What is a Plan Variation?

Plan variations used to be know as a ‘light touch’ plan review, an extension, rollover or continuation. These are now all considered Plan Variations.

Participants (or nominees) can request a variation at any time. Plans may be varied without a full reassessment in some situations like:

• the NDIS responding to a crisis situation;
• the participant’s need for assistive technology or home modifications approved mid-plan;
• Changing the way the plan is managed, e.g. from Self Managed to Plan Managed.

If the plan is varied, a new plan will be issued within 7 days.

The NDIS gives the following case study as an example of Plan Variation:

James is 5 years old and has cerebral palsy. He needs an ankle foot orthotic (AFO) to improve his walking pattern and stability.

He has had a growth spurt and his current AFO is too small and needs to be changed.

James’ mum is his child representative. She asks their Early Childhood Partner to help them make this change to James’s plan.

It is clear to the planner that James still requires the use of an AFO. This was considered reasonable and necessary in his current plan.

James’ planner varies his plan and approves funding for a new AFO.

James doesn’t need any other changes to his plan and no dates change with the variation.