The NDIS Is Changing in 2026: What You Need to Know (Without the Panic)
The NDIS is going through some big changes. New laws have just been passed by Parliament, and reforms will roll out progressively throughout 2026.
If you're feeling unsure or worried, that's completely understandable…
…but here's the most important thing to know right now:
You can keep using your current NDIS plan and supports as usual, unless the NDIA tells you otherwise.
Nothing changes overnight. The reforms are happening step by step, and if a change affects you directly, the NDIA will contact you and explain what's changing and when.
Let's break down what's coming, in plain language.
Why is the NDIS changing?
Parliament has just passed new laws designed to make the NDIS more sustainable, so it can keep supporting people with disability well into the future.
Over time, these reforms will change:
How people access the NDIS – the process for becoming a participant
How plans are created – the way the NDIA builds your plan with you
How funding can be used – what your funding covers and how you spend it
How providers deliver supports – the rules providers must follow
How fraud is addressed – stronger protections to stop misuse of funding
How NDIS prices are set – the way costs for supports are decided
Important: Not every change to your plan is part of these reforms. Plans can still change through the normal planning process when your circumstances or support needs change. That's always been the case.
What changes from October 2026?
Funding for some supports
From October 2026, changes will start to affect funding for:
- Social, community and civic participation supports – things like joining community activities, groups or events
- Skill-building supports – supports that help you learn skills for everyday life
These changes will happen gradually, as plans are renewed or reassessed. This means not everyone will see a change at the same time. If your plan isn't due for review soon, nothing changes for you yet.
What you can do: If these supports are a big part of your plan, take some time to understand how much funding you have and how you're using it before your next review. This will help you have an informed conversation with the NDIA.
A new pathway for people with high support needs
A new plan variation pathway is being created for participants who need continuous 24-hour care for their disability-related needs.
This is designed to make it easier for plans to be adjusted when someone has significant, ongoing support requirements, without having to go through a full reassessment.
Clearer rules about plans being put on hold
From October, there will be clearer guidelines about when a plan can be put on hold. A plan can only be put on hold after the NDIA has made reasonable attempts to contact you first.
What you can do: If you get a letter, email or phone call from the NDIS, don't ignore it, even if you're not sure what it means. The NDIS may also try to contact you through the my NDIS portal, so it's important to check your portal regularly. If you're unsure about what's being asked, ask your support coordinator, plan manager or a trusted person to help you understand.
What changes from December 2026?
A 90-day deadline for claims
From December 2026, all NDIS claims must be made within 90 days of a support being delivered. This applies to participants, providers and plan managers.
In simple terms: once you receive a support, the payment claim needs to be submitted within about three months.
What you can do: Stay on top of your invoices, receipts and claims. If you self-manage your funding, this is especially important. Good record keeping will help you avoid missing the deadline and missing out on payment.
What should you do right now?
You don't need to change your supports just because reforms have been announced. But a few simple steps will help you feel prepared:
Understand your current plan. Know what funding you have, what it can be used for, and when your plan is due for review or reassessment.
Keep good records. Save your invoices, receipts and claim records in one place. This will make the new 90-day claiming rule much easier to manage.
Stay informed. Get your information from reliable sources, like official NDIS communications. Be careful of rumours or scary headlines on social media.
Ask questions. If you're unsure how a change affects you, don't work it out alone. Talk to your support coordinator, plan manager, provider or a trusted friend or family member.
The bottom line
Yes, change is coming to the NDIS, but there's no need to panic.
Your current plan and supports continue as normal unless you're told otherwise.
Changes are rolling out gradually, not all at once.
If something affects you directly, the NDIA will let you know.
Your disability-related support needs still matter, and they remain at the centre of the Scheme.
The best thing you can do is stay informed, understand your plan, and reach out for help when you need it.
We're here to help
At Collabor8 Supports, we know the NDIS can feel complicated, especially when the rules are changing. Whether you need help understanding your plan, connecting with supports, or making sense of the reforms, our team is here for you.
