7 Common NDIS Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Planning NDIS can be even tougher when it’s your first time. There’s so much to think about—funding, supports, goals, paperwork. And sometimes, mistakes happen. These mistakes can affect how well your plan works for you.
But here’s the good news: most NDIS planning mistakes are avoidable.
In this blog, we’ll cover the seven most common mistakes people make with their NDIS plan—and show you how to avoid them. Whether you’re in Melbourne, Perth, Albury-Wodonga, or the Mornington Peninsula, this guide can help.
1. Not Preparing for Your Planning Meeting
Many people walk into their NDIS meeting without being prepared. That makes it harder to get the right support.
How to avoid it:
- Write down your goals before the meeting.
- Bring reports or letters from your doctors or therapists.
- Ask someone you trust to come with you.
- Talk to a support coordinator if you need help.
Good preparation means better outcomes.
2. Not Understanding Your Plan Management Options
There are three ways to manage your NDIS funds. Many people don’t know the difference and choose the wrong one.
How to avoid it:
- Learn about self-managed, plan-managed, and NDIA-managed options.
- Think about what’s easiest for you.
- Talk to a plan manager before your meeting.
- Ask questions during your planning meeting.
Picking the right management style makes using your funds easier.
3. Overlooking Plan Reviews
NDIS plans are reviewed every year or so. Skipping reviews or not preparing can leave you with supports you don’t need—or missing ones you do.
How to avoid it:
- Keep notes on what’s working and what’s not.
- Bring updated reports to your review meeting.
- Tell the NDIA if your needs change.
- Treat it like a planning meeting—prepare!
Plan reviews help your supports grow with you.
4. Not Using Your Funding
Some people don’t use all their funding. This can lead to reduced support in the next plan.
How to avoid it:
- Understand what you can use your funding for.
- Check your budget often.
- Book services early in your plan.
- Ask your plan manager or support coordinator to help.
If you don’t use it, you lose it.
5. Not Speaking Up About Your Needs
If you don’t explain your needs clearly, your plan may not meet them.
How to avoid it:
- Be honest and specific about your challenges.
- Take someone to your meeting to help you talk.
- Write a list of what you want before the meeting.
- Ask for a change if your situation changes.
Your voice matters. Use it.
6. Not Understanding Support Coordination
Support Coordination is in many plans—but people often don’t use it properly.
How to avoid it:
- Know what a Support Coordinator does.
- Ask for Support Coordination in your plan if you need help.
- Work with them closely—they can guide you.
- Choose someone local who understands your area.
A good Support Coordinator can make everything easier.
7. Sticking to the Same Services Without Exploring
Some people use the same providers without checking if they’re the best fit.
How to avoid it:
- Look around. There are many great providers out there.
- Ask others for recommendations.
- Try new supports if you’re not happy.
- Think about joining local groups or clubs too.
Don’t settle. Find what works best for you.
What to Do If You’ve Made a Mistake
Made a mistake in your plan? That’s okay. Here’s what to do:
- Ask the NDIA to fix small errors (like typos or wrong amounts).
- Request a review if your needs change.
- Talk to your Support Coordinator—they can help sort it out.
- Don’t wait. The sooner you speak up, the better.
Conclusion
NDIS planning doesn’t have to be hard. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll feel more confident and in control.
Need help with your plan? 360 Support Coordination is here for you. We work with participants across Melbourne, Perth, Albury-Wodonga, and more.
Let’s make your NDIS plan work better—for you.
