When a child turns 18 it can be a large transition for the parent and the child themselves.

In a legal sense, your child will become an adult once they turn 18. If your child experiences disability, this will impact their NDIS plan.

Here are the things you need to know, and tips for making the transition as seamless as possible.

What happens when your child turns 18 on the NDIS?

Once your child turns 18, if they can, they’ll be expected to manage their own NDIS plan. To do so, though, there are some things you can do to help them prepare.

This will ensure that when the time comes they’ll feel ready to make important decisions about their plan.

The skills they will need to manage their plan include:

• Choosing an NDIS provider


• Setting goals that align with their needs and necessary supports


• Making positive NDIS-related decisions that will impact their health and quality of life


• Budgeting their NDIS plan


• Managing invoices, receipts, and expenses


• Communicating effectively with the NDIS, a Support Coordinator, and their plan manager

Helping your child prepare to manage an NDIS plan

Suddenly taking on an NDIS plan and making critical decisions could be overwhelming for anyone, let alone a young person.

If you help your child prepare in advance, they’ll be in a much better position to manage their plan once they have that authority.

Involving your child in the planning process throughout their teenage years can really make a difference. That could mean bringing in your child during plan meetings, asking their opinion about plan managers, and ensuring they are helping to set goals that will support their future.

Building your child’s confidence when speaking to others, teaching them to budget and plan, and giving them authority to make some decisions will all go a long way to making the changeover process smooth.

Other things to consider when your child turns 18

Outside of the NDIS plan, there are other things you’ll want to consider. If your child is able to, they may wish to look into meaningful employment or further education through TAFE or a university.

Your child may be interested in boosting their independence by learning to drive. (We’ve created a handy guide to help those on the NDIS understand what it takes to learn to drive.)

At this stage, your child will also need their own Medicare card and MyGov account if they don’t already have one. They may also need to transition to an adult healthcare provider, depending on your medical centre.

We’re a call away

Is your child turning 18 soon? We’re happy to help you with the transition to ensure they can make the most out of their plan.

Get in touch with our friendly team on 1300 60 33 89 or at [email protected]