Changing Your NDIS Plan: Variations, Reassessments & How to Request Changes

Understanding NDIS Plan Changes

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is designed to give participants the reasonable and necessary supports they need to achieve their goals, build skills, and maximise independence.

However, as your circumstances and needs change, your plan may also need to change. This can happen through a plan variation or a plan reassessment.

For further details, you can review the official NDIS Guideline – Changing Your Plan on the NDIS website.

Two Types of Plan Changes

There are two main ways the NDIS can adjust your plan:

1️⃣ Plan Variations

A plan variation is a small change to your current plan.
Your existing plan continues, but certain sections are updated.

Examples of plan variations include:

• Updating your goals

• Changing your contact details

• Adjusting your plan reassessment date

• Modifying the way your funds are managed

• Altering funding amounts or funding periods

• Adding short-term funding for sudden changes in circumstances

Note: If a variation changes your funding, it must still meet the NDIS funding criteria.

2️⃣ Plan Reassessments

A plan reassessment involves looking at your entire plan and potentially creating a completely new one.

A reassessment is needed when:

• You require more significant changes than a plan variation can provide

• Your plan no longer meets your needs

• The reassessment date in your plan is approaching

• Funding components and periods need updating under new NDIS laws

When Your Situation Changes

You should tell the NDIS as soon as your situation changes to ensure your supports meet your needs.
This could include:

• Changes in your health condition

• Moving to a new location

• Changes to your informal supports (family, carers, friends)

You can speak to your Support Coordinator, Recovery Coach, or my NDIS Contact about your changes.

The Plan Reassessment Process

• Around 3 months before your plan’s reassessment date, the NDIS will arrange a check-in meeting.

• This is an opportunity to discuss your goals, supports, and any changes in needs.

• If nothing significant has changed, you may receive a new plan with the same supports.

• If changes are required, a new plan will be created with updated funding.

How to Request Changes to Your Plan

You can request changes at any time by:

• Talking to your my NDIS Contact, Support Coordinator, or Recovery Coach

• Completing the Change of Details or Change of Situation Form

• Calling 1800 800 110

• Visiting an NDIS Office

You may need to provide:

• Medical assessments

• Allied health reports

• Evidence supporting the need for changes

If it’s a simple plan variation, evidence is usually not required.

What Happens After You Apply

• The NDIS will decide within 21 days or request more information.

• If approved, your new plan will be issued.

• If not approved, the NDIS will explain why and inform you of your review rights.

How Complete Money Management Can Help

At Complete Money Management, we specialise in NDIS Plan Management and can:

• Help you understand if a variation or reassessment is right for you

• Support you in gathering the required evidence

• Liaise with the NDIS on your behalf

• Ensure your funding is managed effectively

📞 Contact us today to discuss your NDIS plan needs and how we can help you get the right supports in place.

Internal Links:

• NDIS Funding Criteria Explained

External Links:

• NDIS – Changing Your Plan

• NDIS Evidence Requirements