The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is undergoing significant changes. With reforms to eligibility, assessment and the way some children and families will access support, it is understandable that participants and families may have questions about what these changes mean for them.
Some changes are already underway, while others are being introduced progressively or are subject to legislative and implementation processes. This means the NDIS landscape will continue to evolve over the coming years.
Here is an overview of the key NDIS changes and what participants and families should know.
What are the key NDIS changes in 2026?
The Australian Government is introducing a number of reforms intended to improve the sustainability of the NDIS and ensure that people receive support based on their individual needs.
Some of the key changes include:
- A greater focus on functional capacity: The Government is moving towards a more standardised, evidence-based approach to assessing a person’s functional capacity and support needs, rather than relying on diagnosis alone.
- Changes for young children: Thriving Kids is being introduced as a new form of support outside the NDIS for children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs.
- A focus on permanent disability: Changes to NDIS access arrangements are intended to ensure the scheme remains focused on people with permanent and significant disability.
- Changes to access pathways: The Government is also considering how people who receive support through other compensation or insurance schemes, such as workers compensation and motor vehicle accident schemes, interact with the NDIS.
The timing and implementation of individual reforms will vary. It is important to check the latest information from the NDIS before making decisions about your supports or eligibility.
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 changing for children under nine?
A significant change for families with young children is the introduction of Thriving Kids, which is part of the Government’s broader Foundational Supports reforms.
From 1 October 2026, Thriving Kids services will begin to support children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs. The program is expected to be fully rolled out by 1 January 2028.
Children with permanent and significant disability, including children with developmental delay and/or autism who have high support needs, will continue to be eligible for the NDIS, subject to the usual eligibility arrangements.
Thriving Kids is designed to provide support outside the NDIS and connect children and families with appropriate services based on their needs.
Because implementation is occurring progressively, families should check the latest information available in their state or territory before making decisions about their child’s supports.
Will existing NDIS participants be affected?
Existing participants may be affected by changes to the way the NDIS assesses eligibility, support needs and plans.
The NDIS may reassess a person’s eligibility if there is information or evidence suggesting they may no longer meet the eligibility requirements. Participants will be notified if an eligibility reassessment is started and will have an opportunity to provide information and evidence.
NDIS plans may also be varied or reassessed when a person’s circumstances or support needs change, or when their plan reaches its reassessment date.
Preparing for a plan reassessment can help ensure the NDIS has an accurate understanding of your circumstances and support needs.
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 concerned about your eligibility or the impact of changes on your supports, you do not have to navigate the process alone.
A disability advocate may be able to help you understand your rights, access information and navigate services. You can also speak with your support coordinator, local area coordinator, recovery coach or another trusted professional.
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.
