An NDIS plan review is a crucial part of your NDIS journey. It’s the moment to reflect on your progress, reassess your goals, and ensure your supports are truly working for you. While the thought of a review can feel daunting, being prepared can make the process smoother and lead to much better plan outcomes. Feeling confident and in control during your review is entirely possible with the right preparation.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare for your next NDIS plan review. We’ll provide a practical NDIS plan review checklist and clear tips to help you communicate your needs effectively. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to get the most out of your review meeting.
Understanding the NDIS Plan Review Process
First, let’s clarify what a plan review is. An NDIS plan review is a meeting with the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) or a representative, like a Local Area Coordinator (LAC), to discuss your current NDIS plan and prepare for the next one. Its primary purpose is to ensure your plan continues to meet your needs and support your goals.
There are two main types of reviews: a scheduled review, which usually happens once a year before your current plan expires, and an unscheduled review, which you can request at any time if your circumstances change significantly.
During a review, the NDIA looks for specific information to help shape your next plan. Here’s what you should know:
- Why reviews happen: They are a standard part of the NDIS process to check that your funding is being used effectively and to adjust supports as your life and goals evolve.
- What the NDIA looks for: They want to see how your current supports have helped you work towards your goals, understand any new challenges you’re facing, and gather evidence for any new or adjusted supports you’re requesting.
- Typical timeframes: Plan reviews are typically held annually, but it’s a good idea to start your NDIS review preparation about 6-8 weeks before your plan’s end date.
Gathering the Right Documentation
One of the most powerful things you can do to prepare for your review is to gather strong supporting evidence. Documents, reports, and personal notes provide concrete proof of your needs and strengthen your case for the funding you require. Think of it as building a clear picture for the NDIA of your life and the support you need to live it well.
Here is an NDIS plan review checklist of essential documents to collect:
- Therapy or support worker progress notes: These reports from your providers are vital. They should detail your progress, the outcomes of your current supports, and recommendations for the future. Ask your providers for these reports well in advance of your review meeting.
- Medical reports or updated assessments: If your health or circumstances have changed, new reports from doctors, specialists, or therapists are crucial. This evidence justifies the need for different or additional supports.
- Spending summaries or invoices: A summary of how you’ve used your funds shows what supports have been necessary. If you are plan-managed or self-managed, you should have access to these records.
- Participant statement or personal notes: Your own voice is incredibly important. Keep a diary or notes throughout the year to track your progress, challenges, and successes. This personal account provides valuable context that reports alone cannot capture.
Reviewing Your Current Plan
Before you can plan for the future, you need to reflect on the past. Take some time to think critically about your current NDIS plan. What worked well? What didn’t? This reflection will help you identify what to keep, what to change, and any new needs that have emerged.
Use these prompts to guide your reflection:
- Which services were most useful? Think about the supports that made a real difference in helping you achieve your goals or improve your daily life.
- Were there supports you rarely or never used? If so, why? Was it because they weren’t a good fit, or were there barriers to accessing them?
- What have you achieved during this plan cycle? Celebrate your successes! Noting your progress helps show the effectiveness of your supports.
- What are your ongoing challenges? Be honest about what is still difficult. Are there goals you haven’t been able to work towards? This helps identify gaps in your current plan.
This process will help you go into your review meeting with a clear understanding of your needs and priorities.
Preparing Your Talking Points
Once you’ve gathered your evidence and reflected on your plan, it’s time to prepare your talking points for the review meeting. Walking in with a clear, organised list of what you want to discuss will boost your confidence and ensure you don’t forget anything important. You could even write a short script or a few key notes to keep you on track.
Your talking points should cover:
- Your key goals for the next plan period: What do you want to achieve in the next 12 months? Be specific about your aspirations, whether they relate to skills development, community participation, or health and well-being.
- Any changes in your daily needs or health: Clearly explain any new challenges or changes in your circumstances since your last review.
- Examples of your progress: Use specific examples from your personal notes or provider reports to illustrate how your supports have helped you.
- Requests for new services or adjustments: If you need different supports, be ready to explain what you need and how it will help you achieve your goals. Link your requests back to your supporting evidence.
Using Support Networks to Help You Prepare
You don’t have to prepare for your NDIS plan review alone. Your support network, family, carers, friends, or a support coordinator can be an invaluable resource during this process. They can offer a different perspective and provide practical assistance to help you feel ready.
Here are a few ways your support network can contribute:
- Reviewing documents and notes with you: A second pair of eyes can help ensure your evidence is clear and your talking points make sense.
- Helping you practise answers to common questions: Role-playing the meeting can make you feel more comfortable and confident in expressing your needs.
- Attending the review meeting for support: You can bring someone with you to the meeting. This person can act as an advocate, take notes, or simply be there to support you.
If you have a Support Coordinator, they will play a key role in helping you gather reports and prepare for your meeting.
Your Path to a Better Plan
Preparing for your NDIS plan review is your opportunity to take control of your NDIS journey. By gathering the right evidence, reflecting on your goals, and preparing clear talking points, you can walk into your meeting with confidence. This preparation is the key to securing a plan that truly supports your needs and empowers you to achieve your aspirations. If you feel overwhelmed or need expert guidance, the team at Meta Healthcare is here to help. Our experienced Support Coordination team can assist with your NDIS review preparation, ensuring your voice is heard and your needs are met. Reach out to us today to get started.
Meta Healthcare is a leading NDIS provider in Sydney, dedicated to empowering participants through personalised care and expert guidance. Our compassionate team focuses on creating meaningful opportunities, fostering independence, and supporting brighter futures for individuals and their families. With over 60 years of combined experience, we offer a range of services, including support work, allied health, support coordination, and respite care, all tailored to meet each participant’s unique goals and needs. At Meta Healthcare, we prioritise transparent communication, inclusivity, and a goal-oriented approach to help you thrive in your journey with the NDIS.
