change in Your NDIS Plan Midway

Life is full of changes—some expected, others not. If your circumstances shift during your NDIS plan period, your support needs might change too. Whether it’s due to a new health diagnosis, a change in living arrangements, or alterations in your support network, your NDIS plan should adapt accordingly.

The good news is, you don’t have to wait for your scheduled plan review to make necessary adjustments. This guide will walk you through the process of requesting a mid-plan change, ensuring your supports align with your current needs.

Requesting a reassessment—often called a “Change of Circumstances”—is your right as a participant. It allows you to update your plan so it accurately reflects your situation. And the earlier you request the change, the sooner you can access the supports that truly meet your needs. Whether you’re navigating new challenges or just need a better fit, taking proactive steps ensures your plan remains flexible, functional, and focused on your wellbeing.

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When Can You Request a Change to Your NDIS Plan?

Under the NDIS, participants can request a plan reassessment at any time if their circumstances change significantly. This is commonly referred to as a “Change of Circumstances.”

Valid reasons for a mid-plan change include:

✅ Health deterioration: If your condition worsens, leading to increased support needs.

✅ Change in primary carer: If your main support person is no longer able to provide care.

✅ Moving to a new home or Supported Independent Living (SIL): Relocation can impact the type and level of support required.

✅ New support needs: Emergence of needs such as increased personal care or therapy sessions.

Other examples include hospital discharge, changes in employment, relationship breakdowns, or transitions into different housing models like Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). If these changes aren’t reflected in your current plan, it could lead to underfunding and unnecessary stress.

It’s essential to inform the NDIS of any changes as soon as possible, as they may affect your plan’s funding, your goals, or even the services you can access. A timely reassessment ensures your plan remains relevant and supports your independence, safety, and quality of life.

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How to Request a Plan Reassessment (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Gather Supporting Documentation

Collect evidence that demonstrates the change in your circumstances and the impact on your support needs. This may include:

• Medical reports or letters from healthcare professionals
• Therapy assessments
• Incident reports
• Statements from carers or support workers

The more specific and up-to-date the evidence, the stronger your case will be. Include dates, clear descriptions, and recommendations where possible. These documents help the NDIA understand why an adjustment to your plan is necessary and urgent.

Step 2: Complete the Change of Circumstances Form

Fill out the “Change of Details or Change of Situation” form available on the NDIS website. Ensure all relevant sections are completed accurately and honestly, especially those relating to your updated support needs. Be specific about what has changed and how it impacts your daily life. If you’re unsure how to complete the form, your support coordinator or provider (like Meta Healthcare) can guide you through the process to avoid delays.

Step 3: Submit Your Request

You can submit your completed form and supporting documents via:

• Email: Send to enquiries@ndis.gov.au.
  
• Post: Mail to the National Disability Insurance Agency, GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601.
  
• In-person: Visit your local NDIS office.
  
• With assistance: Through your support coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC).
  

Step 4: Wait for NDIA Assessment

The NDIA will assess your request and decide whether to:

• Vary your current plan.
  
• Reassess and create a new plan.
  
• Decline the request.
  

They are required to respond within 21 days of receiving your request.

Step 5: Attend a Reassessment Meeting (if required)

If the NDIA proceeds with your reassessment, you may be invited to a planning meeting to discuss your updated needs and goals. It’s important to come prepared—bring along any relevant documents, notes, and your support coordinator if you have one. This is your chance to clearly explain how your situation has changed, what challenges you’re now facing, and what supports would make a meaningful difference in your daily life. Being honest and specific will help ensure the new plan is tailored to your current circumstances.

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Tips for Making a Strong Case

To increase the likelihood of a successful plan change, it’s important to present a clear, well-supported request to the NDIA. Here’s how:

✅ Be clear and concise: Clearly explain what has changed in your life, how it impacts your day-to-day functioning, and why your current supports are no longer sufficient.

✅ Provide comprehensive evidence: Back up your request with recent reports, letters or assessments from health professionals, therapists, or support workers. Include any documentation that shows the direct link between your change in circumstances and your need for additional or different support.

✅ Highlight risks: Describe the risks to your health, safety, or independence if your plan isn’t adjusted—this can help the NDIA prioritise your request.

✅ Involve your support coordinator: A good coordinator will help prepare a strong case, coordinate paperwork, and communicate directly with the NDIA on your behalf.

✅ Use simple, everyday language: Avoid jargon—describe your needs in a way that’s relatable and easy to understand.

Remember, the more specific and detailed your request, the easier it is for the NDIA to see why a reassessment is needed and how it can improve your outcomes.

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How Meta Healthcare Supports Participants Through the Process

At Meta Healthcare, we understand that navigating the NDIS can be complex—especially when your needs shift mid-plan. That’s why we offer hands-on support every step of the way to make the process easier and less stressful for you and your loved ones.

✅ Documentation Preparation: We work with you to collect all the right documents—from GP letters to allied health reports—ensuring they clearly outline how your circumstances have changed and what supports you now require.

✅ Professional Assessments: Our allied health team can conduct fresh assessments or write updated reports to support your case, using language the NDIA understands and responds to.

✅ Lodging Requests: Whether it’s filling out the Change of Circumstances form or drafting a formal letter, we make sure your application is complete, accurate, and submitted to the right place.

✅ Ongoing Communication: We don’t just submit and wait—we follow up with the NDIA, provide clarification if needed, and keep you informed at every step.

✅ Participant Support: We offer meeting support too. Your Meta Healthcare support coordinator can join reassessment meetings with you, helping communicate your goals and advocate for the right outcome.

We’re here to ensure your NDIS plan evolves with you—so you never feel left behind.

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Conclusion

Your NDIS plan should evolve with your life—not stay fixed while your needs shift. Whether you’ve experienced a health setback, a change in living situation, or increased support requirements, your plan can and should be updated to reflect that reality. Don’t feel like you have to struggle through until your next scheduled review. Acting early can mean getting the support you need sooner, reducing stress and improving your day-to-day wellbeing.

At Meta Healthcare, we make this process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From preparing documents to speaking with the NDIA on your behalf, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Need assistance with requesting a plan change? Contact Meta Healthcare today for step-by-step support. We’re here to help you advocate for the funding and services you need—when you need them.

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For more information or to get started, visit Meta Healthcare.