Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming especially when life changes unexpectedly. Many participants and families don’t realise that if their situation changes significantly, they may not need to wait until their next scheduled plan review. Instead, they may be able to request a Change of Circumstances (CoC). But what exactly is a Change of Circumstances? Why does it matter? And when should you request one? This guide explains everything you need to know.
What is a CoC in NDIS?
A Change of Circumstances (CoC) is when NDIS participant experiences a significant change in their life, disability-related needs, living arrangements, health, or support requirements that means their current NDIS plan no longer meets their needs. When this happens, participants can ask the NDIA to review their current supports before their plan ends. In simple terms:
Your life changes → your support needs change → your current NDIS plan may need to change too.
Why is a CoC important?
An NDIS plan is created based on your needs at a specific point in time. But life changes. Over time, participants may experience:
- increased support needs
- reduced family support
- worsening health conditions
- new diagnoses
- housing changes
- therapy recommendations
- increased behavioural challenges
If your current plan no longer reflects your reality, you may:
- miss out on needed supports
- experience delays in care
- feel overwhelmed
- risk breakdown of informal supports
A Change of Circumstances helps ensure your funding remains aligned with your actual needs.
When should NDIS participant request a CoC?
A participant should consider a Change of Circumstances when there has been a significant and ongoing change, such as:
1. Increased disability support needs
For example:
- needing more personal care
- requiring increased supervision
- increased behavioural support
- more therapy required
2. Reduced informal supports
This may happen when:
- parents or carers can no longer provide support
- a family member becomes unwell
- a caregiver experiences burnout
- family circumstances change
This is a very common reason for CoC requests.
3. Change in living situation
Examples:
- moving house
- transitioning to supported accommodation
- family breakdown
- hospital discharge
- moving into SIL or SDA
4. Significant health or mental health changes
For example:
- worsening medical condition
- new diagnosis
- mental health decline
- increased risk or crisis
5. Safety or risk concerns
A Change of Circumstances may be urgent if:
- there is risk of harm
- risk of carer breakdown
- risk of hospitalisation
- risk of service failure
How does a participant request a CoC?
A Change of Circumstances (CoC) is formally requested by the NDIS participant (or their nominee/guardian). However, in practice, many participants are supported through this process by their Support Coordinator, Psychosocial Recovery Coach, Local Area Coordinator (LAC), or allied health professionals.
The process usually involves the following steps:
Step 1: Identify what has changed
The participant (with support if needed) should clearly explain:
- what has changed
- when the change occurred
- how the change impacts daily life, independence, safety, or participation
Be specific.
Example:
“Ethan now requires increased daily supervision and support due to worsening emotional regulation and reduced family capacity.”
Step 2: Explain why current supports no longer meet needs
This is one of the most important parts of the application.
The participant needs to demonstrate that:
- current funding is no longer sufficient
- existing supports do not meet current needs
- unmet needs are impacting safety, wellbeing, or participation
This helps NDIA understand why a plan adjustment may be necessary.
Step 3: Identify what additional supports are needed
Clearly outline what additional supports are being requested.
Examples may include:
- increased Core supports
- additional therapy funding
- Support Coordination
- Assistive Technology
- home modifications
- respite or short-term accommodation
The request should directly relate to the participant’s changed needs.
Step 4: Attach supporting evidence
The NDIA relies heavily on evidence when assessing a Change of Circumstances request.
Useful supporting documents may include:
- Occupational Therapy Functional Capacity Assessment (FCA)
- Speech Pathology reports
- Psychology reports
- Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) reports
- GP or specialist letters
- school reports
- support worker reports
- hospital or discharge summaries (if relevant)
Strong evidence significantly improves the likelihood of approval.
Who can help with a CoC?
Participants do not need to manage the process alone.
People who can support the process include:
- Support Coordinators
- Psychosocial Recovery Coaches
- Local Area Coordinators (LACs)
- therapists
- allied health professionals
- advocates
A Support Coordinator often plays a key role by helping identify the need for a CoC, gathering evidence, preparing documentation, and supporting submission to the NDIA.
Common mistakes to avoid
❌ Waiting too long to report significant changes
❌ Submitting a request without supporting evidence
❌ Being too vague about the impact of the change
❌ Not explaining functional impact on daily life
❌ Forgetting to explain risks if funding is not increased
Remember: the NDIA requires evidence, not just opinions.
In conclusion, a Change of Circumstances is not simply about asking for “more funding.” It is about ensuring an NDIS plan reflects a participant’s current needs and circumstances. If life changes, support needs may change too. Acting early can help prevent delays, stress, unmet needs, and breakdown of informal supports. If you believe your current NDIS plan no longer meets your needs, speak with your Support Coordinator or relevant professional to explore whether a Change of Circumstances is the right next step.
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