Setting Realistic NDIS Goals for Young Adults

10 Practical Goals Young People Can Actually Achieve

Setting NDIS goals for independence can feel overwhelming. This is especially true for young people who’ve experienced trauma. Those with disrupted care or systems that moved too fast also feel it strongly.

The most effective goals are clear, practical, and meaningful.
They build skills and confidence.

Below are 10 NDIS goal ideas for independence, drawn from two focus areas we often use in practice:

• Wealth Lab (money, life admin, future planning)
• Connection Lab (relationships, communication, community)

Each goal is written in simple language. This makes it easy to understand and use in plans or reviews.

Wealth Lab: Independence with Money & Life Skills

1. Manage weekly spending independently
Build confidence handling everyday expenses.

2. Create and follow a simple budget
Learn where money goes each week.

3. Save towards a personal goal
Practice delayed gratification and planning.

4. Pay bills with guided support
Reduce stress around adult responsibilities.

5. Prepare for future employment pathways
Explore work interests and practical steps.

Connection Lab: Independence with Relationships & Community

6. Build healthy friendships and boundaries
Learn what safe connection feels like.

7. Communicate needs clearly and calmly
Practice speaking up with confidence.

8. Join in community activities regularly
Increase belonging outside the home.

9. Develop safe online communication habits
Build digital confidence and awareness.

10. Strengthen decision-making in relationships
Support autonomy and self-trust.

Why These Goals Work

These goals:

• Are specific and measurable
• Support emotional and practical independence
• Align with NDIS reasonable and necessary supports
• Can be adapted to different ages and capacities
• Focus on skill-building, not compliance

Most importantly, they respect the young person as the expert in their own life.

Final Thought

Independence isn’t about doing everything alone.
It’s about having the skills, confidence, and support to make choices.

Strong NDIS goals don’t rush growth —they walk alongside it.

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