NDIS Participant Checklist: From Approval to First Session

What to do in the first 7 days after plan approval

Once your NDIS plan is approved, your first week is about getting organised and ready for your first session. Start by reading your plan end-to-end and writing down what support you have been approved for, the start date, and any conditions (for example, review dates or specific provider requirements). If anything is unclear, contact your NDIS Planner or your plan manager for confirmation before you book anything.

Next, confirm how your plan payments will work. If you’re using plan management, set up or check your plan manager arrangements right away (many people use MyMoney NDIS at www.planmanager.net.au). Make sure you understand how providers will submit invoices, whether you need to pay upfront, and what documents you might need to approve claims.

Then, begin provider booking and comparison. Create a shortlist of providers for each support type and ask questions about availability, costs, who will support you, and how they report progress. It can help to compare multiple options using My Care Finders to support your decision-making and match your needs with the right provider. When you find a suitable provider, request a simple schedule for the first few weeks so you know exactly when your supports start.

Key takeaway: In the first 7 days, confirm dates and funding rules, then book your first sessions early so you don’t lose momentum.

Finally, prepare for your first session. Gather relevant reports, support notes, and any goals you want to focus on. If your plan includes therapies (such as support coordination, occupational therapy, or allied health), ask the provider how they’ll help you build your goals and measure progress. Keep a quick checklist of calls, emails, booked sessions, and any approvals—this makes it easier if you need to adjust supports later.