How to Appeal NDIS Plan Decisions: Complete Guide to Internal and External Reviews
If your NDIS plan does not include the supports you need, or the funding does not match your daily living requirements, you have the right to appeal the decision. Appealing is not complaining. It is ensuring your plan accurately reflects your functional needs and goals. The NDIS has a formal process that allows participants to request reviews and have decisions reassessed.
Table of Contents
Why You May Need to Appeal an NDIS Plan Decision
You may consider an appeal if:
| Situation | Why it happens |
|---|---|
| Funding does not meet daily support needs | The NDIS determined lower functional impact than what is true in real life |
| Necessary supports were not included | The support may have been considered not reasonable and necessary |
| Funding placed in the wrong category | Support is needed in Core but allocated to Capacity Building, for example |
| Your needs have changed | Health condition changes, living situation shifts or added safety risks |
| New evidence became available | Clinical assessments or therapist reports show updated functional needs |
Appealing a decision is your right, and many participants successfully receive revised plans after providing clearer information and evidence.
Step 1: How to Appeal NDIS Plan Decisions: Internal Review Explained
You must request an internal review within 3 months of receiving the decision in writing.
During an internal review:
- A different NDIS officer reassesses the decision
- They use the information and evidence you provide
- You will be updated once a new decision is made
How to request it
You can request an internal review by:
- Calling 1800 800 110
- Completing the internal review form
- Submitting via the NDIS contact web form
- Visiting your nearest office, partner or service centre listed here: Find an NDIS or Partner Office
Step 2: If You Still Disagree, Apply for an External Review
If you are not satisfied with the internal review decision, you can apply for an external review through the Administrative Review Tribunal.
The Tribunal is independent of the NDIS, meaning they review the decision fairly and from the outside.
Official reference: Administrative Review Tribunal
Review Pathway Overview
| Review stage | Who reviews it | When to request | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internal Review | NDIS | Within 3 months of decision | Decision may change or remain the same |
| External Review | Administrative Review Tribunal | After internal review outcome | Final decision, legally binding |
What Evidence Helps Your Appeal
When learning how to appeal NDIS plan decisions, evidence is the most important part. The clearer and more specific your evidence, the stronger your request.
| Evidence Type | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Functional assessments | Show how disability affects daily life | OT assessment, physiotherapist report |
| Clinical letters | Confirm diagnosis and ongoing needs | GP summary, specialist treatment plan |
| Daily living impact statement | Explain real everyday challenges | Morning routine difficulty, fatigue level |
| Carer or family statement | Provides context from lived experience | How much support is required and when |
| Risk or safety considerations | Highlights urgency or necessity | Falls risk, choking risk, wandering risk |
| Provider quotes and rosters | Show the cost and structure of support | SIL rosters, therapy session schedules |
Important Tip
To understand what the NDIS considers reasonable and necessary supports, you can review the official explanation on the NDIS website: Reasonable and Necessary Supports
How to Write Your Appeal in a Clear and Effective Way
Use this structure:
- What part of the decision you disagree with
Example: Core supports funding does not meet daily living assistance needs. - Why you disagree
Explain using clear examples from everyday life. - What supports you need and how much
Include hours per week, support type and who provides it. - Attach evidence
Reference each attachment with numbers or labels.
Tone to use
- Clear
- Factual
- Respectful
- Focused on safety, independence, and daily functioning
Overly emotional language is usually less effective than specific daily examples.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | What to do instead |
|---|---|
| Only describing diagnosis | Describe functional impact |
| Saying “I need more support” | Show how much, when, and why |
| Submitting no new evidence | Provide updated assessments if possible |
| Using emotional language | Use practical examples and safety risks |
How STARR Care Supports Participants During the Appeal Process
Appealing a decision can feel overwhelming.
We assist with:
- Gathering and explaining evidence
- Writing daily living impact statements
- Preparing structured review requests
- Clarifying support categories and budgets
- Coordinating therapist assessments when needed
Learn more about our support services: Trusted Registered NDIS Provider in South Hedland
We help you understand your plan and use it confidently.
Get In Touch
📧 Email us at: info@starrcare.com.au
📍 Visit us: Unit 3, Brand Street, South Hedland WA 6722
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