NDIS progress note examples and what to include

The short answer

A strong NDIS progress note is dated, factual, and linked to a plan goal, and it records the participant's response. The examples below show the difference between a vague note and a clear one, followed by a quick checklist you can use on every shift.

Sources
NDIS Practice Standards
NDIS Code of Conduct

A worked example

Vague: took client shopping, all fine. Clearer: supported Sam to shop at the local supermarket from 10am to 11am, working on the goal of independent budgeting. Sam wrote the list, chose items and paid at the counter with prompting for the PIN. Sam appeared calm and said he felt confident. No concerns noted. The second note shows the goal, the support given and the response.

What each example shows

The clearer note is dated by activity, links to a plan goal, separates fact from opinion, and records the participant's response in their own words. It gives the next worker and the wider team something to build on. It also shows the level of prompting used, which helps track progress toward independence over time.

Quick checklist

Before you submit a note, check that it has the date, time and duration, the support delivered, the goal it relates to, the participant's response, any changes or incidents, and any follow up. Confirm it is factual, respectful and readable. Then save it in line with your provider's documentation policy.

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