Disagreeing with Your NDIS Plan? Here’s What to Do Next
Disagreeing with Your NDIS Plan? Here’s What to Do Next
- July 28, 2025
It’s completely normal to feel uncertain or frustrated if you don’t agree with the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) plan that’s been provided to you. Whether you feel your needs aren’t fully addressed or the supports don’t align with your goals, the good news is that there are clear steps you can take to get things back on track.
Let’s go through the steps together to make sure your NDIS plan accurately represents your needs.
1. Understand Your NDIS Plan
Receiving your NDIS plan for the first time can feel a little overwhelming. The plan outlines the funding and services that are available to you, but sometimes, the allocation of funds or the services suggested might not be exactly what you had in mind. Before jumping into action, take a moment to review your plan carefully.
Ask yourself:
- Does this plan reflect my current needs and goals?
- Are there areas where the funding is either too much or not enough?
- Are all of my necessary supports and services included?
If you feel that something is missing or doesn’t quite work for you, it’s important to take action sooner rather than later.
2. Talk to Your NDIS Contact, Support Coordinator, or Recovery Coach
If you’re feeling unsure about your plan, your first step should be to get in touch with your NDIS contact, support coordinator, or recovery coach. They can help explain the decisions made, clarify how your funding is intended to work, and even offer suggestions on how you can use the available supports.
Your support coordinator or recovery coach is there to ensure your plan works for you. They can assist in bridging the gap between you and the NDIS, helping to clear up any confusion. They may even help identify areas of your plan that can be adjusted to meet your needs more effectively.
3. Request a Breakdown of Your Funding
If you’re unsure about how the total funding amount has been allocated, you have the right to ask for a funding breakdown. By contacting your NDIS contact or provider, you can request a detailed breakdown of how the funding has been distributed across different services and supports.
Knowing exactly how your funds are allocated can sometimes clear up misunderstandings and help you see how your goals are being supported.
4. Ask for Written Reasons for the Decision
If you’re not happy with the way your plan was approved, you can also request written reasons for the decision. The NDIS can provide a detailed explanation of why certain decisions were made. This transparency helps you understand the reasoning behind the choices and can sometimes help identify if any important details were missed in your application or review.
5. Request an Internal Review
If you’ve gone through all the information and you still don’t agree with your plan, you have the option to ask for an internal review. This means that someone who wasn’t involved in your plan’s original creation will review the decision to approve your plan. They will look at whether the decision was made in accordance with NDIS rules and whether it reflects your needs appropriately.
The NDIS gives you a window of 3 months from the time you receive your plan to request an internal review. If you’re still unsure or feel that your needs haven’t been met, it’s essential to take this step before the three months are up.
6. Know Your Rights and Timelines
When requesting an internal review, remember that you have a limited time to take action. The three-month timeframe is important because it gives you the opportunity to ensure your concerns are addressed promptly.
The internal review process is a fair and transparent system, where an independent decision-maker will look at your case. It’s a way to make sure that all decisions are in line with the NDIS guidelines and that you’re getting the supports you deserve.
7. External Review – Taking It a Step Further
If, after an internal review, you believe the NDIS decision doesn’t align with your needs, you can take your case to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). This is the final stage of the appeal process, where an independent body will reassess your case. It’s more formal and may require legal assistance, but it is available for those who feel that all other options have been exhausted.
8. Get Support From a Plan Manager
If you’re unsure how to navigate all of these steps or you simply need someone to help manage your NDIS funding and services, working with an NDIS plan manager can be a game-changer. Plan managers are professionals who assist with budgeting, service delivery, and managing the financial side of your NDIS plan. They’re experienced in guiding you through the review process and advocating for your needs.
When looking for a plan manager, you might start with a quick search for “NDIS plan managers near me” or read through best NDIS plan manager reviews. Having the right support can help ensure that your plan is flexible and tailored to your needs.
9. Communicate Clearly and Often
Open, honest communication with the NDIS is crucial. If something doesn’t seem right or you need to clarify how your funding can be used, reach out to your NDIS contact early on. It’s also a good idea to keep notes of all your communications and interactions, especially if you’re seeking a review or making an appeal. Clear documentation will support your case and make sure you don’t miss any steps.
Final Thoughts
If you don’t agree with your NDIS plan, don’t be discouraged. There are plenty of steps and options available to ensure your plan better matches your needs. From speaking to your support coordinator, requesting a funding breakdown, to applying for an internal review – there’s always a way to advocate for what’s best for you.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t forget that help is available. Seek out an NDIS plan manager or support coordinator who can guide you through the process. With the right support and a clear understanding of your options, you can ensure your NDIS plan works in your favour.
Have you ever disagreed with your NDIS plan? What steps did you take? Share your experiences in the comments below – your journey could help others in similar situations!
Let’s Chat
If you’re unsure about an NDIS decision, feeling stuck, or just need a bit of support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Concept Care is here to listen, guide, and help you figure out the next step. Together, we can navigate the complexities of the NDIS and ensure that the plan you receive works for you.
Contact Concept Care today — because navigating the NDIS is so much easier when you have someone in your corner.
Recommended to read: NDIS Application: How to Apply for the NDIS – A Simple Guide for First-Timers