How to Prepare for Your First NDIS Planning Meeting
If you’ve recently been approved for the National Disability Insurance Scheme, your next big step is attending your first planning meeting. This is where you'll work with an NDIS planner or Local Area Coordinator to shape your plan and get the supports that matter most to you.
At Apex Support Services, we’ve supported many Australians through this stage and know how important it is to feel confident going into that meeting.
What is the National Disability Insurance Scheme?
Before diving into planning, it’s worth taking a quick moment to understand what the NDIS actually is. The National Disability Insurance Scheme is a government-funded initiative that provides support to Australians with permanent and significant disabilities. The aim is to help people live more independently, participate in the community, and reach their goals.
Your first planning meeting is where it all begins—getting the right support starts here.
Read More in Details: National Disability Insurance Scheme: Everything You Need to Know
What to Bring to Your NDIS Planning Meeting
Being prepared helps make the planning process smoother and ensures nothing important gets missed. Here’s what you should consider bringing to your first NDIS meeting:
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Your personal details – name, address, date of birth, NDIS reference number.
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Medical or diagnostic reports – anything that helps explain your disability.
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Current supports – information about services or therapies you're using now.
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Your daily routine – describe what your typical day looks like, including any challenges.
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Goals – think about short-term and long-term goals you’d like to achieve.
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Support people – a family member, friend, or support worker can come with you.
Tip: Write down notes beforehand or bring a support coordinator with you to help explain your needs clearly.
Talking About Your Needs and Goals
In your meeting, the planner will ask how your disability affects your life and what kind of support you need. This includes things like transport, assistive technology, or help with daily tasks.
Start thinking about what you need help with across areas such as:
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Living independently
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Accessing the community
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Attending appointments or work
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Health and therapy supports
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Support with learning new skills
Be honest and open—this is your chance to explain your everyday experience so your plan reflects what you genuinely need.
What Happens After the Meeting?
After the meeting, your planner will put together a plan based on what was discussed. You’ll receive this plan in writing. If something doesn’t look right or you think there’s been a mistake, you can request a review.
Once your plan is approved, it’s time to start using your funding. This is where providers like Apex Support Services can step in to help you connect with the right supports.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for your first NDIS planning meeting can feel overwhelming, but going in organised can make all the difference. Take your time to think through your needs, bring along the right documents, and don’t be afraid to speak up about what’s important to you.
Remember, the goal of the National Disability Insurance Scheme is to provide support that improves your everyday life—so the more accurate your planning, the better your outcome.
Need support with your first NDIS plan or unsure where to start?
At Apex Support Services, we help participants navigate the process with confidence and make sure they’re set up for success.
Let us know how we can help – your journey with the NDIS starts here.
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