Recent updates from the Federal Government have outlined several proposed changes to the NDIS. While many of these changes are still in development, they signal a shift in how the scheme may operate in the coming years.

For participants, families, and support providers, it is important to stay informed and understand what these changes could mean in practice.

Here is a clear breakdown of the key announcements and what to be aware of moving forward.

Delay to the New Planning Framework

The rollout of the new NDIS planning framework has been delayed until 1 April next year.

This delay allows more time to:

• Address concerns raised by disability advocacy groups
• Refine the system to avoid unintended consequences
• Ensure the changes are practical and fair for participants

For now, current planning processes will remain in place.

Changes to Plan Reviews and Funding Oversight

There was discussion about the number of unscheduled plan reviews and the increase in plan budgets.

While different parts of the system were referenced, the key takeaway is that:

• The government is focusing on tightening oversight of plan funding
• There may be more scrutiny around how plans are built and adjusted

For participants, this highlights the importance of:

• Having clear goals in your plan
• Ensuring funding is aligned with your actual support needs
• Working with experienced providers who can advocate effectively

Focus on Social and Community Participation Funding

One of the major areas highlighted was spending on social and community participation.

The government raised concerns about:

• Increasing costs in this category
• Variability in the quality of support being delivered

As a result, there may be:

• Reduced funding in some plans for community access supports
• A shift toward more structured or group-based activities

Introduction of the Inclusive Communities Fund

To support community participation in a different way, the government has announced a $200 million Inclusive Communities Fund.

This is expected to:

• Provide more group-based programs and activities
• Offer community access opportunities outside individual NDIS plans
• Deliver services in a more cost-effective way

Participants may see a gradual shift from individual supports to more community-based options over time.

Changes to Providers and Intermediaries

There is a strong focus on reducing costs across the system, particularly in areas such as:

• Plan management
• Support coordination

Proposed changes include:

• A reduction in spending in these areas
• The introduction of a short list of approved providers
• Greater accountability and quality control

This may affect how participants choose and work with providers in the future.

New Eligibility and Assessment Approach

One of the most significant changes is the move toward standardised functional assessments.

This means:

• Less focus on diagnosis alone
• Greater focus on how a person’s disability impacts daily life and functioning

The aim is to create a more consistent and transparent access process.

Participant Numbers and Future Direction

The government has set a target to reduce participant numbers to around 600,000 by 2030.

A large part of this change is expected to come from:

• New approaches for children under 9 through the Thriving Kids program
• Increased use of Foundational Supports, which sit outside the NDIS

What Are Foundational Supports?

Around $6 billion has been allocated to Foundational Supports.

These are services outside the NDIS designed for people who:

• Have lower support needs
• May not meet NDIS eligibility in the future

This could include community programs, early intervention, and general disability supports delivered at a state level.

Psychosocial Disability and State-Based Supports

There was reassurance that participants with psychosocial disabilities are not being removed from the NDIS.

However, there will be a renewed focus on:

• Rebuilding state-based psychosocial support programs
• Providing additional pathways of support outside the NDIS

Increased Regulation and Oversight

Several measures are being introduced to improve quality and accountability, including:

• Mandatory registration for support workers
• A digital payment system to track and monitor spending
• Changes to how services like Supported Independent Living and coordination are commissioned

These changes aim to improve safety, transparency, and consistency across the sector.

What This Means for Participants

While many of these changes are still being developed, there are a few key things participants can focus on right now:

• Make sure your NDIS goals are clear and meaningful
• Work with providers who prioritise quality, transparency, and advocacy
• Stay informed as changes are confirmed and implemented
• Be open to different types of support, including community-based programs

How Newcastle Social Workers Can Help

At Newcastle Social Workers, we stay up to date with changes in the NDIS so we can support you with clarity and confidence.

We can help you:

• Understand how changes may impact your plan
• Prepare for plan reviews and future assessments
• Advocate for the support you need
• Navigate new systems and funding structures

The NDIS is evolving, but the focus remains the same, supporting people to live meaningful, independent lives.

If you would like guidance on what these changes could mean for you, contact Newcastle Social Workers today.