5 New Planning Framework (from mid-2026) The Australian Government has confirmed that a new planning framework for adult NDIS participants will begin rolling out gradually from mid-2026. This new approach focuses on a person-centred assessment of support needs, aiming to better match supports to each participant’s circumstances. The rollout will be staged, and most people will not notice immediate changes. Updated Definition of NDIS Supports The NDIS has introduced a clearer definition of what can and cannot be funded. This applies to all participants, including those with existing plans. Key points: • Participants must use their NDIS funding only for items that meet the definition of an NDIS support. • The NDIS has also published examples of supports it will not fund. • In some situations, participants may be able to substitute one support for another if it meets the rules. • You can read the full guidance on the NDIS website: https://www.ndis.gov.au/understanding/supportsfunded-ndis#what-is-an-ndis-support These changes are designed to make funding decisions clearer and more consistent. Funding and Budget Changes As part of the 2026 reforms, the NDIS will introduce a new funding structure. This will replace the current Core, Capacity Building and Capital categories. What’s changing: • Plans will include flexible funding (which can be used across a range of approved supports) and stated funding (allocated for specific supports). • Funding will be organised into funding periods, usually around 3 months, to help participants manage their budget across the life of their plan. • Some supports may be paid in monthly, quarterly or upfront instalments, depending on the type of support. • Plans may cover longer time periods, meaning fewer plan reviews. • Participants can still request a reassessment if their situation changes. How this affects participants: • These changes will apply only when a new plan is approved under the updated rules. • Existing plans will continue unchanged until a new plan is issued. Each plan will clearly show: · the total funding amount · the funding components · the funding periods • Participants will need to manage their spending so their funding lasts for the full funding period. Support At Home Monthly Statement Each month, you will receive a Support At Home Monthly Statement. This document provides a clear summary of your funding, the services you’ve received, and how your budget is tracking. 1. Key Information at the Top of Your Statement At the beginning of your statement, you will find important details including: • Statement period (e.g. 1 January to 31 January) • Your Customer ID and Participant ID • Your Support At Home classification (e.g. transitioned Home Care Package Level 2) • Your Care Coordinator • You will also see a note confirming: “This is not an invoice – no payment is required.” This means the statement is for information only. Any contributions you need to pay will be invoiced separately. 2. Understanding Your Budget Summary Quarterly Budget Your funding is often shown as a quarterly budget rather than monthly. This is the total funding available for your care over a 3-month period. Available Budget This section shows how much funding you have available for services: • Includes any carry-over from previous periods • Shows how much is allocated for ongoing services Expenses This Month This shows how much of your funding has been used during the month. Remaining Balance This is your unspent funding at the end of the month. This amount carries forward and can be used later in the quarter. 3. Home Care Package Unspent Funds If you have transitioned from a Home Care Package, your statement may also show: • Home Care Package Unspent Funds • Monthly adjustments (expenses and closing balance) • This is separate from your new Support At Home budget but still available for your care. 4. Additional Funding (If Applicable) You may see extra funding for specific purposes, such as: • Assistive Technology • Restorative Care • Home Modifications These funds usually have specific rules and timeframes for use. 5. Detailed Breakdown of Services This is the most detailed section of your statement and shows exactly what services you received. Each entry includes: • Date of service • Type of service (e.g. personal care, domestic assistance, social support) • Hours or units delivered • Hourly rate • Government contribution • Your contribution (if applicable) • Total cost Service Categories Services are grouped into categories such as: • Independence (e.g. personal care, social support) • Everyday Living (e.g. cleaning) • Each category includes a subtotal so you can see where your funding is being used. 6. What to Check Each Month To make the most of your statement, review the following: ✔ Services Delivered • Do the dates and services match what you received? • Are the hours accurate? ✔ Costs and Rates • Do the charges align with your agreed pricing? • Are there any unexpected services? ✔ Budget Usage • Are you using your funding as planned? • Do you have a high remaining balance that could be used for more support? ✔ Contributions • Check if any client contributions are listed. • You will be invoiced for these separately from your Support at Home Statement. • The invoiced amount may differ from what is shown on your Support at Home Statement due to any applied adjustments or refunds. 7. Key Takeaways • Your statement is a record of services and spending, not a bill • It helps you track your budget and plan your care • Regular review ensures accuracy and value for money • Any concerns should be raised with your care coordinator or provider Need Help? • Any concerns should be raised with your Care Coordinator Join NDIS - Participant First When you join the Participant First Engagement initiative you will help improve National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) policies, services, templates, communication and more. You need to be 18 years or older to join. Child representatives are welcome to join. When you join you will receive a regular electronic newsletter. The Participant First Engagement Initiative is open to participants, their families and carers, and other people interested in the NDIS. The electronic newsletter includes invitations to provide feedback, complete surveys, join focus groups or take part in interviews. You can choose which ones you want to take part in. To take part in engagement activities you must be a Participant First member.To register follow the prompts in the link below: myform.ndis.gov.au/?src=https://forms.ndis.gov.au/ external/participantfirstinformationform NDIS Reforms: What’s Changing and What It Means for You
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