NDIS Plan Renewal: What You Need to Know
Your National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) plan is more than just a document; it’s a blueprint for your journey toward greater independence, better support, and achieving your goals. But as time progresses, your needs and aspirations may evolve, and your plan must evolve with them. That’s where the NDIS plan renewal comes in.
An NDIS plan renewal is the process of reviewing and updating your existing NDIS plan. Use this opportunity to address any changes you need to make to your plan. If you’re happy with your current plan and it still aligns with your goals, your plan can be automatically extended.
At Maple, we are committed to sharing our inside knowledge into the world of NDIS plan renewal. We’ll help to shed light on why it’s a crucial element of your plan, what to expect, how to prepare for the plan review and navigate the process effectively. We want you to view it as a dynamic tool for enhancing your independence, autonomy and ultimately your quality of life.
What is an NDIS plan renewal?
When you’re coming up to the end of your NDIS plan, your LAC and the NDIA will reassess your circumstances and decide whether you need:
A plan extension – this is the same plan you’ve had previously, with the same budget, extended for one month or up to a year. This can also be used if your plan renewal or review is still in progress to give you more time to get your new plan outlined and approved.
A plan renewal – this is where you will reassess your plan and create a new plan with necessary changes to your supports or budget, made for a new period. You will discuss any changes you need with your LAC and NDIA before a plan renewal goes ahead.
A plan review – this is a more extensive review of your NDIS plan. Especially if you have had significant changes in your circumstances. An in-person meeting is usually set with your LAC and the NDIA to review your plan and implement any changes to your supports and budget.
Ultimately, you are in control of your plan and you can decide what changes you need, if any, to your plan. All of the above options need to ensure that your plan remains aligned with your current needs, goals and circumstances.
Do I need a plan renewal?
Under the recent NDIS reboot, the focus is on transitioning eligible participants towards long-term planning. This shift allows providers to enhance current plans and adapt to changes as they arise, eliminating the need for annual plan reviews and the associated resource allocation. As part of this shift, your plan will be automatically renewed at the end of its designated period.
Nevertheless, it’s important to note that a plan reassessment can still be arranged around this timeframe, offering you a valuable opportunity for review and potential enhancements that cater to your evolving needs and aspirations.
How often are NDIS plans renewed?
The NDIS will assess how long your plan should go for based on your unique circumstances. For example, if your living situation and support needs are stable you may get up to a 36 month plan. But for those whose circumstances are likely to change sooner than that the length of your plan will more likely be 12 months. To find out more the NDIS offers a plan duration guidance on their website.
A plan reassessment may seem like a daunting prospect, and understandably, it can induce stress in some participants. However, it represents an opportunity to carefully assess your goals and make improvements to your plan. In doing so, the plan renewal process becomes valuable and advantageous to participants, offering the potential for significant benefits.
How do I prepare for the NDIS plan renewal?
Preparing for your NDIS plan renewal is essential to ensure that your plan accurately reflects your current needs, goals, and aspirations. By being well-prepared and actively engaging in the process, you can get the most out of your renewal. Here are some steps to help you prepare effectively:
Review your current plan
Take the time to go through your existing plan. Make note of the goals you set, the services and supports you received, and any areas where you feel adjustments are needed.
Identify changes and progress
Highlight any changes in your circumstances since your last plan, as well as any progress you’ve made towards achieving your goals. This could include changes in your health, living situation, or personal circumstances.
Set clear goals
Consider what you want to achieve in the coming year. Are there new goals you want to pursue, or do your existing goals need to be adjusted? Ensure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound (SMART).
Gather supporting documentation
Collect any relevant documents that can help support your case during the review. This might include medical reports, assessments, or evidence of your progress.
Consult with your service providers
Talk to your current provider to get their input on your progress and your ongoing needs. They can provide valuable feedback, insights and recommendations.
Seek feedback
If you’re already receiving NDIS supports, gather feedback from your support workers and carers. Their observations can provide additional perspectives on your needs.
Think about your future
Consider your long term goals and how your NDIS plan can help you to achieve them. Are there any skills you want to develop or activities that you want to participate in?
Understand NDIS pricing
Familiarise yourself with the NDIS price guide, which outlines the costs associated with various supports and services. Understanding pricing can help you make informed decisions during your plan review.
Prepare questions
Think about any questions or concerns you have about your current plan or the NDIS in general. Being prepared to ask questions during your review can help clarify any uncertainties.
Advocate for yourself
Be prepared to advocate for your needs and preferences. Clearly express what is important to you and what supports you require to achieve your goals.
Maple Services assumes a crucial role in supporting individuals with disabilities throughout the NDIS plan renewal process. With our proficiency in NDIS plan management services and our commitment to comprehensive NDIS plan support, we are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and maintain the highest possible quality of life. Contact us today for more information about how Maple can help you.
