A Guide to Requesting an NDIS Plan Reassessment

Sometimes life changes — and when it does, your NDIS plan might need to change too. The good thing is, you can ask for a plan reassessment at any time during your plan period. You don’t have to wait for it to expire.

It is always good to inform the NDIS early enough in case something big is going on, or if you are knowingly aware that something is about to change. This would assist in ensuring that your plan will remain pertinent, your funding will continue to exist and your support will be according to what you require at this point.

In the case of kids, it is about what is going on at home, perhaps the caring has switched sides, or schools or houses changed. Put those things down clearly when you need to contact. The principle is straightforward; tell what has changed, when, and how it impacts your day-to-day life, and what you currently have to rely upon.

Changes You Should Tell the NDIS About

These are just examples, not a full list — but if any of these sound familiar, it’s worth letting the Agency know:

• Your contact details, nominee, or representative have changed.
• There’s been a relapse, decline, or hospital stay, and your support needs have increased.
• You’ve improved and now need less support — maybe after rehab or successful therapy.
• Your carer’s situation has changed — like illness, separation, or moving away.
• Your living arrangement has changed or will soon — maybe a new home, SDA/ILO setup, or safety issues at your current place.
• Your work or study has started, stopped, or changed hours.
• You’ve received or are expecting a compensation payout.

Some changes are small and can be handled with a plan variation (quick, minor update). Others are larger and lead to a full reassessment, where your plan and funding might be reconsidered. Once you report a change, the NDIA will tell you which process applies.

If you’re unsure, check the NDIS guidance on plan reviews and reviewing a decision — they’re separate processes with different rules.

Scheduled vs Unscheduled Reassessments

There are two main types of reassessments under the NDIS:

1. Scheduled Reassessment

This is the routine one. It happens close to your plan’s end date as part of the normal review cycle.

2. Unscheduled (Participant-Requested) Reassessment

You can ask for this anytime under Section 48(1) of the NDIS Act if something in your life changes. You will have to demonstrate the change in action, and the Agency determines whether to be flexible with your plan or to institute a new one.

Nevertheless, they have several limits. You cannot demand an unscheduled review during the suspension of your plan. Suspension can happen if, for example:

• You’re outside Australia for more than six weeks (unless the NDIA approves an extension), or
• You haven’t pursued a compensation claim after being asked to.

You can find the full list of suspension reasons on the official NDIS website.

What Kind of Evidence Helps

Keep it short and specific. The NDIA doesn’t need long letters — just clear, recent information that links your needs to your goals.

Some helpful examples:

• Allied health letters that show purpose, frequency, and duration (like “OT, 1 hour a week for 6 months, for safe meal prep”).
• GP or hospital summaries showing changes since your last plan.
• Carer statements explaining changes in support or capacity.
• Quotes for assistive technology or home modifications with reasons why they’re needed.
• A simple weekly schedule that highlights gaps in support, risks, or daily barriers.

Try to connect each change like this:

Goal → Functional impact → Support required.

How to Tell the NDIS About Changes

You can contact the NDIS in several ways — whichever’s easiest for you. Always keep copies of what you send.

• Change of Circumstances Form – download from the NDIS website and attach your evidence.
• Email: enquiries@ndis.gov.au (include your NDIS number, date of birth, and plan ID).
• Mail: NDIA, GPO Box 700, Canberra ACT 2601.
• Phone: 1800 800 110 — note down the date, time, and who you spoke with.
• Through your LAC: talk to your Local Area Coordinator or visit the local office.
• In person: drop your documents at an NDIS office near you.

When you contact them, be clear about:

• What changed, and when it happened (or will happen).
• How it affects your daily life and participation.
• What outcome you’re hoping for — a variation or a full reassessment.

If you’re unsure which is appropriate, just say you’re seeking the option the Agency finds suitable based on your evidence.

After You Submit Your Request

Once you’ve sent your request, the NDIA looks at it and decides next steps.

• Small updates might go through as a plan variation (quick adjustment).
• Bigger or ongoing changes might lead to a full reassessment and possibly a new plan.

They may also call you to ask questions, hence it is better to make everything accessible, preferably, in a single PDF file. When evidence is scattered, decisions can take longer.

If you disagree with the result, and it involves a funding decision (what’s approved or not approved), you may be able to request a review of a reviewable decision, but it must be done within the time limit.