NDIS Support Requests: From Need to Approved Help

What counts as a support request (and when to use it)

A support request is a formal way to ask the NDIS to fund help that relates to your reasonable and necessary needs. It’s used when you need support for a goal you have in your plan, such as building daily living skills, improving health and wellbeing, getting to appointments, or developing independence. A support request can cover both services (the actual support) and capacity building (help to learn and practise skills).

Examples of things that usually count as a support request include: requesting a specific support type (like assistance with personal care), asking for a particular service frequency (for example, twice a week), and seeking funding for equipment or therapies if they are linked to your goals. You can also request changes, such as increasing hours, changing times, or updating supports if your needs have changed. If you’re unsure whether something should be requested, compare options and providers with My Care Finders, which can help you understand what different providers offer and how that may fit your plan.

When you submit a request, try to clearly explain what you need, why you need it, and how it helps you achieve your goals. If you use plan management, it may also help to consider how the provider will be paid and whether costs align with what you expect under your plan manager (for example, through MyMoney NDIS at www.planmanager.net.au).

Key takeaway: Use a support request when you need a change to your funded support—especially if it impacts a goal, your day-to-day functioning, or your safety.

Not every question or preference is a support request. For example, “I’d prefer a different worker” or “can the support start 15 minutes later?” may be handled through your provider agreement or scheduling process, unless it affects your ability to meet goals or manage risks. If you’re unsure, start by asking your provider what they can change immediately, then use a support request if you need funding, a new support type, or a significant change.