The Australian Government is making a series of changes to the NDIS under its plan to secure the scheme for future generations. Some of these start from 1 October 2026, and more follow over the next few years. If you're a participant, or you support someone who is, this guide explains what's changing, when it may affect your plan, and where to get help.
The official sources are the NDIA's Changes to support budgets from 1 October news item, and the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing's Securing the NDIS for future generations page and reform timeline. Details can change, so check there before making decisions.
What's changing from 1 October 2026
- Two support budget categories. Budgets for Social, Economic and Community Participation and for Improved Daily Living Skills will be reduced over the next 12 months. The NDIA says the effect will be different for every participant, because every plan is based on individual goals, circumstances and support needs.
- A new Inclusive Communities Fund. Alongside this, the government is establishing a $200 million fund to help community organisations, such as clubs, arts groups and disability organisations, host genuine participation activities.
- A new plan variation pathway opens for participants with high support needs who receive 24-hour funded NDIS supports. The NDIA's news item explains who can ask for it.
- Thriving Kids begins. A new program for children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism and low to moderate support needs started rolling out, outside the NDIS. See our Thriving Kids guide.
Since 27 August 2026, there have also been tighter criteria for unscheduled plan reassessments. Participants, plan nominees and guardians can still request one when there has been a significant and ongoing change in support needs.
When will it affect my plan?
The budget changes don't happen to everyone on the same day. The NDIA applies them as plans are created or reassessed from 1 October 2026, or renewed from 1 February 2027, so many people won't notice a change until their next plan.
What isn't affected
The NDIA says other parts of participant plans aren't affected. That includes essential day-to-day supports like help with eating, drinking, dressing, toileting, laundry, cleaning, nursing care and medication, as well as home and vehicle modifications, personal mobility equipment and specialist disability accommodation. Some supports within the two categories aren't affected either, including employment supports, disability-related health supports, high intensity supports, intensive and complex behaviour supports, customised and wearable technology, and hearing services. The NDIA has published the full list on its news page, along with Easy Read guides.
When your new plan arrives:
- Read it carefully and compare it with your previous plan, especially the community participation and capacity building sections.
- If something isn't clear, ask your NDIA planner, early childhood partner or local area coordinator to explain how the decision was made.
- If you have a support coordinator, talk with them about how to make the most of your plan and what other options are available.
Looking further ahead
The official timeline lists more changes in coming years, including changes to plan rollovers as plans reach their reassessment dates from 1 February 2027, a gradual move to new framework planning from 1 April 2027, and changes to NDIS access for new applicants from 1 January 2028. We'll keep our guides updated as more detail is published.
If your needs change, or you disagree with a decision
The NDIA says this budget change itself isn't a reviewable decision. But you can still ask for a plan reassessment or plan variation if there's been a significant and ongoing change to your ability to complete daily activities, your living arrangements, your education or employment circumstances, or the informal supports available to you.
Other decisions about your plan can still be reviewed in the usual way. The NDIS explains the steps and time limits on its how to request a review of a decision page, or you can call 1800 800 110.
Free, independent disability advocates can help you work out your options. You can find one through the Disability Gateway on 1800 643 787.
Finding community activities
Many good ways to stay connected don't depend on NDIS funding at all. Local councils, libraries, neighbourhood houses, sporting clubs and community organisations often run free or low-cost groups and activities. Your council's website is a good place to start.
How Nhanya Foundation can help
Nhanya Foundation is a charity, not the NDIA, so we can't make or change NDIS decisions. Our advocacy and service navigation team can help you understand letters and plans, prepare for a reassessment or review, and connect with independent advocacy and community activities. Call 03 8595 9012 or make a referral.
Got a new NDIS plan or letter and not sure what it means? Call Nhanya Foundation on 03 8595 9012 or make a referral and our team will help you understand your options.