Introduction

When applying for the NDIS—or seeking a plan review—evidence is everything. And one of the most effective tools in your evidence kit is a well-written supporting letter.

But here’s the problem: many letters fail to explain why support is “reasonable and necessary”, or how a person’s disability actually impacts daily life.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through:

• What a strong supporting letter should include
• Who can write one
• Real examples of effective wording
• How Assist Providers can help strengthen your documentation

📄 What Is a Supporting Letter?

A supporting letter is a document written by someone who knows your situation—like a therapist, doctor, support worker, or carer. It helps the NDIS understand:

• Your functional capacity
• How your disability affects your daily life
• Why a specific support is needed
• How it will help you pursue your goals

🧠 Who Can Write a Supporting Letter?

✅ Allied health professionals (OT, speech, psychologist, physio)

✅ Medical specialists or GPs

✅ Support coordinators or plan managers

✅ Family members or carers (in some cases)

Tip: Letters from registered or treating professionals carry the most weight—especially when linked to assessments or reports.

✅ What Makes a Strong Supporting Letter?

To be effective, a supporting letter should:

1. Clearly explain the person’s diagnosis and disability
   • Use medical or functional terminology (but keep it readable)
2. Describe how the disability affects daily life
   • Focus on daily living, mobility, communication, social skills, emotional regulation, etc.
3. Explain why the support is “reasonable and necessary”
   • Use NDIS terminology (e.g. "enables increased social and community participation")
4. Link the support to a specific NDIS goal
   • NDIS plans are goal-driven—this link is essential
5. Include professional credentials and contact details
   • Name, title, provider number, and signature

📝 Sample Supporting Letter Wording (Excerpt)

“Due to James’ sensory sensitivities and social anxiety associated with his Autism Spectrum Disorder, he struggles to engage in community settings. Weekly support worker hours will allow gradual exposure and increase his participation in social activities—aligned with his goal of developing confidence and independence in the community.”

— Occupational Therapist

“Melissa requires ongoing support with executive functioning tasks, including scheduling, budgeting, and travel training. Without this support, she becomes isolated and unable to complete basic tasks of daily living. NDIS funding for psychosocial recovery coaching is therefore recommended.”

— Psychologist

🧩 Link It to NDIS Criteria

The NDIS uses the term “reasonable and necessary”, so your letter should answer:

• Is this support directly related to the disability?
• Will it help the participant pursue their goals?
• Is it value for money?
• Can it reduce reliance on other systems (e.g. health or family)?

Use clear, functional language that shows the real-world impact.

🛑 Common Mistakes in Supporting Letters

🚫 Too brief or vague (“She needs support for everyday tasks”)

🚫 No mention of disability or functional impact

🚫 Doesn’t link the support to a goal

🚫 Doesn’t explain what would happen without the support

🚫 Missing professional credentials or signature

🧰 How Assist Providers Can Help

✅ Templates for allied health supporting letters

✅ Review and feedback on your draft letters

✅ Progress report checklists

✅ Coaching for therapists and families on how to frame supports

✅ Assistance with evidence preparation for plan reviews or AAT appeals

Whether you're applying for the first time or requesting a review, we help you present a compelling case the NDIA can understand.

🏁 Final Thoughts

A strong supporting letter can make the difference between a denied request and life-changing support.

It’s not about using fancy words—it’s about clearly showing your need in a way that matches the NDIS language.

When in doubt, link it to function, goals, and quality of life. Then back it up with facts.

Need help getting started? Assist Providers can help you write, review, and refine the letters that matter most.