NDIS Plan Reviews: What to Expect and How to Prepare (2026 Guide)

An NDIS plan review is an important step where your current supports, goals, and funding are reassessed.

For many families, this process can feel unclear or overwhelming. Knowing what to expect — and how to prepare — can help ensure your plan reflects your current needs and supports your progress moving forward.

This guide outlines what happens during a review, how to prepare, and what you can do if you're not happy with the outcome.

What is an NDIS Plan Review?

An NDIS plan review is a check-in point where your plan is reassessed to ensure it still meets your needs. During a review, the NDIA looks at:

• Your current supports.
• Progress toward your goals.
• What supports you may need going forward.
• Any changes in your circumstances.

Reviews can be scheduled (at the end of your plan period) or unscheduled (if your situation changes).

What to Expect During an NDIS Review

Before the review

You may be contacted by a Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or NDIA planner. They may ask about your current supports, what is working well, and any challenges you are experiencing.

During the review

The review is usually a structured conversation. You may discuss progress toward goals, areas of difficulty, supports currently in place, and what supports are needed moving forward. Reports and supporting evidence are often considered during this stage.

After the review

A new plan will be developed. Funding may stay the same, increase, or decrease. It's important to review your new plan carefully once you receive it.

How to Prepare for an NDIS Review

Preparation is key to ensuring your plan reflects your current needs.

Gather supporting documents

• Recent therapy reports (OT, speech, psychology).
• School reports or feedback (if relevant).
• Progress updates from providers.

Review your current plan

• What supports are being used?
• What supports are not being used?
• Are there any gaps?

Update your goals

Goals should be clear, specific, and linked to everyday life. For example:

Document daily challenges

Be specific about what tasks are difficult, how often support is needed, and what happens without support.

Be ready to explain any changes

This includes increased needs, new diagnoses, or transitions (e.g. school, work, independence).

Easy Strategies to Help You Prepare

Preparing doesn't need to be complicated — small steps can make a big difference.

• Keep a running notes list: Use your phone or a notebook to track daily challenges, situations where support is needed, and anything that isn't working.
• Think about a “typical day”: Consider what parts of the day are hardest, where support is needed most, and what would happen without support.
• Keep reports up to date: Make sure reports reflect current abilities, current challenges, and recommended supports.
• Use clear, real-life examples: Instead of general statements, describe what actually happens, how often, and what the impact is.
• Don't minimise challenges: It's common to downplay difficulties — but the review is the time to clearly explain what is hard, how often it occurs, and how much support is required.
• Stay organised: Keep all documents in one place (digital folder or printed file) so they are easy to access.

How to Give Yourself the Best Chance of a Good Outcome

Focus on function. Explain how challenges impact daily living, participation, and independence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Attending without updated reports.
• Goals that are too vague.
• Not clearly explaining support needs.
• Assuming previous funding will remain the same.
• Not reviewing the final plan carefully.

What Happens After the Review?

Once you receive your new plan:

• Check funding amounts.
• Review support categories.
• Ensure goals are accurate.

If something doesn't look right, there are steps you can take.

What If You're Not Happy With Your NDIS Plan?

If your plan doesn't reflect your needs, there are options available.

Internal Review (Section 100)

You can request an internal review, often called a Section 100 review. A different NDIA staff member reviews the decision. This must be requested within 3 months, and you will need to explain what you disagree with, why, and provide supporting evidence.

Change of Circumstances (CoC)

A Change of Circumstances can be requested if your situation has changed significantly, or your current plan no longer meets your needs. Examples include increased support needs, major life transitions, or changes in health or function.

Administrative Review Tribunal (ART)

If you are not satisfied after an internal review, you can apply to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). It is independent of the NDIA, reviews whether the decision was correct, and allows submission of additional evidence. This process can take time, but it is an important pathway if needed.

Final Thoughts

An NDIS plan review is an opportunity to ensure your supports match your current needs and goals. Being prepared, organised, and clear about your situation can make a significant difference in the outcome.

If you would like support preparing for an upcoming NDIS review or updating your reports, Flare Therapy can assist. Our Functional Capacity Assessments & NDIS Reports service is built specifically to support reviews like this.