Navigating Your First NDIS Plan – A Step-by-Step Guide
Starting your journey with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel like learning a new language. Forms, planning meetings, eligibility rules — it’s a lot to take in. But you’re not alone.
At Sunny Well-being Services, we’ve supported many first-time participants across Mildura and beyond. This guide breaks the process into simple, clear steps, so you feel more confident and in control.
✅ Step 1: Recognise Your Need for Support
The first step is understanding that NDIS support is your right — not a privilege.
You don’t need to struggle in silence. Whether your disability is visible or not, if it impacts your daily life, you may be eligible for funded help.
Tip: Think about tasks you find difficult, tiring, or unsafe to do alone.
✅ Step 2: Learn About the NDIS
Before applying, it helps to understand how the NDIS works. Visit www.ndis.gov.au and learn key terms like:
- “reasonable and necessary supports”
- “core supports”
- “capacity building”
This knowledge helps you explain your needs clearly during your plan creation.
✅ Step 3: Check Your Eligibility
To qualify for the NDIS, you must:
- Be under 65 years old
- Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Have a permanent and significant disability that affects daily life
You’ll need medical or professional evidence to back up your application.
✅ Step 4: Make an Access Request
You can apply by:
- Calling the NDIS on 1800 800 110
- Completing the Access Request Form
- Asking a GP, support worker, or service provider for help
Take your time and make sure all documents are complete.
✅ Step 5: Gather Relevant Documents
This might include:
- Medical reports
- Therapy assessments
- School or work history
- A list of current supports (formal and informal)
🟢 Organise everything in a folder or digital file so it’s easy to access for the planning meeting.
✅ Step 6: Contact a Support Coordinator (if available)
Even before your plan is approved, some organisations (like ours) can help you understand the process and prepare documents.
Tip: A good coordinator can also attend your meeting with you and help advocate for your needs.
✅ Step 7: Reflect on Your Daily Life
What do your days look like? Where do you need help?
Think about:
- Getting dressed
- Cooking meals
- Going out
- Feeling safe
- Making decisions
- Accessing mental health care
Write down any challenges you face.
✅ Step 8: Set Clear Personal Goals
NDIS plans are goal-driven. That means your supports should help you:
- Become more independent
- Connect socially
- Start working or volunteering
- Build skills at home
Make a list of what you want to achieve in 6–12 months.
✅ Step 9: Identify the Supports You Need
Once you know your goals, think about what services or equipment will help you get there:
- Personal care?
- Therapy?
- Transport?
- A support worker?
- Social outings?
Be specific and honest. This shapes your funding.
✅ Step 10: Attend the Planning Meeting
Your planning meeting can be:
- In person
- On the phone
- With a Local Area Coordinator (LAC)
Bring:
- Your documents
- Your list of goals
- A support person (if possible)
Speak clearly, and remember: this is your plan. Your voice matters.
✅ Step 11: Ask Questions
Don’t hesitate to ask:
- “What does this term mean?”
- “Can I choose my providers?”
- “What happens if my needs change?”
You have the right to understand everything. There are no silly questions.
✅ Step 12: Review Your Approved Plan
When you receive your NDIS plan:
- Check the budget amounts
- Confirm your goals are listed
- Understand who manages the funds (you, a provider, or NDIA)
📩 If something looks wrong, you can request a review.
✅ Bonus Tip: Start Small, But Start Strong
Once your plan is live, begin using your supports — even one service at a time.
Contact providers (like us), book sessions, and begin tracking your progress.
Need Help Navigating Your First NDIS Plan?
At Sunny Well-being Services, we help participants:
- Apply for the NDIS
- Prepare for their first plan
- Connect with services that match their goals
- Understand every step, from planning to reviews
Call us today or 📧 contact us here — let’s walk this journey together.