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NDIS Changes in 2026: What Participants, Families and Carers Need to Know

Written by Admin | Aug 5, 2026, 11:17:02 PM

A plain-English guide to the 2026 NDIS changes, what they mean for your plan and where to get support.

Have You Heard About Changes to the NDIS?

Many participants, families and carers have questions about the NDIS changes introduced during 2025 and 2026.

Some proposed NDIS changes are still being considered by Parliament. This guide reflects the information available at the time of publication and will be updated as further changes are confirmed.

You may be wondering:

  • Will my funding change?
  • Will I lose supports?
  • What are the new Support Lists?
  • How will these changes affect my next NDIS plan?

If you are feeling unsure, you are not alone.

The NDIS has introduced several changes. Some changes have already started, while others will happen over time. The main changes include:

  • new NDIS Support Lists that explain the types of supports the NDIS may fund
  • funding periods, where some funding may be released in smaller amounts over time
  • updates to the NDIS rules and guidelines
  • new registration requirements for some NDIS providers
  • a new Pricing Schedule 

It is important to remember that these updates do not automatically mean that you will lose supports or receive less funding.

Every NDIS plan is different.

Your goals, your disability support needs and your personal circumstances will be considered when decisions are made about your supports.

This plain-English guide explains the main NDIS changes and what they could mean for you.

It will help you understand what is changing, what it could mean for you and where to find trusted information and support.

 

What You Will Learn

After reading this guide, you will understand:

  • the main NDIS changes in 2026
  • what the changes could mean for you
  • why every NDIS plan is different
  • where to find trusted information
  • what to do if you have questions.

What Has Changed in the NDIS?

The NDIS has introduced several important changes.

Some changes have already started. Other changes will happen over time.

The main changes include:

  • new NDIS Support Lists that explain the types of supports the NDIS may fund
  • funding periods, where some funding may be released in smaller amounts over time
  • updates to NDIS rules and guidelines
  • a new NDIS Pricing Schedule.

These updates have been introduced over time and not every change will affect every participant.

Some apply when plans are reassessed, while others affect how funding is managed or how providers operate.

Understanding the main changes can help you feel more prepared for your next planning conversation.

Not every change will affect every participant.

If something does change for you, ask questions and make sure you understand what it means for your plan.

Speaking with your planner, Local Area Coordinator (LAC), Support Coordinator or another trusted professional can help you make informed decisions.

Every NDIS plan is based on your goals, disability support needs and personal circumstances.

 

What You Can Do

Learning about the changes before your next planning meeting can help you feel more prepared.

Look for information from trusted sources, such as the NDIS or your support team. Information shared on social media may not always be correct or apply to your situation.

Why is the NDIS Making These Changes?

The changes are intended to make the NDIS clearer, fairer and more consistent.

Some changes explain what the NDIS is designed to fund.

Others affect how funding is managed during a plan.

Even with these changes, every participant is still assessed as an individual.

In Plain Terms

The changes are not designed to give everyone the same plan.

Your goals, disability support needs and personal circumstances will still be considered when decisions are made about your supports.

Remember Every NDIS Plan is Different

The NDIS changes will not affect every participant in the same way.

Some participants may notice changes to their funding or supports over time. Others may experience very little change.

If you have questions about your plan, take time to understand the changes and ask for help before making any decisions.

Your plan will still be based on your goals, disability support needs and supporting information.

A Common Situation

A parent hears about the latest NDIS changes and worries that their daughter’s supports may change.

They speak with their Support Coordinator and look for information from trusted sources.

They realise that the best way to understand how the changes may affect them is to review their individual circumstances and seek advice when more information becomes available.

 

Understanding the 2026 NDIS Support Lists

The new Support Lists are one of the biggest changes to the NDIS.

The lists explain the types of supports that the NDIS is generally designed to fund.

They also explain the types of supports that are not usually funded through the NDIS.

The aim is to make funding decisions clearer and more consistent.

What This Means in Practice

The Support Lists do not automatically remove your current supports.

If you are unsure how these apply to your plan, speak with your planner, Local Area Coordinator (LAC), Support Coordinator or plan manager.

Understanding Funding Periods

Some new and reassessed NDIS plans may include funding periods.

This means that some funding may be released in stages during your plan instead of all at once.

Funding periods do not automatically reduce the total amount of funding in your plan. They mainly change when some funding becomes available.

What You Can Do

Funding periods may change how you plan your supports during the year.

They do not automatically mean that you will receive less funding.

 

Changes to NDIS Prices

A new NDIS Pricing Schedule started on 1 July 2026.

Some participant plans are being updated to reflect these new prices.

If your provider needs to change the price in an existing service agreement, they must talk with you first. You need to agree before the new price can be applied.

Before You Agree

If your provider talks to you about a price change, ask them to explain:

  • what is changing
  • when the new price will start
  • how it may affect your NDIS budget.

Take your time to understand the changes before you agree.

How Can You Prepare?

You do not need to understand every NDIS change straight away.

There are some simple things you can do before your next planning meeting.

You can:

  • read your current NDIS plan
  • think about your goals
  • keep reports and supporting information up to date
  • write down any questions you have
  • keep records if your needs or situation change
  • ask your support team if you need help.

You can also learn more through trusted NDIS resources, webinars and accessible learning tools, including NDIS Engage courses developed for people with disability.

Many families also find it helpful to speak with a trusted provider before their next planning conversation.

Your Next Step

Start with one small step.

You might read your plan, write down a question or talk with someone you trust.

Being prepared can help you feel more confident.

How Endeavour Foundation Can Help

Everyone's NDIS journey is different.

Whether you are new to the NDIS, preparing for a plan reassessment or looking for new supports, Endeavour Foundation is here to help.

We support people with intellectual disability to build independence, develop skills and achieve their goals.

Our services include:

Not sure where to start?

Our experienced team can answer your questions; help you understand your options and connect you with supports that are right for your goals.

 

Common Questions About the 2026 NDIS Changes

Will these changes affect everyone?

No.

Every NDIS plan is different.

Some people may notice changes to their plan or funding. Others may notice very little change.

Will I automatically lose funding because of the new Support Lists?

No.

The Support Lists explain the types of supports the NDIS is designed to fund.

They do not automatically remove your current supports or reduce your funding.

What are funding periods?

Funding periods mean that some funding is released during your plan instead of all at once.

They do not automatically reduce the total funding in your plan.

What should I do if my situation changes?

Keep records of any changes.

Speak with your planner, LAC, Support Coordinator or plan manager if your support needs change or you have concerns.

Where can I get more information?

You can find trusted information from:

  • the NDIS
  • the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission
  • your planner
  • your LAC
  • your Support Coordinator
  • your plan manager
  • a trusted NDIS provider.

If you are unsure about anything, ask questions. There are people who can help.