NDIS Changes 2026: A Plain English Summary for Participants and Families

2026 is the biggest year of change since the NDIS began. Here is what is happening, in order, without the jargon.

From 1 July 2026

Providers of Supported Independent Living and online platform providers must be registered with the NDIS Commission. This targets higher risk home and living supports. Everyday supports like cleaning, gardening and community access are not affected.

From 1 October 2026

Budgets for social and community participation start to be adjusted, with average spend in that category coming down over two years. The Thriving Kids program for children also begins, as part of new foundational supports outside the NDIS.

Delayed to 2027 and beyond

New framework planning, including the new I-CAN support needs assessment, now starts from 1 April 2027 after being pushed back from mid 2026. Changes to scheme eligibility based on functional assessment apply to new participants from 1 January 2028.

What you should do now

• Do not panic. Your current plan keeps running under current rules until it is reviewed
• Keep simple records of how you use your funding and how supports help you
• If you use SIL, check your provider is registered or getting registered
• Follow official NDIA and NDIS Commission updates rather than social media rumours

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Last updated: June 2026. This article is general information only, current at the date of publishing. Always check the official NDIS and NDIS Commission websites for your own situation.