How to structure an NDIS speech pathology report

Full participant name, NDIS number, date of birth, and primary diagnosis. Speech pathologist name, qualifications, Speech Pathology Australia membership number, clinic name, and NDIS provider number. Report date and reporting period.

A concise summary of the participant's disability, communication history, living situation, and support network. State clearly why speech pathology is involved: progress report, communication assessment, AAC assessment, or dysphagia management.

Number of sessions, total hours, session format (clinic, home, school, telehealth), and the support category billed. List the primary speech pathology focus areas: expressive language, AAC implementation, social communication, dysphagia management, carer training, or other.

Describe the participant's current communication profile across the relevant areas: expressive language (modality, vocabulary range, sentence complexity), receptive language (complexity of instructions followed), speech intelligibility (to familiar and unfamiliar listeners), social communication and pragmatics, and AAC system use where applicable. For dysphagia, describe swallowing function, current IDDSI texture levels, and any clinical signs noted. Where standardised tools were administered (CELF-5, PLS-5, GFTA-3, VMPAC, SSI-4), include the assessment name, date, scores, and a brief clinical interpretation.

Describe communication function in real-world contexts, not just test scores. NDIA planners need to understand what the participant can and cannot communicate day to day.

For each funded NDIS goal: state the goal exactly as it appears in the plan, assign a progress status, and write an objective progress summary using measurable functional language. List the specific speech pathology interventions and strategies delivered. Include any carer or educator training provided. Write a block for every goal in the plan, including those not yet commenced.

Where applicable: name the recommended AAC system or device (make, model), provide the ATSNAVI code, specify the access method (direct selection, eye gaze, scanning), and provide the clinical justification linked to the participant's communication needs. Include evidence of what was trialled, why lower-cost alternatives are unsuitable, an estimated cost, a supplier quote, and a training and implementation plan.

For high-cost AAC devices, the NDIA requires a formal communication needs assessment and documented trial evidence.

Factors that limited goal achievement during the period. Be factual and non-judgemental. Include health episodes, service disruptions, changes in living situation, or environmental factors affecting communication opportunities.

Specific session frequency and total hours per year, the NDIS support category and line item, and suggested goals for the next plan in NDIS goal language. Include any AT or AAC recommendations with specifications. Note any additional referrals or supports recommended.

Signed declaration with your full name, credentials, Speech Pathology Australia membership number, and the date. Sign and date every page.

If swallowing is within scope, document the current IDDSI (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative) texture and fluid levels. Describe the clinical signs observed during mealtime assessment: coughing, wet voice quality, prolonged oral transit, residue. Note the assessment setting and who was present. If instrumental assessment (VFSS or FEES) was conducted or is recommended, state the date, facility, and findings. Mealtime management plans should specify textures, positioning, supervision level, and carer training provided.

IDDSI levels are the standard in Australia. Use the numbered levels (0 through 7) and descriptors, not older terminology like 'puree' or 'soft'.