Disagree with an NDIS decision? What to do, step by step

Updated September 2026 · 6 min read

If you get an NDIA decision that doesn't feel right, whether it's about access, a plan, or a change you asked for, you can ask for it to be looked at again. There are two stages: an internal review by the NDIA first, then, if you still disagree, an external review by an independent tribunal. Free help is available at both stages.

Step 1: Internal review, by the NDIA

Someone at the NDIA who didn't make the original decision looks at it again, and checks whether it was right under the law. They can keep the decision, change it, or make a new one. The NDIA aims to finish within 60 days of getting your request.

What to include:

• Which decision you're asking about. The decision letter itself is the easiest way to show this.
• Why you disagree, in your own words. Be specific: what's missing, and how it affects daily life.
• Any new evidence, if you have it. It isn't required, but it can help, especially if something has changed.

The NDIS explains the ways to ask on its page, How to request a review of a decision.

Source: NDIS, Guide to decision reviews

Step 2: External review, at the Administrative Review Tribunal

If the internal review doesn't change the outcome, you can ask the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) to review it. The ART is independent of the NDIA. You have to do the internal review first.

• You apply to the ART with its online NDIS form.
• If the NDIA hasn't finished your internal review within 90 days of your request, you can apply to the ART anyway.
• You can call the ART on 1300 366 700 for information and help.

Sources: Administrative Review Tribunal, National Disability Insurance Scheme and NDIS, Guide to decision reviews

Free help, at no cost to you

You don't have to do this alone, and you don't have to pay for help. None of this comes out of your plan funding.

For a tribunal review: the NDIS Appeals Program

The NDIS Appeals Program is a free, government-funded program for people taking an NDIA decision to the ART. It gives you:

• a skilled disability advocate who can be your support person through the tribunal process, and
• in some cases, free legal representation, for example where you're experiencing disadvantage and would really benefit from a lawyer.

How to get it: contact a disability advocacy organisation near you (see below), or call the ART on 1300 366 700 and ask about NDIS Appeals support. The ART can also help arrange a free appointment with a Legal Aid lawyer in your state for advice.

Sources: Australian Government, NDIS Appeals Program and Administrative Review Tribunal, Legal support for NDIS reviews

At any stage: independent disability advocates

The National Disability Advocacy Program funds independent disability advocacy organisations in every state and territory. An advocate works for you, not the NDIA, and can help you prepare an internal review request, gather evidence, or come to meetings with you. It's free.

How to find one:

• Search the Disability Advocacy Finder on Ask Izzy for advocates near you.
• Or call the Disability Advocacy Support Helpline on 1800 643 787 for phone-based help, wherever you live.

Sources: Australian Government, National Disability Advocacy Program and Disability Advocacy Support Helpline

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PaperCalm is an independent tool. It isn't affiliated with the NDIS or the NDIA, and this isn't legal, medical, or financial advice.