The NDIS is well and truly here.

Check out these top 10 tips to help you prepare for your upcoming NDIS planning meeting.

1. Start Today

Your first NDIS planning meeting may be a significant moment in your life, and may be just around the corner. It’s time to start thinking about how you want to live your life and what you need in order for you to achieve your goals.

2. Think Big

The NDIS is here to stay. Try to not worry about barriers you might face and think about the exciting moments that are to come! What do you want to achieve in your life? How do you want to live your life? The people who know you well will be able to help you choose what your goals, aspirations and dreams are.

3. Write a list or keep a diary

Try to think about what your day to day is like. What kinds of things do you encounter every day that makes life a little bit harder? Every time something pops into your mind, write it down. You could do this in a diary or take photos. This will help you when you are in your planning meeting.

4. Be Specific

Try to be as specific as you can about what you need and what you want, what your goals are, and how you want to live. Write all of these down and take them along with you to your
first meeting.

5. Read about the NDIS before your meeting

There is a lot of information about the NDIS out there and it can sometimes be a bit confusing. It is important to start getting your head around some of the language that is used.

6. Get your paperwork done early

It is a good idea to start filling in your “My NDIS Journey” folder before you go in for your first planning meeting. You can get in touch with your local Scope contact to organise a folder to be sent to you. It contains important questions about your life and your future.

7. Don’t accept a plan that you are not happy with

You don’t have to accept the first plan. If the plan that was sent to you doesn’t feel right and doesn’t seem to cover reasonable and necessary costs you can discuss this with your planner.

8. Get all your documents ready

Before your first planning meeting, make sure you have all the documentation you need with you. This will help you to explain who you are and what you need. This could include documents like medical and education paperwork.

9. Learn the language

There’s a lot of NDIS language out there and it’s a good idea to start getting your head around terms like funded supports, planners, centre-based service and support plan. Read the NDIS glossary.

10. Take someone with you

Last but not least, remember that you do not have to go through this process alone. Take someone along to your meeting that you know well.  This could be, family, friends, support workers, or advocates. They can help you remember to tell your NDIS planner everything you need to put together your new plan.

If you would like to find out more information on our “My NDIS Journey” or Easy English resources, contact Scope’s CIRC at circ@scopeaust.org.au or 03 9843 2000.