NDIS Plan Review & Reassessment Guide 2026
Not getting enough from your NDIS plan? Circumstances changed? This guide explains every type of NDIS review, when to request one, and how to prepare for the best possible outcome.
The 3 Types of NDIS Review Explained
"NDIS review" covers three distinct processes. Knowing which one applies to your situation determines your timeline, your rights, and the evidence you need.
Scheduled Plan Reassessment
Triggered when: Happens automatically at the end of your plan period
The NDIA contacts you to review your goals, supports, and funding. Your plan is renewed, adjusted, or rebuilt.
Unscheduled Plan Reassessment
Triggered when: You request it mid-plan due to changed circumstances
You can ask for a review at any time if your needs have significantly changed. The NDIA reassesses your plan outside the normal cycle. Typically takes 8–16 weeks depending on evidence complexity and NDIA workload — longer if reports need to be commissioned.
Internal Review (AAT Appeal)
Triggered when: You disagree with an NDIA decision
Formally challenge a specific NDIA decision — funding amounts, eligibility, or plan approval. Must be lodged within 3 months of the decision. If the internal review is unsuccessful, you can apply to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) for an independent external review. The AAT is free to use and can overturn NDIA decisions entirely.
What Counts as a Change of Circumstances?
The NDIA will approve an unscheduled plan reassessment if your circumstances have changed significantly enough that your current plan no longer meets your needs. Common qualifying changes include:
Important: Running low on funds alone is not always sufficient to trigger an unscheduled review — the NDIA may top up via a plan variation instead. If your needs have genuinely changed, document the functional impact clearly rather than just the dollar shortfall.
How to Request an NDIS Plan Review: 5 Steps
Whether you're preparing for a scheduled reassessment or requesting an unscheduled review, the preparation process is the same.
Document what has changed
Write a clear change-of-circumstances statement: what was true when your plan was approved, what is different now, and how that affects your daily life and support needs.
Gather updated evidence
Request updated reports from your OT, physio, psychologist, or specialist. The NDIA gives most weight to functional assessments that describe impact on daily activities — not just diagnosis letters.
Contact the NDIA
Call 1800 800 110 or lodge through myNDIS. Your Support Coordinator can contact the NDIA on your behalf. Request a planning conversation rather than just a letter.
Attend the planning meeting
Bring your support coordinator, a trusted person, or an NDIS advocate. Speak to your goals and what supports are 'reasonable and necessary' — use NDIS language where possible.
Review the new plan carefully
When you receive your new plan, check every line item. If something is missing or lower than expected, you have 3 months to request an internal review of the decision.
What Evidence Gets Results in a Plan Review?
High-impact evidence
- ✓ Functional assessment by an Occupational Therapist (OT)
- ✓ Specialist reports describing functional impact (not just diagnosis)
- ✓ Progress notes from therapists showing what changed
- ✓ Support Coordinator's goal progress report
- ✓ Carer impact statement from family members
- ✓ A clear written statement from you describing daily difficulties
Weaker evidence (still include)
- ~ GP letters (helpful for context but carry less weight)
- ~ Hospital discharge summaries
- ~ Invoices or service provider notes
- ~ Diagnosis letter alone (without functional impact)
The NDIA focuses on how your disability affects your daily activities and capacity — not just what condition you have. Frame all evidence around function.
How Help Alliance Supports Your Plan Review
Our registered Support Coordinators in Perth's northern suburbs work with participants to navigate plan reviews — from initial preparation through to advocating at the planning meeting.
Evidence Coordination
We contact your OT, allied health, and specialist teams to gather updated reports and ensure they're framed around functional impact.
Change-of-Circumstances Letters
We help you write a clear, structured statement that explains what has changed and why your current plan no longer meets your needs.
Planning Meeting Support
We attend planning conversations alongside you to advocate for appropriate supports and make sure nothing is missed.
NDIS Plan Review: Frequently Asked Questions
Got a Plan Review Coming Up?
Help Alliance's Support Coordinators in Joondalup, Stirling, and Wanneroo help participants prepare for reviews and get the funding their needs require.