Setting the right NDIS goals that are tailored for you is an essential part of the NDIS. Setting clear goals, means that you are more likely to get the funding for supports to meet those goals. In this article we break down NDIS goals and give you some tips on how to set the right goals for you.

What are NDIS Goals Anyway?

Like other goals that you might set yourself in life, NDIS goals define what you want to achieve and help guide you along the way.

They have a more formal purpose as well though, which is to give the NDIA information about what is it important to you and the support that you need. Each of your goals should include information about the support that you need to meet that goal.

NDIS goals can be physical, social or independence based. They can also be short term goals (that you want to achieve in the next 12 months) or medium to long term (what you want to achieve in the next two to three years).

Examples of NDIS Goals

Your NDIS goals will be as individual as you are. Here are some examples of short-term NDIS goals:

Physical NDIS Goal: I want to improve my strength and co-ordination to walk independently so that I can keep up with my peers.

Social NDIS Goal: I want to increase my confidence to try new things so that I meet new people and make more friends my own age.

Independence NDIS Goal: I want to be more independent in my eating and have better hand control when I use cutlery.

What is the SMART Framework?

The SMART framework is a method that can help you to set clear, measurable and meaningful goals. A SMART goal has five characteristics:

1. Specific: Clearly define your goal and focus on your desired outcome
2. Measurable: Think about how you will track your progress so you can demonstrate where you started and how you are improving
3. Achievable: Set goals that are realistic and achievable for you
4. Relevant: Align your goals with your interests, needs and aspirations
5. Time-bound: Set a specific timeframe for achieving your goal.

Example of a SMART Goal

By June next year, I will be living independently by developing essential life skills, finding a house share with others my own age and accessing the necessary support services.

6 Quick Tips for Setting Your NDIS Goals

1. Be realistic and set goals that are achievable, this will help to keep you motivated
2. Give yourself a timeframe to achieve each goal
3. Set goals that align with your passions and interests
4. Break goals into smaller steps so that they don’t seem overwhelming and take them one step at a time, until they’re achieved!
5. Reach out to friends, family or support workers to support you to reach your goals and to help keep you accountable
6. Life can throw us curveballs so be flexible and open to adjust your goals if you need to as circumstances change.

We’re here to help

Our team of Brisbane based Support Coordinators and Plan Managers are here to help. If you have any questions or need help in setting your NDIS goals get in touch with our friendly team today.

You can get in touch via our contact form, email us at enquiries@infocusdisability.org.au or call us on 1800 928 437.