Preparing for your first NDIS planning meeting can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. This meeting is your chance to share your needs, goals, and the kind of support you want from the NDIS. With the right preparation, you can walk in feeling confident and walk out with a plan that truly supports your life.
At Here to Thrive, we support participants before, during, and after their planning meetings. This guide will help you prepare step by step so you can get the most from your NDIS plan.
Step 1: Understand the Purpose of the Meeting
The NDIS planning meeting is your opportunity to:
- Share how your disability affects your daily life
- Set your short- and long-term goals
- Discuss the supports and services you need
This information will help the NDIS create a plan that reflects your individual situation.
Step 2: Gather Important Documents
Bring any documents that help explain your condition and support needs. These may include:
- Medical reports or therapy assessments
- Letters from doctors or specialists
- Current support services you use
- Any goals or plans you’ve written down
Organising these in advance will make it easier to clearly explain your needs.
Step 3: Think About Your Goals
The NDIS is a goals-based scheme. Think about what you want to achieve in areas like:
- Daily living
- Work and education
- Health and wellbeing
- Community participation
Example: “I want to learn to cook independently” or “I want to find a part-time job.”
Step 4: Make a List of Everyday Challenges
Be ready to talk about the difficulties you face each day. Think about:
- Personal care and hygiene
- Moving around at home or in the community
- Cooking, cleaning, or shopping
- Communication and social interactions
Being specific helps the planner understand where support is most needed.
Step 5: Consider the Types of Support You Need
Think about the kind of help that would make life easier, such as:
- Support workers for personal care
- Transport to appointments or activities
- Therapy services (occupational, speech, etc.)
- Equipment or home modifications
The more detailed you are, the better your plan will reflect your needs.
Step 6: Ask a Support Person to Join You
You don’t have to do this alone. You can bring:
- A family member or friend
- Your current support worker
- A representative from Here to Thrive
Having someone by your side can make the conversation easier and ensure nothing important is missed.
Step 7: Know What Happens After the Meeting
After your meeting, the NDIS will develop and send you your plan. If you’re not happy with it, you can:
- Ask for a review
- Work with your support coordinator (like Here to Thrive) to make changes later
We support you at every step of your NDIS journey:
- Help preparing documents and goals before the meeting
- Attending the meeting with you (if needed)
- Providing support coordination once your plan is approved
We make sure your voice is heard and your plan works for your life.
