Changes to NDIS Plans – What You Need to Know about “Funding Periods”
As of 19 May 2025, the NDIS has introduced changes to the way funding is organised in all NDIS plans. The newly added “funding periods” will be implemented into all new and reassessed plans. Instead of receiving your full annual budget upfront, your funding will now be released in smaller, regular instalments—typically every three months.
Why the Change?
This update is designed to:
- Help participants better manage their budgets
- Reduce the risk of overspending or running out of funds
- Support consistent access to services throughout the year
How It Works
Following your next NDIS plan review, you should expect your plan to look a bit different.
- Total Funding Amount should appear more clearly in your plan, but you will also see that funds will be released gradually over the duration of your plan. For example:
- Quarterly (every 3 months) – This appears to be most common.
- Monthly, semi-annually, or annually – depending on your needs
- Unspent funds within a period roll over to the next period.
- Leftover funds at the end of the plan do not carry over to a new plan.
Your NDIS planner should work with you to decide the best schedule and funding periods based on:
- Your goals and preferences
- The types of supports you use
- Minimising risk of overspending
When will these changes apply to my plan?
After 19 May 2025, NDIS plans will have a new format including funding periods for:
- New participants
- Existing participants, when they receive a new or reassessed plan through PACE
Navigating Flexibility in Your NDIS Plan
Whether it’s a new job, a house move, or learning new tech, change can happen and having flexible supports in your plan can help you stay on track.
Why Flexibility Matters
Therapy Supports and Vision services, such as Orientation & Mobility, Guide Dog Training, Low Vision, or Assistive Technology Mentors, aren’t always required on a set schedule. You might need more intensive support for:
- Functional capacity or low vision assessments
- Major life transitions like moving house, changing school or experiencing a change to existing supports
- Learning new equipment or routines
Tips for Your Planning Meeting
- Ask for more funding early in your plan to cover assessments and setup. Unused funds can roll over!
- Be cautious with Stated Supports – they lock funds to specific services. Ask for broader categories like Improved Daily Living to keep your options open.
- Explain your changing needs and how different therapists work together to support your goals.
Speak Up for What You Need
Let your planner know that flexibility helps you stay independent and responsive to change. It’s your plan — make sure it works for you.
For more information, please visit the NDIS website by clicking this link.