What to Do If the NDIS Says “No” — A Participant‑Centred Guide

Receiving news that the NDIA has declined your access request, funding, or plan review can be deeply upsetting. It can feel like your needs are invisible, but it doesn’t mean hope is lost. As both an NDIS participant and someone experienced in support coordination and inclusive consulting, I’m here to guide you—step by step.

1. Pause & Reflect (You’re Validated)

First, take a moment. You’re allowed to feel disappointed, frustrated, or let down. These feelings are real and valid. A denial doesn’t define you—it’s simply a formal outcome you now have the opportunity to challenge.

2. Understand the Decision & Timeframes

Identify the decision type

• Access request denial (you’re not eligible)

• Plan decision denial (NDIA decided not to fund something)

• Reassessment decision (they’re questioning your need or eligibility)

Note important timeframes

• Internal Review: Must be requested within 3 months of receiving the written decision (the day after is day 0)  .

• NDIA internal review completion goal: within 60 days of the request  .

• External Review (AAT): You have 28 days from receiving the internal review outcome to lodge your appeal  .

Missing these deadlines could complicate or block your appeal process. Set reminders immediately upon receiving the decision.

3. Start with an Internal Review

An internal review is your first formal right. You do this by:

1. Submitting a written request to NDIA or speaking to your planner/LAC—clarify which decision you want reviewed  .

2. Updating evidence—seek medical letters, therapy reports, referee statements.

3. Crafting a clear, respectful summary of why you disagree and referencing key documents or personal stories that highlight your support needs.

This review is reassessed by a different NDIA staff member. Remain open to dialogue if they request further information  .

4. Explore Advocacy & Support Options

You are not alone:

a) Self‑advocacy + NDIS Appeals Program

• NDIS-funded advocates (NDAP) can help you prepare, represent you in conferences, and liaise with Legal Aid for tribunal processes  .

• Referrals should happen within 5 days of your request .

b) Independent advocacy

• Disability Advocacy Services (NDAP-funded) can support you—particularly helpful when disputes become complex .

c) Legal support for tribunal

• When heading to the AAT, Legal Aid and NDIS Appeals legal services can offer counsel  .

• You cannot use NDIS funding to pay for this—but it’s funded separately by the Appeals Program  .

5. Lodging an External Review (AAT)

If the internal review doesn’t get the result you need:

1. Apply to the AAT within 28 days.

2. Prepare a case including all supporting evidence, professional reports, and your own statements.

3. Attend mediation, conferences, or hearings—with advocate or legal counsel by your side (NDIS funding won’t cover representation).

4. Decision outcomes: Tribunal may confirm, vary, or set aside the NDIA decision. Positive outcomes must be implemented in your plan within 28 days  .

6. Beyond Appeals: Practical Supports & Self‑support

• Support Coordinators: Can help you navigate internal reviews but cannot act as your formal advocate  .

• Peer support: Talking with other participants can bring insight and reduce stress.

• Stay informed: Attend submission sessions and keep track of ongoing reforms (e.g. new planning frameworks, listing of allowable supports)—to know what is and isn’t covered  .

• Self-kindness: Appeals can be mentally taxing. Lean on familiar supports, counsellors, or therapists who understand disability and your personal validation.

7. The Changing NDIS Landscape

One major shift: since 3 October 2024, NDIS funding is limited to listed supports unless substitution rules apply  .

Always review supports lists and substitution options when anticipating denials or planning appeals.

8. Your Rights & Your Voice

• You have the right to reasons for decisions and to ask for explanations at any time  .

• You can submit new evidence at any point before a decision is finalised .

• You also have the option to provide feedback or lodge complaints about the NDIA’s processes  .

A Practical Checklist for You

Step

1. Read and timestamp your decision letter- Start the 3 month clock.

2. Gather recent assessments and reports — Update evidence.

3. Draft internal review submission - State clearly why decision is unjust.

4. Seek advocacy support - NDIS Appeals Program or local NDAP.

5. Submit internal review - Keep proof of submission.

6. Apply to AAT if needed - Within 28 days after decision.

7. Prepare for hearing - Collaborate with advocates/legal aid.

8. Follow up implementation - Ensure changes are made within 28 days after tribunal.

Final Thought

Navigating a “no” from the NDIA can feel overwhelming—but remember, this isn’t your final word. You have rights. You have support. You have the power to speak up, appeal, and shift outcomes. Focus on your lived expertise, honour your strengths, connect with genuine allies, and navigate the system with clarity.

Your voice belongs—let it lead the way.

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Reach out for help:

• NDIA Appeals: NDIS Appeals Program (via NDAP)

• Legal support: Legal Aid (e.g. email ndis@legalaid.wa.gov.au)     

• Independent advocacy: Check NDAP in your state