The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is introducing a new planning framework that will begin rolling out from mid 2026. These changes aim to improve fairness, consistency, and transparency in how participant plans are developed and funded.
For NDIS providers, this new way of planning will have a direct impact on how participant needs are identified, how supports are funded, and how services are delivered and documented. Providers should begin preparing now to understand how these changes may affect participants and service delivery.
The full NDIS announcement can be read here:
[https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/11024-update-new-way-planning]
What Is Changing Under the New Planning Framework
Under the new planning approach, the NDIS will place greater emphasis on a participant’s support needs rather than relying heavily on functional assessments or extensive external reports.
The key objectives of the new framework include:
- Improving consistency in funding decisions for participants with similar needs
- Reducing reliance on costly and repetitive reports
- Creating simpler and more flexible participant plans
- Ensuring plans are more closely aligned with participant goals and daily support requirements
The changes will be introduced gradually from mid 2026. During the transition period, both the current planning approach and the new framework are expected to operate at the same time.
Support Needs Assessments and What They Mean for Providers
A core component of the new framework is the introduction of Support Needs Assessments.
These assessments will be conducted by trained and accredited assessors who will work directly with participants to understand their daily life, environment, and disability-related support needs. Participants may choose to involve family members, carers, or support people in these discussions.
While providers will not conduct Support Needs Assessments, the outcomes will directly influence participant budgets and the types of supports funded. Providers should be prepared to:
- Support participants to understand the assessment process
- Ensure service delivery aligns with assessed support needs
- Clearly document how supports link to participant goals and outcomes
NDIS plans will continue to be reviewed and approved by qualified NDIS staff, ensuring decisions remain human led.
The I-CAN v6 Assessment Tool
The NDIS will use the Instrument for the Classification and Assessment of Support Needs, known as I-CAN v6, to inform planning decisions.
This tool uses a person-centred and strengths-based approach and has been used across care systems for many years. It helps identify the level and type of disability-related supports a participant may require.
Although the new framework aims to reduce reliance on external reports, providers may still be asked to supply supporting information in more complex situations. Strong progress notes, outcome evidence, and care planning documentation will remain important.
How Budgets and Funding May Change
From a provider perspective, the new planning framework may result in:
- More flexible funding structures rather than rigid line items
- Longer plan durations, reducing frequent plan reviews
- Clearer links between assessed needs and funded supports
Some supports may continue to be funded as stated supports, while other funding may be provided through flexible budgets. Providers should ensure their billing practices, service agreements, and internal systems remain aligned with participant plans.
Participant Reviews and Provider Responsibilities
Participant review and appeal rights will remain unchanged. Participants can still request:
- An internal review of a planning decision
- An external review through the Administrative Review Tribunal if they are dissatisfied with the outcome
Participants can also request a reassessment if their circumstances or support needs change.
Providers must continue to:
- Deliver supports strictly in line with approved plans
- Maintain accurate records and evidence of service delivery
- Ensure claims comply with NDIS pricing and claiming rules
As planning rules continue to evolve, providers should stay informed and update policies, procedures, and staff training accordingly.
Preparing Your Service for the New Way of Planning
Although the new planning framework will not fully commence until mid 2026, early preparation is essential. Providers should use this time to:
- Review service delivery models and documentation
- Strengthen care planning and outcome reporting
- Train staff in goal-focused and participant-centred support delivery
- Ensure systems support flexible funding and evidence-based practice
Proactive preparation will help minimise disruption and support a smooth transition when the new framework is introduced.
Need Support to Prepare Your Service and Your Participants?
Understanding how the new NDIS planning framework may impact your business and your participants is essential for staying compliant and prepared.
Disability Compliance Australia supports NDIS providers to prepare early, including helping providers to support participants to be ready for Support Needs Assessments and outcome-focused planning.
Our Participant Services & Support Care Plan helps providers clearly document participant needs, goals, and supports in a way that aligns with the new planning framework and strengthens planning outcomes.
📞 Call us: 1800 611 661
📧 Email: contact@disabilitycompliance.com.au
👉 View our Participant Services & Support Care Plan:
[https://disabilitycompliance.com.au/products/plans/participant-services-and-support-care-plan]
👉 Book an Appointment or Training:
[https://disabilitycompliance.com.au/support]
Preparing now will support better participant outcomes, smoother planning conversations, and continued compliance as the NDIS planning changes roll out.
