With recent changes in the NDIS and growing attention on funding decisions, it’s no surprise that many people are feeling unsure about asking for a plan reassessment.
As a result, some participants are continuing with the same supports – even when their needs have changed.
So what should you do if your circumstances are different or you need more supports? We explore when a reassessment might be needed and how to make a strong case for funding.
Rollovers, new plans and reassessments explained.
As you near the end of your current NDIS Plan, one of three things may happen:
Plan rollover.
Your plan continues for another period (usually 12 months) with no changes to funding or goals. Unspent funds are carried over.
This may happen if the NDIS hasn’t finalised your new plan before the current one ends.
New plan with the same supports.
- This may suit you if your situation is stable and your current supports are working well to help you pursue your goals
- It’s generally used when there are no major life changes expected in the next year.
Plan reassessment.
A formal review of your NDIS Plan and supports. It’s recommended if:
The impact of your disability on your life has changed
You’re entering a new life stage such as school or work
Your living arrangements or caring supports have changed
Support needs have changed for a child under nine.
You can request a reassessment at any time if your circumstances change. You can do this by contacting the NDIS on 1800 800 110 or completing a Change of details or change of situation form. This may trigger a plan variation or plan reassessment.
The NDIS will respond to your request for a plan reassessment within 21 days by either:
- Varying your plan
- Replacing your plan with a new plan
- Making a decision not to reassess your plan.
Good to know: You may also hear from the NDIS a few months before the end of your plan for a ‘participant check-in’ and you can flag your need for a plan reassessment at this time.
Gathering evidence for a plan reassessment.
If you’re asking for changes to your plan, strong supporting information is essential. It helps the NDIS understand why different supports are needed and how they’ll help you achieve your goals.
You’ll need to clearly show:
- What’s changed and when it happened, or will happen
- The impacts on your daily life and participation
- The new supports required to achieve your goals.
Just remember, if you apply without clear supporting documents, your request may be declined.
What types of supporting documents should you include?
Providing current, relevant documentation can make a big difference to the outcome of your reassessment.
Useful examples include:
- Recent reports from allied health professionals (e.g. occupational therapist, speech pathologist, psychologist)
- Functional assessments or updated therapy progress reports
- Letters from support workers or service providers showing changes in your support needs
- Reports from schools, workplaces or training programs (if relevant)
- Any medical reports that show a change in condition or diagnosis.
Unless your situation has changed significantly, reports that are less than 12 months old may be accepted by the NDIS. In some cases, you may still be asked to complete a new functional capacity assessment to better reflect your current support needs.
Tips from our plan managers.
Include a weekly schedule. Show how your current supports don’t meet your daily needs.
Request letters from professionals. Ask your GP or allied health professional to explain how your support needs have changed over time.
Be specific. Avoid vague statements like “needs help with daily tasks”. Include examples of what you can and can’t do without support.
Take the time to get it right. Preparing strong evidence upfront can help you avoid needing a review or appeal later.
Use plain English. Ask professionals to write clearly and avoid jargon. The NDIA prefers simple, functional descriptions.
Include dates. Ensure all reports are recent and clearly dated. This helps show how your needs have changed over time.
Link supports to your goals. Demonstrate how each support will help you achieve the goals in your NDIS Plan.
Label documents clearly. Use simple file names (e.g. ‘OT_Report_June2025’) so planners can find and review them easily.
Understanding reassessment and review requests.
If you need to make changes to your NDIS Plan, it’s important to understand the difference between a reassessment and a review request.
Plan reassessment due to a change in circumstances.
- Sometimes referred to as a Section 48 (S48)
- You can request a reassessment at any time if your situation has changed
- Your request should include supporting documentation that explains what has changed and how it affects your support needs.
Internal review of a decision.
- Sometimes referred to as a Section 100 (S100)
- If you receive a new plan or funding decision that you don’t agree with, such as a support being declined following a plan reassessment, you can request an internal review
- This must be done within three months of receiving the decision.
You can also update your goals and some information, such as contact details, without requesting a full reassessment. This is called a ‘plan variation’. However, the NDIS may still treat your request as a reassessment, depending on what changes you ask for.
Book a free Leap in! pre-planning session.
Preparing for a plan reassessment can feel overwhelming. Our Crew here at Leap in! can help get you started and feel more prepared with a free pre-planning session.
Call us on 1300 05 78 78 to arrange a time.
