How to prepare for your NDIS planning meeting

Know what the meeting is for

The planner's job is to understand your disability, your daily life and your goals, then decide what supports are reasonable and necessary. They can only fund what they understand, so the clearer your picture, the better your plan.

Bring the right evidence

• Recent reports from your therapists, including a functional capacity assessment if you have one
• Letters from your GP or specialists describing your diagnosis and how it affects you
• A list of the supports you currently use, formal and informal
• Quotes or assessments for any equipment or home modifications you need

Describe a typical day honestly

Planners ask about your 'worst day', not your best. Talk through a normal day from waking to bed: what you can do alone, what takes much longer, and what you need help with. Don't downplay difficulties out of politeness — the plan has to cover them.

Write goals that connect to supports

Good goals are specific and personal: 'catch the bus to TAFE on my own' rather than 'be more independent'. Each goal should link to the supports you're asking for, so the planner can see why they're needed.

Bring someone with you

A family member, support coordinator or advocate can take notes, prompt you and make sure nothing is missed. You can also ask for an interpreter.

After the meeting

Ask how long the decision will take and how you'll receive the plan. When it arrives, check it against what you asked for. If something important is missing, you have the right to ask for a review — and we can help with the evidence.