your guide to ndis support planning this holiday season

The holiday season can bring joy, connection and a welcome break in routine. For many NDIS participants, it can also bring changes to support schedules, limited availability of support workers and the need for extra planning around accessibility and travel. A strong NDIS support plan helps you stay prepared, organised and supported during this time. This guide walks you through what to consider, how to stay in control and where you can access additional help if you need it. 

Preparing Your NDIS Support Plan for the Holiday Period 

Planning early is essential because December and January often bring reduced service hours and higher demand for supports. When you understand what to expect, you can make decisions that protect your wellbeing and ensure you continue receiving the right disability support services. 

 Review your current supports 

Before the holiday period begins, take some time to review the supports you currently receive. 

Consider: 
• Which supports will you still need during the holidays 
• Whether your usual support worker will be away 
• Any changes in routine that might require extra help 
• How your budget is tracking for the remainder of your plan 

If any adjustments are needed, reach out to providers early so they have time to accommodate your requests. 

Confirm availability with your support workers 

Availability is often the biggest challenge during the holiday season. Your support worker may take leave or your provider may operate with reduced staffing. Asking early helps avoid gaps in essential care. If you discover your support worker is not available, consider requesting a short-term alternative or exploring a backup option through your provider. 

Connect with your NDIS plan support coordinator 

If you work with an NDIS plan support coordinator, this is the ideal time to check in. They can help you identify where you might need extra assistance, review your goals for the next few months and confirm the best way to manage upcoming changes. A support coordinator can also help you contact providers, book services and prepare documentation if anything needs updating. 

Organising NDIS Holiday Support 

NDIS holiday support often involves additional considerations such as changes to your routine, travel plans or family commitments. By understanding your options, you can make confident decisions that fit your situation. 

Planning for routine changes 

Even small changes to daily routines can create challenges during the holiday season.

To stay supported: 
• Update your weekly schedule 
• Let your provider know about any expected changes 
• Identify tasks where you may need a holiday support worker 
• Check if your plan includes capacity for increased hours 

This proactive approach helps you avoid stress and ensures continuity of care. 

Managing community access during holidays 

Community and social activities often increase during the holiday season. When planning your outings, consider accessibility, staffing availability, and transport needs. Booking support workers earlier than usual can help you secure the times you prefer, especially for local Christmas events or social gatherings. 

 Ensuring accessibility while travelling 

If you are planning a short break, accessibility becomes an important focus. Search for accessible holiday accommodation through reputable platforms and always check details such as step access, bathroom layout and mobility options. Understanding accessibility requirements upfront means your time away will be more comfortable and enjoyable. 

Working With Disability Support Services Over the Holidays 

Most disability support services, like your provider and support coordinator, still operate during the holidays, though many run reduced hours or close on public holidays. The more informed you are, the better you can prepare. 

What should you expect from your service providers 

Service providers usually communicate their holiday hours in early December, however some participants feel unsure about what to ask. Helpful questions include whether public holiday rates apply, how after-hours services are managed and what to do if you need urgent support. This information reduces uncertainty and allows you to adjust your NDIS support plan if needed. 

When to consider additional support 

During the holiday season, you might experience increased sensory load, busier routines, or extra family responsibilities. If this sounds familiar, arranging additional support from a disability support worker can help. Even short-term or temporary assistance can make the holidays more manageable and help you stay independent. 

 Frequently Asked Holiday Season Questions 

Can you change or increase supports over the holidays ?

Yes, but it depends on your provider’s availability and your current plan. If you need support to make adjustments, your NDIS plan support coordinator can help you understand your options and arrange updates.  

What happens if your support worker is unavailable?

You can request an alternative worker through your provider or adjust your schedule to fit available times. Planning early gives you a higher chance of securing suitable replacement supports. 

What if you need help organising everything? 

If you find the planning process overwhelming, connecting with professional support services can remove the pressure. Coordinators and service providers are experienced in navigating holiday complexities and can offer tailored guidance. 

Getting Extra Help When You Need It 

If you are looking for additional guidance, many providers offer dedicated support to help you prepare for the holiday season. Whether you need help reviewing your NDIS support plan, booking services or ensuring accessibility during travel, expert assistance gives you peace of mind. 

Start Planning Your Holiday Supports with MySolas 

With the right planning, the holiday season can be a time of connection, rest and confidence in the supports available to you. By reviewing your supports early, confirming worker availability, considering accessibility needs and engaging your NDIS plan support coordinator, you stay in control while enjoying a smooth and supported holiday break. 

MySolas makes this easier. Using the free MySolas platform, you can search for NDIS providers, find disability support workers that match your preferences, and access tailored support options through MySolas Match. Whether you’re planning ahead for the holidays or reviewing your supports for the year ahead, MySolas helps you find the right NDIS services with clarity and confidence. 

Start planning your holiday supports today with MySolas. It’s completely free for NDIS participants and families.