New NDIS participants often feel unsure about how the first plan works. There may be questions about what the plan includes, how support is decided, or how to manage funding.
Without clear information, it’s easy to enter the process unprepared. This may lead to missed support or limited outcomes for key life goals.
This guide explains what to expect when starting an NDIS plan. It outlines how planning meetings are run, what types of support are included, and how participants can adjust their plan when needed.
What the NDIS Covers and Who It Supports
The NDIS provides funding for Australians under 65 with permanent and significant disability. The aim is to give access to services that support daily living, mobility, learning, social inclusion, and long-term independence.
Support must be considered reasonable and necessary. This includes assistance with personal care, transport, therapies, social programs, home modifications, and assistive equipment. Funding is matched to individual needs and goals set by the participant.
The NDIS does not assess income. Eligibility is based on disability, age, and residency. Plans are flexible and can be managed in different ways depending on the participant’s capacity or preference.
Early intervention support may be available if it helps to reduce long-term support needs or improve functional outcomes.
What to Expect During Your First Planning Meeting
The first NDIS plan is developed during a meeting with a Local Area Coordinator or NDIS planner. This may happen by phone or in person. The meeting will focus on the participant’s daily life, current support, challenges, and short-term and long-term goals.
Participants are encouraged to describe what tasks are difficult, how they complete them now, and what improvements they want to see. There is no need to bring formal documents, but written notes may help guide the conversation.
Someone else can attend the meeting as a support person. This might be a family member, friend, or carer. The goal of the meeting is to understand how best to match support funding with everyday needs and personal goals.
Those already receiving support through state-funded disability services may be contacted directly to transition into the NDIS.
What the First Plan Includes
The NDIS first plan outlines the goals set by the participant and the funding approved to support those goals. All funding is divided into three areas:
- Core support funding covers assistance with personal care, household tasks, transport, and community access.
- Capital support provides funding for equipment, assistive technology, or changes to the home or vehicle.
Each plan is structured with clear descriptions of the participant’s goals, what support is included, and how that support is intended to be used. Funding can only be used for approved supports that link to those goals.
Participants can choose their preferred providers. These may include NDIS-registered providers or others who meet the plan’s funding rules.
How to Use and Adjust the Plan
After the plan is approved, a Local Area Coordinator or NDIS contact will explain how to start using the funding. The participant can choose one of three ways to manage the plan:
- Participants who choose NDIA-managed funding have their providers paid directly by the NDIS through its system.
- Participants who self-manage their funding pay providers directly, track expenses, and request reimbursements through the portal.
- Participants who use a plan manager work with a registered service that handles provider payments and budget tracking.
Each option offers different levels of control and support. It is possible to change plan management methods at any time.
If a participant’s situation changes, a review can be requested. This could be due to new health needs, changes in living arrangements, or goals no longer being relevant. The request can be made by phone, in writing, by email, or in person at an NDIA office.
There is no need to wait until the plan ends. Participants have the right to ask for changes whenever support no longer matches their needs.
Need Help with Your First Plan?
ConnectAbility Australia provides support to help you navigate your first NDIS plan. Contact our team to ask questions or discuss your next steps.
FAQs
Can I delay using my NDIS plan after it’s approved?
Yes. You are not required to use all services immediately. You can start using supports when you’re ready, as long as it’s within the plan period.
What happens if I don’t use all of my funding?
Unused funds do not carry over. At the end of the plan period, the NDIS reviews funding use to help inform the next plan.
Can someone help me prepare for the planning meeting?
Yes. You can ask a family member, friend, support worker, or an advocate to help prepare notes or attend the meeting with you.
Will I receive a physical copy of my NDIS plan?
You can choose to receive your plan by post or access it digitally through the NDIS participant portal.
Does having a plan mean I must choose NDIS-registered providers?
Not always. If you self-manage or use a plan manager, you can work with unregistered providers if they meet safety and invoicing requirements.