Understanding the New NDIS Framework Planning Changes in 2026: What Participants Need to Know

The NDIS is introducing a new framework planning approach from mid-2026. While only a small number of participants will transition initially, understanding the changes now can help you prepare for future planning conversations.

Why Is NDIS Changing? 

The NDIS currently approximately supports  more than 750,000 Australians and continues to grow each year. To ensure the scheme remains sustainable and delivers more consistent outcomes, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is introducing a new framework planning approach.

The new system aims to simplify planning, improve consistency across participant budgets, and reduce the need for participants to obtain multiple reports and assessments when developing or reviewing their plans.

Importantly, these changes will not happen all at once. The new framework planning approach will begin with a small group of participants from mid-2026 and gradually expand over several years.

More Flexible Funding Categories and Funding Periods

Under the new framework planning model, funding will be organized around support categories that are generally classified as either flexible or stated.

Flexible Funding

Flexible funding allows participants to use their budget across eligible supports within approved categories. This provides greater flexibility when circumstances change during the life of a plan.

Stated Funding

Stated funding is allocated for specific supports and must be used for its intended purpose. This is commonly applied to supports that require dedicated budgets or specialist services.

Funding Periods

Another important change is the introduction of funding periods for some plans. Rather than receiving access to all funding at once, participants may receive portions of their budget throughout the duration of their plan.

Funding periods are designed to help participants manage their budgets more effectively and ensure funding remains available when needed.

Support Needs Assessments Will Play a Bigger Role

A key part of the new framework planning model is the introduction of Support Needs Assessments. Instead of relying heavily on participant-funded reports, participants moving to the new framework will complete an assessment with a trained assessor.

The assessment will help the NDIA better understand a participant’s goals, daily living needs, and support requirements, creating a more consistent planning process while reducing the need for extensive supporting evidence.

What’s NOT Changing 

• Your existing plan remains valid — no rush to transition 
• Full choice and control over your providers are unchanged 
• Plan management options (self, plan-managed, NDIA-managed) stay the same 
• The ‘reasonable and necessary’ funding standard remains in place 

For more on how plan management works, visit the Senami plan management page. 

Four Steps to Prepare Before Your Next Review

• Review your current plan

Check whether your Capacity Building and Core budgets are being used. Unspent funding doesn’t roll over — now is a good time to engage in any therapy or coordination support you’ve been putting off.

• Write down your goals

The new framework gives more flexibility, but only if your plan captures the right support from the start. Make a list of what’s working and what’s missing before your planning meeting.

• Bring support to your planning meeting

A support coordinator or registered provider like Senami can help you navigate the new structure and ensure your Stated funding covers what matters most to you. 

• Stay informed and wait for NDIA updates

The transition to the new framework planning model will happen gradually over several years. Most participants will remain on their current plans until the NDIA contacts them about moving to the new system.

There is no immediate action required, but staying informed about upcoming planning changes can help you prepare when your turn comes.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Do I need to do anything right now?

No immediate action is required for most participants. The new framework planning approach will begin with a small group of participants from mid-2026 and expand gradually over time. The NDIA will contact participants before any changes affect their plans.

What is a Support Needs Assessment?

A Support Needs Assessment is a structured conversation with a trained assessor that helps the NDIA understand a participant’s support requirements. The assessment will be used to inform planning decisions and future budgets under the new framework.

Will my funding amount change? 

Not automatically. The framework changes how funding is categorized, not how much you receive. Your total budget is still based on your individual support needs. 

What exactly is ‘stated funding’ — should I be worried? 

No. Stated funding means certain high-cost support to get a protected budget. It’s designed to give specialist therapies and equipment more certainty, not less choice. 

Can I still use the same provider? 

Yes. Provider choice is not affected by the new framework. Your access to registered and unregistered providers depends only on how your plan is managed — same as it is now. 

Where can I get help understanding the changes? 

Senami’s support coordinators can walk you through exactly what the new framework means for your situation. Book a free consultation to get started. 

Prepare for Future NDIS Planning Changes with Senami

The new framework planning approach will be introduced gradually from mid-2026, giving participants time to understand how the changes may affect their future plans.

As a registered NDIS provider, Senami can help you stay informed, understand upcoming reforms, and prepare for future planning conversations with confidence.

Book a free consultation with Senami today to discuss your support needs and future NDIS planning options.