Article Update:
This article was originally published before the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 was passed by Parliament. On 19 August 2026, the Bill passed both houses of Parliament and is now awaiting Royal Assent. While the legislation has passed, not all changes take effect immediately.
Different reforms will commence at different times, and the NDIS has advised that participants can continue using their current plans and supports as usual for now.
This article has been updated on 20 August 2026 to reflect the latest available information.
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is undergoing significant reform following the passage of new legislation through the Australian Parliament.
Many people living with disability, along with their families and carers, have understandably been left with questions about what these changes may mean for their future, their eligibility and their access to supports.
While the legislation has now passed Parliament, the changes will be introduced progressively. Some reforms will begin soon after Royal Assent, while others, including changes to NDIS access arrangements, will not commence until later. For now, existing participants can continue using their current plans and supports as usual.
What are the key NDIS changes in 2026?
The new legislation introduces a range of reforms designed to change how the NDIS operates over coming years. These include changes to eligibility, planning, funding arrangements and governance.
The key changes include:
- A greater focus on functional capacity: From 1 January 2028, access to the NDIS will move towards a standardised, evidence-based assessment of functional capacity, looking at how a person’s disability affects their everyday life rather than relying on diagnosis alone.
- Changes for children aged 8 and under: Children with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs are expected to transition to the new Thriving Kids program as it is progressively introduced. Children with permanent and significant disability, including those with high support needs, will continue to be eligible for the NDIS.
- Updated eligibility requirements: From 2028, new applicants will need to meet updated criteria relating to permanent or likely permanent disability and substantially reduced functional capacity.
- Changes to plan management and reassessment: The legislation also changes aspects of how participants can request plan reassessments and how plans will be managed, with different provisions commencing at different times following Royal Assent.
It is important to remember that these reforms will not all happen immediately. The NDIS will continue to provide updates as each stage is implemented.
What is changing about NDIS eligibility?
One of the major areas of reform is how NDIS eligibility and support needs are assessed.
The NDIS is developing a more standardised approach to assessing functional capacity. Functional capacity looks at how a person’s disability affects their ability to manage everyday activities, such as communication, mobility, self-care, learning, social interaction and self-management.
A functional capacity assessment can provide evidence about how a person’s disability affects their everyday life and the types of support they may need.
Importantly, a diagnosis on its own does not necessarily describe the full impact of a disability. Two people with the same diagnosis may have very different functional abilities and support needs.
What is Thriving Kids?
One of the most significant reforms for families is the introduction of Thriving Kids, a new support program being developed for children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs.
The program will be introduced progressively in partnership with states and territories. Children with permanent and significant disability, including children with developmental delay and/or autism who have substantially reduced functional capacity and high support needs, will continue to be eligible for the NDIS.
Families should be aware that the rollout will occur over time, and the detailed design of Thriving Kids is still being developed. The NDIS will provide further information before these changes affect families.
Will existing NDIS participants be affected?
If you already receive support through the NDIS, the most important thing to know is that your current plan and supports continue as usual for now.
The NDIS has advised that participants will be informed before changes affect them. From 1 January 2028, existing participants will progressively begin transitioning to the new eligibility arrangements over a three-year period rather than everyone being reassessed at once.
If you have an upcoming plan reassessment or your circumstances change significantly, it is still helpful to ensure your reports and supporting documentation accurately reflect your current needs, goals and everyday functioning.
You can also seek support from your support coordinator, local area coordinator, recovery coach, advocate or other trusted professional if you need help preparing for discussions with the NDIS.
How can I prepare for an NDIS plan reassessment?
If you have an upcoming plan reassessment, it can be helpful to gather current information about your disability and how it affects your everyday life.
This may include:
- reports or assessments from treating health professionals
- information about how your current supports are helping you work towards your goals
- evidence of changes in your circumstances or support needs
- information about goals or significant changes you expect over the coming years.
It is also important to keep the NDIS informed if your circumstances change. This may include changes to your health, employment, living arrangements or informal support network.
Your support coordinator, recovery coach, local area coordinator, plan manager, advocate or another trusted professional may be able to help you understand what information you need and prepare for a plan reassessment.
What if I am worried about losing NDIS support?
Changes to the NDIS can understandably create uncertainty, particularly when supports are important to your independence, wellbeing and daily life.
If you are feeling unsure about your rights, eligibility or what these changes may mean for your individual circumstances, an independent disability advocate may be able to help.
A disability advocate can support you to understand your rights, navigate the NDIS and access relevant services and information.
Disability advocacy services are available across Australia, including:
- NSW: Disability Advocacy NSW
- Queensland: Queensland Government advocacy supports
- Victoria: Victorian Disability Advocacy Program
- Western Australia: Disability advocacy services
- ACT: ADACAS
- South Australia: Disability Advocacy and Complaints Service of SA
How can I look after my wellbeing during NDIS changes?
Changes to services, funding or eligibility can be stressful. It is understandable to experience worry, frustration or uncertainty when you do not know what the future may look like.
During periods of uncertainty, small and manageable strategies may help support your wellbeing. Where possible, try to maintain familiar routines, get enough rest, spend time doing activities you enjoy and stay connected with people you trust.
If you are finding things particularly difficult, consider speaking with someone who can support you, such as a family member, friend, advocate or health professional.
Support is available if you need it. Our Allied Health team can provide support to help you manage your wellbeing, build coping strategies and navigate periods of change. Appointments are available in person or via telehealth, providing flexible options depending on your needs and circumstances.
Remember that asking for help is a strength, particularly when you are navigating significant changes.
Where can I find the latest information about NDIS changes?
NDIS reforms are being introduced progressively, so information may change as new legislation, policies and implementation arrangements are finalised.
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official NDIS website and check information relevant to your circumstances.
If you are unsure about how changes may affect your individual situation, consider speaking with the NDIS directly or seeking independent advice from a disability advocate or other trusted professional.
This article provides general information only and is not intended to provide legal, financial or individual NDIS advice. NDIS policies and arrangements are changing, so always check the latest information from the NDIS or an appropriately qualified professional.
