Your NDIS rights
Last reviewed: April 2026
These are enforceable rights under the NDIS framework — not suggestions, not aspirational principles. Knowing them changes the conversations you have with planners, providers, and the NDIA itself.
1 Right to internal review of any NDIA decision
Right to internal review of any NDIA decision
If the NDIA makes a decision about your plan that you disagree with — including a plan reduction or an eligibility decision — you have the right to ask them to review it. You have three months from the decision to request this.
How to exercise this right
- → Request an internal review in writing or by phone within 3 months of receiving the decision.
- → You don't need to give a reason, but providing one — and any supporting evidence — strengthens your case.
- → The review is conducted by a different NDIA officer who was not involved in the original decision.
2 Right to external review via the Administrative Appeals Tribunal
Right to external review via the Administrative Appeals Tribunal
If you go through the internal review process and still disagree with the outcome, you can take your case to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT). The AAT is independent of the NDIA.
How to exercise this right
- → Apply to the AAT within 28 days of receiving your internal review outcome.
- → Free legal help is available through disability advocacy organisations in your state.
- → You can represent yourself, or bring a support person, advocate, or lawyer.
3 Right to free, independent advocacy
Right to free, independent advocacy
Government-funded, independent disability advocates are available in every state and territory. They're free, confidential, and on your side — they don't work for the NDIA.
How to exercise this right
- → Find your local advocacy service through the Disability Advocacy Network Australia (DANA) at dana.org.au.
- → You can ask an advocate to support you in planning meetings, help you understand your rights, or assist with a review.
- → Advocates are free regardless of your income or plan size.
4 Right to bring a support person to planning meetings
Right to bring a support person to planning meetings
You can bring anyone you trust to planning meetings — a family member, friend, support coordinator, or independent advocate. You don't need to go into these conversations alone.
How to exercise this right
- → Tell your planner in advance that you'll be bringing a support person.
- → Your support person can speak on your behalf if you prefer, or just be present.
- → Advocates are especially useful if you expect the meeting to cover significant plan changes.
5 Right to request a plan reassessment
Right to request a plan reassessment
You don't have to wait for the NDIA to schedule your next review. If your circumstances or support needs have changed, you can ask for a reassessment at any time.
How to exercise this right
- → Contact the NDIA directly (1800 800 110) or through your myNDIS portal.
- → Explain why your situation has changed and what you need reviewed.
- → Provide supporting evidence from treating professionals where possible.
6 Right to complain to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
Right to complain to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
If you're unhappy with the behaviour of an NDIS provider, planner, or the NDIA itself, you can make a formal complaint. The Commission is independent and takes complaints seriously.
How to exercise this right
- → Call the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544 (free call) or submit online at ndiscommission.gov.au.
- → You can complain about a provider's quality of service, a planner's conduct, or how your plan was managed.
- → You can ask for a confidential complaint process if needed.
7 Right to access your NDIS records
Right to access your NDIS records
You have the right to see the documents the NDIA holds about you, including assessments, internal notes, and planning documents. This is valuable when preparing for a review.
How to exercise this right
- → Submit a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the NDIA at foi@ndis.gov.au.
- → There is no charge for a basic personal records request.
- → The NDIA has 30 days to respond. You can request specific documents or a full record.
8 Right to free interpreter services
Right to free interpreter services
If English isn't your first language or you use a different communication method, you're entitled to a free interpreter for any NDIA interaction — including planning meetings, phone calls, and reviews.
How to exercise this right
- → Ask the NDIA in advance to arrange an interpreter for your meeting.
- → The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) is available 24/7 on 131 450.
- → You can also request an Auslan interpreter if you use sign language.
9 NDIS Participant Service Charter
NDIS Participant Service Charter
The NDIA has a published Service Charter that sets out what you can expect from them — including timely responses, respectful treatment, and clear explanations of decisions. If they fall short, you can point to the Charter.
How to exercise this right
- → Read the Participant Service Charter at ndis.gov.au/about-us/policies/service-charter.
- → If the NDIA doesn't meet the standards in the Charter, you can raise this in a complaint or internal review.
- → The Charter is a practical tool — keep a copy and refer to it in correspondence.
10 Right to cultural safety
Right to cultural safety
First Nations participants, and anyone from a culturally and linguistically diverse background, have the right to culturally appropriate and respectful services. The NDIA has specific commitments to First Nations communities.
How to exercise this right
- → Ask your planner about the NDIA's First Nations or CALD-specific support pathways.
- → You can request to work with a planner from a culturally appropriate background.
- → Seek support from a culturally appropriate advocacy service — many states have dedicated services.
This page is for general information only and is not legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, contact a free NDIS advocate through DANA or legal aid in your state.
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