The Federal Government has announced significant reforms to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), aiming to restore the program to its original intent while ensuring its long-term sustainability. These changes are expected to impact participants, families, and providers across Australia, with a strong focus on early intervention and foundational supports
Why Are These Changes Being Made?
The government has outlined two key reasons behind the reforms:
- Returning the NDIS to its original intent – ensuring the scheme is focused on people with permanent and significant disability.
- Addressing rapid growth and sustainability – managing costs while ensuring fairness and access for those who need it most.
Introduction of Foundational Supports
A major shift will be the rollout of foundational supports, designed to assist people with disability who may not meet full NDIS eligibility.
What are foundational supports?
These supports will provide services at a community level, including access to therapies, developmental programs, and allied health services.
The role of states and territories
The program will be jointly funded by the federal government and states/territories, ensuring nationwide access.
Thriving Kids Program: A New Approach for Children
Children are at the heart of these reforms, with the Thriving Kids Program receiving a $2 billion federal investment, matched by states and territories.
Key features include:
- A strong focus on children with developmental delay and autism.
- Links with Medicare, including bulk-billed developmental checks and new allied health items.
- A gradual rollout starting mid-2026, with full implementation by mid-2027.
Concerns from Disability Advocates
While the reforms have been welcomed in principle, advocates and stakeholders have raised concerns about:
- The readiness of systems to deliver these new supports.
- Risks that some children may miss out on essential services during the transition.
- The shift of funding responsibility from the Commonwealth (Australian) Government to the States (NSW, VIC, QLD, etc.). Some states are pushing back, expressing concern about taking on this additional funding and service delivery responsibility.
How NDIS Access Will Change
From now until 2027, access to the NDIS will undergo a transition:
- Children under nine will face reassessments.
- A new “impairment notice” system will be introduced.
- The scheme will shift from upfront lump-sum payments to more ongoing funding models.
Future Expansion of Foundational Supports
The government has flagged future expansions, which may include:
- Adults with severe mental illness.
- Teens and young adults need support for school, work, and independent living transitions.
What This Means for Australians with Disability and Their Families
For current NDIS participants, the government has promised reassurances of continuity. At the same time, families can expect both opportunities and challenges as the reforms roll out.
For NDIS Providers
👉 For providers, understandinoft NDIS compliance and responsibilities remains critical as these chanoftes roll out.