Understanding “Reasonable and Necessary” – What It Really Means in the NDIS!
- Shaun Chaudhry
- Nov 7
- 2 min read
By Proactive Plan Managers – November 2025
One of the most common questions participants ask is:
“Why did the NDIA approve one support but not another?”
The answer often comes down to the phrase “reasonable and necessary.” Let’s break down what it actually means — and how you can use this knowledge to strengthen your plan and future reviews.
1. The Core Idea
Under the NDIS Act, supports must be both reasonable and necessary to be funded. This means the NDIA looks at whether a support:
Directly helps you achieve the goals in your plan
Is value for money
Is safe, effective, and evidence-based
Takes into account what’s appropriate for your age and circumstances
Is not something another service (like health or education) should provide
Example: f you need occupational therapy to improve your ability to cook or clean independently — that’s likely “reasonable and necessary.”But funding for general house cleaning may not be, unless it’s clearly linked to your disability support needs.
2. Linking Supports to Goals
A support is far more likely to be approved if it connects clearly to your goals. Tip: When writing or reviewing your plan, use wording that links your supports to independence, participation, and skill development.
For example:
✅ “To increase my independence in daily living, I will build skills in meal preparation and home safety.”
❌ “I want someone to do my cooking for me.”
Your plan manager or support coordinator can help you phrase goals strategically.
3. Evidence Matters
The NDIA looks for clear evidence when deciding if something is reasonable and necessary:
Professional reports or recommendations from therapists
Progress notes showing how a support has helped
Demonstrated outcomes or measurable improvements
Pro Tip: Keep simple records of progress — even photos, notes, or feedback from providers help show your growth and justify continued funding.
4. Using This Knowledge in Plan Reviews
When preparing for your next plan review:
Revisit your goals — have they changed or progressed?
Gather reports that show outcomes achieved with your current supports.
Identify any new needs or gaps.
Use the phrase “reasonable and necessary” in your discussion to show alignment with NDIS principles.
5. How Proactive Plan Managers Help
We don’t just process invoices — we help you understand how to use your plan within NDIS rules.
We ensure your supports align with your goals.
We help you identify supports that meet “reasonable and necessary” criteria.
We provide clarity and transparency so you feel confident using your plan.
Takeaway: Understanding the “reasonable and necessary” test is one of the most empowering things you can do as an NDIS participant. It helps you plan better, prepare stronger reviews, and make informed choices about your supports.
At Proactive Plan Managers, we’re here to make that process clear and simple — so your funding works smarter for you.
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