[A warm, inclusive image of a person with disability enjoying a community activity alongside a support person, representing the importance of understanding NDIS funding changes and how they may affect individual supports, personal goals, choice and independence.]
Understanding the changes to support budgets and how to prepare for your next NDIS plan
Changes to the NDIS can bring questions about funding, supports and what comes next. With changes to some NDIS support budgets being introduced from October 2026, participants and their families may be wondering what this means for their current plans and the supports they rely on.
The important thing to know is that these changes do not affect every participant or every type of support. The impact will depend on your individual plan, circumstances and the supports included in your funding.
Understanding what is changing, knowing where to find reliable information and preparing for your next plan reassessment can help you feel more informed and confident about your supports.
What Is Changing With NDIS Funding?
From 1 October 2026, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) began introducing budget reductions for certain supports within two NDIS categories:
Social, Economic and Community Participation
Improved Daily Living Skills
The changes are being phased in as plans are created or reassessed from 1 October 2026, or renewed from 1 February 2027.
This means the changes will not necessarily apply to your current plan immediately. The timing and impact will depend on when your plan is reassessed or renewed and which supports are included.
When a budget reduction applies, the updated plan will show the funding changes so you can understand what has changed.
Will My NDIS Funding Be Reduced?
Not necessarily. The NDIA has advised that the impact will differ between participants because plans are based on individual goals, circumstances and support needs.
The reductions apply to specific supports within the two categories listed above. Some supports within these categories are excluded from the changes, and funding in other support categories is not affected by these particular budget reductions.
For example, certain supports relating to employment, disability-related health, high-intensity support, intensive and complex behaviour support, customised and wearable technology, and hearing services are excluded.
Essential day-to-day supports, including assistance with eating, drinking, dressing, toileting, laundry and cleaning, are also among the supports identified as not affected by these reductions.
However, the exact treatment of a support depends on the relevant NDIS support item and the NDIA's current guidance. It is important not to assume that every service within a category will be treated the same way.
If you are unsure whether a support you receive is affected, check the official NDIA information and discuss your individual plan with your Support Coordinator or relevant NDIS contact.
What Should You Do to Prepare?
You do not need to assume your supports will change overnight. Instead, use this as an opportunity to understand your plan and make sure your support arrangements continue to reflect your needs.
1. Review your current NDIS plan
Take some time to review your plan, including your funding categories, allocated budgets, goals and the supports you currently receive.
Knowing what funding you have and how it is being used can help you identify questions to raise if your plan is reassessed or renewed.
2. Keep track of the supports you use
Think about the supports that help you work towards your goals, build skills, participate in the community and manage everyday life.
Keeping track of the services you receive, how often you use them and what they help you achieve can make it easier to explain your needs during a planning conversation.
3. Gather relevant information about your needs
Your circumstances and support needs may change over time. Keep relevant reports, assessments and other supporting information organised, particularly if they help explain the assistance you need to maintain your independence, safety and wellbeing.
If your needs have changed significantly and on an ongoing basis, you may be able to request a plan change. The NDIA has specific processes and evidence requirements for reassessments and plan variations, so check which pathway applies to your circumstances.
4. Ask questions when your plan changes
If you receive a reassessed or renewed plan, take time to review it carefully.
If a budget has changed, ask which supports are affected, how the funding has been calculated and what options may be available if the plan no longer reflects your needs.
You should not have to make assumptions about your funding. Seek clarification from the NDIA or your relevant NDIS contact if something is unclear.
5. Speak with your Support Coordinator
A Support Coordinator can help you understand your available supports, review your support arrangements and identify questions you may want to raise with the NDIA.
They can also help you consider how to make the best use of your available funding in line with your plan and goals.
While a Support Coordinator cannot guarantee a particular funding outcome, they can help you stay informed, organised and prepared to navigate the process.
What If You Have High Support Needs?
The NDIA has introduced a plan variation pathway for eligible participants with high support needs who receive 24-hour funded NDIS supports.
This pathway is intended to help address situations where a budget reduction could put a participant's safety or wellbeing at risk.
Eligibility criteria apply, including specific requirements relating to the participant's total budget and 24-hour support needs. Eligible participants need to request the relevant variation within the required timeframe.
If you rely on extensive daily or overnight supports and are concerned about the impact of a funding change, seek guidance from the NDIA about whether this pathway may apply to you.
It is important to get advice based on your individual circumstances rather than assuming you are eligible.
Staying Informed About NDIS Changes
NDIS reforms are being introduced in stages, and further details may be released as implementation continues. Information you read online or hear from others may not apply to your individual plan.
For the most reliable updates, use the official NDIS website and speak with your NDIS contact when you need clarification.
You can also visit the NDIS website for information about the changes to NDIS laws and what they mean for participants.
The more familiar you are with your plan, your supports and your goals, the better prepared you will be to ask questions and make informed decisions.
You Don't Have to Navigate Your NDIS Plan Alone
Your NDIS plan should support your goals, your independence and the life you want to live. When funding arrangements change, having the right information and support can help you understand your options and plan your next steps.
At Nolastray Support, we believe participants should feel heard, informed and involved in decisions about their supports. Understanding your plan is an important part of making sure your support arrangements continue to reflect what matters to you.
If you have questions about your support coordination needs or would like to discuss how we may be able to support you, get in touch with the Nolastray Squad.
Learn more about our services or make a referral.
Be Honest. Be Adaptive. Be Legendary.
Please note: This article provides general information based on published NDIA guidance available at the time of writing. It is not financial, legal or individual NDIS planning advice. Funding decisions and eligibility depend on individual circumstances and the applicable NDIS rules. Please check the official NDIS website for the latest information.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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The changes to certain support budgets began from 1 October 2026 for plans created or reassessed from that date, and apply to renewed plans from 1 February 2027. The timing of any changes to your funding depends on your plan and individual circumstances.
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No. The changes apply to specific supports within Social, Economic and Community Participation and Improved Daily Living Skills. Not every support in these categories is affected, and the impact will vary depending on your plan.
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Not necessarily. The changes are being introduced as plans are created, reassessed or renewed. The NDIA may also bring forward the end date of some existing plans, providing 60 days' notice if it intends to change your plan end date.
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If a budget reduction applies when your plan is reassessed or renewed, your updated plan should outline the funding change. Review your new plan carefully and contact the NDIA if you need clarification about your budget or the supports affected.
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Start by reviewing your current plan and identifying the supports you rely on. Speak with your Support Coordinator or relevant NDIS contact about your concerns, and ask the NDIA to clarify how the changes apply to your circumstances. If you have high support needs, ask whether you may be eligible for the relevant plan variation pathway.
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Yes. A Support Coordinator can help you review your support arrangements, understand your available funding, identify questions to raise with the NDIA and explore options that align with your goals. They cannot guarantee a particular funding outcome, but they can help you navigate the process.
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Visit the official NDIS website for the latest announcements and guidance. You can also contact the NDIA directly or speak with your Support Coordinator if you need help understanding how a change may affect your plan.
Read other related blog posts:
You Have a Say: Understanding Choice and Control in Your NDIS Supports