The Australian Government has introduced reforms to help ensure the NDIS continues to support people with permanent and significant disability. The changes cover several areas, including eligibility, participant funding, planning arrangements and provider responsibilities.
The reforms will be introduced in stages rather than all at once. Participants should continue using their existing plans and supports unless they are advised that a particular change affects them.
1. Changes to NDIS Access and Eligibility
From 1 January 2028, new eligibility arrangements are expected to apply to people applying for the NDIS.
Under the updated approach, eligibility will place greater emphasis on how a person’s disability affects their functional capacity and everyday activities. Assessments will consider the impact of a person’s impairment on their ability to manage daily life.
People with permanent and significant disability will continue to be able to access the NDIS if they meet the relevant requirements.
People already receiving NDIS support will also be reassessed under the new criteria progressively over three years from January 2028.
2. What the Changes Mean for Children
The reforms also include changes affecting younger children.
From 1 January 2028, children aged eight and under with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs will be supported through the planned Thriving Kids program rather than the NDIS.
Children with permanent and significant disability, including those with substantially reduced functional capacity and higher support needs, will remain able to access the NDIS if they meet the eligibility requirements.
The Government is working with states and territories on the design and implementation of Thriving Kids.
3. Changes to Some NDIS Funding Categories
From 1 October 2026, funding allocations for certain supports began changing as participant plans are created, renewed or reassessed.
The announced changes include:
- A 50% reduction in budget allocations for social, economic and community participation supports.
- A 10% reduction in budget allocations for improved daily living skills supports.
These adjustments are being introduced progressively over a 12-month period.
It is important to understand that a change to a budget allocation does not automatically mean every participant will spend 50% or 10% less. The actual impact will depend on individual plan budgets and how much funding is currently being used.
Participants should review their plan information and seek clarification from the NDIA if they are unsure how these changes affect their supports.
4. Changes Affecting Plan Management
The reforms also include updates to the way NDIS plans are managed and reviewed.
The Government is working towards a new framework for planning, with further development and consultation taking place.
There are also changes to the process for requesting plan reassessments. Participants should make sure they understand the current requirements before submitting a request, particularly if their support needs or personal circumstances have changed.
5. Changes to Provider Responsibilities
The new legislation includes measures intended to strengthen the management and oversight of the NDIS.
These include changes relating to provider registration, record keeping, fraud prevention and regulatory powers.
For participants, these measures are part of broader efforts to improve accountability and protect NDIS funding. Providers also need to stay informed about relevant requirements and make sure their services and administrative practices meet applicable standards.
6. What Participants and Families Can Do Now
Although some changes will not begin until 2028, participants and families can take practical steps to stay prepared.
- Keep up with official updates: Check the NDIS website for information about changes and implementation dates.
- Understand your current plan: Review your funded supports and check when your plan is due for renewal or reassessment.
- Keep relevant documents: Maintain records and supporting information about your disability-related support needs.
- Ask questions: Contact the NDIA or your my NDIS contact if you need clarification.
- Discuss support arrangements: Speak with your provider or support coordinator about how any confirmed changes may affect your services.
Taking the time to understand your plan can make it easier to respond when new arrangements apply.
How Disability Support Providers Can Help
Changes to NDIS policies and funding can create questions for participants and their families. Clear communication and reliable day-to-day support remain important throughout these changes.
At Affinity Care WA, disability support services include Supported Independent Living (SIL), disability accommodation, Drop-in Support, assistance with daily living and community participation across Perth.
Understanding each participant’s needs, preferences and goals helps ensure that support arrangements remain focused on their everyday requirements. Participants should speak with the NDIA about individual eligibility, funding and plan decisions.
Looking Ahead
The 2026 NDIS reforms will be introduced over several stages, with some changes already underway and others planned for the coming years.
Participants and families should avoid relying on general information alone when making decisions about their individual plans. Checking official announcements and seeking clarification from the NDIA can help ensure they have accurate information about their circumstances.
Read the official government information:
About the changes to the NDIS – Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
This article is an independently written overview based on information published by the Australian Government. It is not an official government publication and does not replace advice from the NDIA.