How to Request a Review of an NDIS Decision

When a person receives a decision from the NDIA, it may not always reflect what was expected. It can be confusing, sometimes disappointing, and at times unclear. In such moments, understanding what rights you hold as an NDIS participant or nominee matters. The NDIS gives you the ability to ask for that decision to be reviewed. This is not a privilege; it is built into the framework so that participants can question the decisions affecting their support.

It begins by knowing what type of review you are asking for. The language used can be technical, and getting that part wrong can delay the process. There are mainly two types of reviews that come up again and again. One is an internal review of an NDIA decision, and the other is a plan reassessment. The first is about challenging a decision already made by the NDIA. The second is about the plan itself — what it includes or what may have changed.

The internal review of a decision

The NDIA makes many decisions, and most of them can be reviewed. These are known as “reviewable decisions.” The NDIS Act, under Section 99, outlines about twenty-five of them. When you ask for this type of review, it is formally called a review of a reviewable decision, often referred to as a RoRD or an S100 review because it comes under Section 100 of the legislation.

You can request this review if you believe the NDIA made a wrong call — for example, refusing access to the NDIS, removing certain supports or not approving funding for equipment or therapy that you think is necessary. The important point is time. You have three months from when you receive the decision to lodge your review.

An internal review is not a fresh start, but it is a new assessment. Someone different from the original decision maker will review the same information and any new evidence you provide. The aim is to check whether the decision was made correctly under the NDIS Act and rules. You can include updated reports, quotes, or any written statements that demonstrate why the decision should be changed. It does not need to be lengthy, but it should be clear.

Plan reassessment and when it applies

A plan reassessment deals more with the content of your NDIS plan. It is not about questioning a decision of access or eligibility but about whether the current plan meets your needs. There are three key points when this can happen.

First, at the end of the plan period, when the NDIA conducts a full reassessment. This is standard and should happen before your plan expires.

Second, within three months of receiving a new plan, if the participant or their nominee believes it does not reflect what was discussed or expected.

Third, at any point during the plan, if there has been a significant change — in health, environment, or support circumstances — that affects the participant’s needs. This is sometimes called a “change of circumstances” reassessment.

When asking for this, you will need to provide current evidence. For instance, updated health or therapy reports, or written details showing how your situation has changed. The NDIA will then consider whether the existing funding and supports remain suitable or whether a new plan should be issued.

How to request a review

Whenever the NDIA makes a decision, they must send written notice explaining what was decided and how to ask for a review. The request can be made in several ways:

By post

Chief Executive Officer

National Disability Insurance Agency

GPO Box 700

Canberra ACT 2601

By email

enquiries@ndis.gov.au

By phone

1800 800 110

In person

You may also visit a Local Area Coordinator (LAC), Early Childhood Partner or any NDIS office.

It is also useful to add your full name, NDIS number and the information about what decision you would like to have reviewed in your message. Indicate the date that the letter relates to and give a pithy reason as to why you feel it is wrong or unreasonable. Insert attachments, where possible, invoices, medical letters or quotes. These documents will be in your favour to prove your case or make things easier. Always make a copy of all that you send.

What happens next

After you have made a request, the NDIA will get back to you and ensure it fits the criteria of a reviewable decision. It will be heard by a fresh delegate, not being present in the original decision. Additional information or documentation may be requested. When the review is over, another letter will be sent to you that will tell you what has happened, and why.

If you are not satisfied after the internal review

If the internal review does not result in a satisfactory outcome, you still have another option. You can take the matter to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). The AAT is separate from the NDIA and exists to review government agency decisions independently. It can reassess a wide range of NDIS decisions, including access refusals, funding matters, and nominee appointments.

You can only apply to the AAT after the NDIA’s internal review has finished. When you apply, you will need to outline which decision you are appealing and why. The process is more formal but still free for NDIS participants. Many people seek help from disability advocacy services or legal aid offices at this stage.

Points to keep in mind

Following the basic steps of clarity and preparation makes the NDIS review process less repetitive. Be concise with your communication, tidy your records and keep your evidence up to date. An inaccurate one-page information is more powerful than a protracted application with loose arguments. Note your own time constraints, and when you get behind, it may be too late to consider it.

It is valuable to realise your right to appeal a decision. The system allows it and is maintained that mistakes made occur, and these are correction mechanisms available by way of such reviews. Although it may be time-consuming, the process can be facilitated by being organised, collecting evidence, and record keeping. The NDIS is designed to create equity and these actions enable the participants a chance to be heard when something does not appear right.