The NDIS Is Changing Again: What You Need to Know (And Why Your Voice Still Matters)

If you've been following the NDIS over the past few months, you've probably experienced a mixture of confusion, frustration, concern and information overload.

One day it's a proposed Bill. The next day it's a consultation period. Then there are amendments, Senate inquiries, media reports, social media speculation and advocacy campaigns. It can feel almost impossible to know what's actually happening.

So, where are we now?

We break it down for you here…

What is changing?

In May 2026, the Australian Government introduced the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026. The Government says the purpose of the Bill is to ensure the NDIS remains sustainable for people with permanent and significant disability, both now and into the future.

The proposed reforms focus on several key areas, including:

• Clarifying who is eligible for the NDIS.

• Changing how eligibility is assessed.

• Clarifying what supports the NDIS will (and won't) fund.

• Strengthening fraud prevention measures.

• Updating governance and administrative arrangements.

• Introducing a new planning framework over time.

While the Government says these changes are intended to improve consistency and sustainability, they have also generated significant concern from participants, families, providers, disability advocates and peak bodies.

Why are people concerned?

One of the biggest concerns is that some of the proposed changes could make it more difficult for people to access or remain on the NDIS.

There are also concerns around:

• how "functional capacity" assessments may be used for eligibility;

• proposed changes to planning and funding arrangements;

• reductions to some support categories over time;

• whether mainstream and foundational supports will be ready to support people who may no longer qualify for the NDIS

The Government has responded to feedback by proposing amendments to strengthen safeguards and clarify aspects of the legislation, and it has indicated that many reforms will be introduced progressively over several years.

The consultation period has ended... so is it too late?

No.

While the formal public consultation period has closed, the conversation is far from over.

The Senate inquiry into the Bill has been extended until 14 August 2026, with the Government acknowledging that further engagement with the disability community will continue as reforms are developed.

Importantly, there are currently no open public consultations, but the Government has confirmed that additional consultation and engagement on major reform areas will occur from July to October 2026, including:

• new eligibility processes;

• new planning rules;

• Supported Independent Living (SIL);

• provider pricing reforms;

• the Inclusive Communities Fund; and

• market reforms for community participation supports.

In other words…

The consultation may have closed on this stage of the Bill, but there are still many opportunities to shape how these reforms are implemented.

So... what can you do now?

If you're feeling powerless, you're not alone.

The good news is there are still meaningful ways to have your voice heard.

• Stay informed

One of the biggest challenges right now is misinformation.

Try to rely on official sources such as the NDIS and the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing for updates rather than social media rumours.

• Register for future consultations

The Government has committed to ongoing co-design and engagement as reforms continue.

You can register your interest through NDIS Engage and the Government's consultation channels to be notified when new consultations open.

• Contact your local representatives

Members of Parliament and Senators continue to hear from constituents throughout the legislative process.

Sharing your lived experience respectfully—whether you're a participant, family member, carer, provider or advocate—can help decision-makers understand the practical impact proposed changes may have.

• Share your story

Data is important, and statistics matter, but lived experience is powerful.

Whether through advocacy organisations, community groups or conversations with elected representatives, sharing your experiences can help ensure policy reflects the realities of living with disability.

• Support disability advocacy organisations

Many disability organisations continue to analyse the legislation, advocate for improvements and represent the voices of participants and families throughout the reform process.

Supporting their work helps strengthen collective advocacy.

What happens next?

The proposed legislation has not yet completed the parliamentary process.

The Senate inquiry is continuing, further consultations are planned throughout 2026, and implementation of many reforms is expected to occur progressively over several years rather than overnight.

That means there is still time for the disability community to contribute to how these reforms are shaped.

Final thoughts

Regardless of where you stand on the proposed reforms, one thing is clear: these changes have the potential to affect hundreds of thousands of Australians.

It's understandable to feel uncertain, but uncertainty doesn't mean silence.

The consultation period may have closed, but your voice still matters.

Stay informed. Stay engaged. Ask questions. Participate in future consultations. Continue sharing your lived experience.

Because the future of the NDIS should be shaped not just for people with disability - but with them.