The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has released further information about upcoming changes to some NDIS support budgets that will take effect from 1 October 2026. These changes form part of broader NDIS reforms and may affect funding available under specific support categories.
What is changing?
From 1 October 2026, reductions will apply to funding within two support categories:
- Social and Community Participation funding will be reduced by 50%.
- Improved Daily Living funding will be reduced by 10%.
The NDIA has advised that some supports may be excluded from these reductions, with further details expected to be released. Current information suggests some therapeutic and early childhood supports could be affected.
When will the changes apply?
The changes will apply to NDIS plans that are:
- Created or reassessed from 1 October 2026.
- Renewed from 1 February 2027.
Because plans are reviewed at different times, participants may experience these changes at different stages of their NDIS journey.
What could this mean for participants?
The impact will vary for each participant, as every NDIS plan is tailored to individual goals, circumstances and support needs. Some participants may notice little change, while others may experience a reduction in funding available for certain supports.
Participants who have significant support needs may be eligible for additional safeguards introduced by the Australian Government. These safeguards are intended to provide a pathway to request changes to a plan if funding reductions create safety concerns. Eligibility criteria apply, and not all participants will qualify.
Can participants request changes to their plan?
Participants can continue to request a plan reassessment or plan variation if their circumstances change. However, the NDIA has advised that a reduction in funding resulting solely from these budget changes is not considered a reviewable decision and is not, on its own, grounds for a reassessment or plan variation.
If a participant’s needs, circumstances or goals change, they may still be able to seek adjustments to their plan through existing NDIS processes.
Where to get support
If you have questions about how these changes may affect your NDIS plan, we encourage you to speak with your support coordinator, therapist or NDIS contact. They can help you understand the changes and discuss options that may be available based on your individual circumstances.
For more information, visit the NDIS website and review the latest information on support budget changes from 1 October 2026.