Change is a part of life. And when your circumstances change, your NDIS Plan might need to change too.
Maybe you’ve moved house, your disability needs have shifted, or your family’s ability to support you has changed.
The NDIS is transitioning to a new planning framework. Until the new framework is fully implemented, your current plan remains under the existing, or ‘old’ framework. The information in this article reflects the most recent changes to that framework.
New NDIS Guidelines for changing your plan.
From 4 March 2025, the NDIS introduced new rules to make it clearer when and how plans can change. These changes aim to make decision-making more consistent, with a stronger focus on your goals and needs, while still protecting your funding.
You can ask for a change to your NDIS Plan at any time. The NDIS might also decide to give you a new plan if your situation has changed and you need different supports.
There are two ways your plan can change:
- Plan variations are used for small changes, like updating your contact details, changing your goals, or adjusting how your funds are managed. These keep your existing plan going with just a few updates
- Plan reassessments are used for bigger changes, like when your support needs have significantly changed or your plan no longer meets your goals. In most cases, you’ll meet with an NDIS planner and receive a brand new plan.
The NDIS will talk with you about your situation and any information you’ve shared to decide whether a change is needed and what type.
- If a change is made, they’ll send you a copy of your updated plan
- If no change is made, you’ll be told why and given information about your review rights.
Timeframe: The NDIS usually makes a decision within 21 days, or they’ll let you know if they need more information.
If you don’t agree with a change the NDIS makes, you can request a review.
Why is it important to tell the NDIS when your circumstances change?
If you don’t tell the NDIS your circumstances have changed and keep receiving supports that no longer matches your needs, you may be asked to pay that money back.
Types of changes that can affect your NDIS Plan.
You may need a plan change if something important in your life has shifted, such as:
- A change to your phone number, email or address
- Changes in informal supports from family or friends
- New or different disability support needs
- A move to a new house, overseas or into aged care
- Changes in employment (e.g. from part-time to full-time)
- Health or wellbeing changes related to your disability
- Long-term travel or relocation overseas.
You can also speak with your support coordinator, recovery coach or NDIS contact to figure out whether your plan might need to change.
What to do if your circumstances change.
It’s important you let the NDIS know as soon as you know your circumstances have changed or are likely to change.
- Call 1800 800 110
- Email your information to [email protected]
- Complete a change of details or change of situation form via the NDIS website
- Post a letter (with evidence) to: Chief Executive Officer, National Disability Insurance Agency, GPO Box 700 Canberra ACT 2601
- Visit an NDIS office in person.
Good to know: You’ll also need to provide supporting evidence (such as assessments or letters from your health professionals) if your support needs have changed. If it’s a small update, like a contact detail change, formal evidence usually isn’t needed.
What happens next?
Once your request is received:
- The NDIS will assess your information
- If a change is made, you’ll receive a copy of your updated or new plan
- If no change is made, you’ll be told why and advised on next steps
- Any updates must still meet NDIS rules for what is considered reasonable and necessary.
If the changes are minor such as a change in address, your plan supports won’t need to change.
If your plan is no longer right for you.
If your plan is no longer right for you, a plan reassessment (previously called a plan review) may be required.
Examples of when you may need a plan reassessment:
- Your disability is affecting your life in a different way
- You’re starting school or work
- You’re moving out of home or losing informal care
- Your child under 9 has new developmental support needs.
How Leap in! can help.
Got questions about the NDIS change of circumstances process?
Call the friendly Leap in! Crew on 1300 05 78 78. We’re here to help.
Story originally published Nov 29, 2019 – updated 15 Nov 2022 and 29 May 2025.
Further reading
What will the NDIS pay for?
NDIS support categories explained.
NDIS vs mainstream supports: What you need to know.
