Telling the NDIS Your Situation Has Changed
A change of circumstances on the NDIS: what counts, when and how to tell the NDIA your situation has changed, and what usually happens next.
Life does not stand still, and neither do your support needs. When something meaningful changes, you can let the NDIA know rather than waiting for your next scheduled reassessment. This guide explains what a change of circumstances means, what usually counts, how to report it, and what tends to happen afterwards, so you can act with confidence.
What a change of circumstances means
What usually counts as a change
How to tell the NDIS
What happens next
Staying steady through the change
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to report every small change?
No. You report changes that meaningfully affect your support needs or your plan, such as a change in your functional needs, living situation or informal supports. If you are unsure, it is fine to ask your support coordinator or LAC whether something is worth reporting.
Will reporting a change trigger a full reassessment?
Not always. A minor change might be handled through a plan variation, while a bigger change may lead to a full reassessment. The NDIA decides based on what has changed. Our guide Light-Touch vs Full Reassessment explains both.
Could reporting a change reduce my funding?
The aim is to keep your plan accurate, not to cut it. If your needs have increased, your plan may reflect that. If you are worried, our guide Avoiding a Funding Cut explains how to show ongoing need clearly.
What evidence should I include?
Anything that shows what has changed and how it affects you, such as a recent therapy report, letter from a health professional, or your own clear description. Evidence for a Reassessment covers this in more detail.
Will my supports stop while the change is being considered?
Generally no. Your existing supports usually continue while the NDIA considers the change, so you are not left without help. If you are worried about a gap, raise it early with your support coordinator or LAC.
How do I actually report the change?
You can contact the NDIA directly, or ask your support coordinator or LAC to help. Describe what changed, when, and how it affects your daily life, and keep a note of when you reported it and who you spoke with.