1. Purpose
This policy describes how [Organisation Name] develops, reviews, and updates support plans with participants. It supports NDIS Practice Standard 3.2.
2. Scope
Applies to all participants receiving supports from [Organisation Name] and to all workers responsible for support planning.
3. Principles
- Support plans are participant-led: developed with, not for, the participant
- Plans are written in plain language and accessible formats
- Plans capture goals, supports, risks, and review schedule
- Plans are reviewed at agreed intervals and when circumstances change
4. Plan Development
4.1 Intake and Assessment
- The participant is asked about their goals, preferences, communication needs, support history, and existing risks
- The NDIS plan, behaviour support plan, and any positive behaviour support strategies are reviewed where applicable
- The participant nominates who else should be involved in planning (family, advocate, allied health, prior provider)
4.2 Plan Content
- Goals (short-, medium-, long-term)
- Supports: type, frequency, duration, worker preferences
- Communication preferences
- Cultural and identity considerations
- Risk assessment and dignity-of-risk decisions
- Review schedule and triggers for early review
4.3 Consent and Signing
- The participant (or their nominee) signs the support plan after a documented opportunity to ask questions and make changes
- The participant receives a copy in their preferred format
5. Plan Review
- Scheduled reviews occur at least every 12 months or sooner if specified
- Early review is triggered by: significant change in participant circumstances, new risks, incidents, request from the participant, or NDIS plan change
- Review outcomes are documented and shared with the participant
6. Records
Support plans, reviews, consent records, and incident-triggered updates are retained for 7 years after services end.
7. Related Policies
- Person-Centred Supports Policy
- Service Agreements Policy
- Risk Management Policy
- Information Management Policy
8. Review
Reviewed annually or when NDIS planning rules change.
This template is provided by GuardRail as general guidance only. Organisations should customise it and have it reviewed by a legal professional before adoption.