Explaining the changes made to the NDIS

The NDIS is changing. If you are an NDIS participant, or you care for a loved one with a disability, there are important changes to Australia’s disability scheme that you should be aware of. We’ve summarised some of what’s happening in this article, but we recommend you check the NDIS website for the latest information on what’s changed in the NDIS legislation.

What’s changing?

In August, the Parliament passed new laws in relation to the NDIS. These new laws came into effect from 3 October 2024, and changes will be announced throughout the next 12 months.

A key change in the new rules is the new definition of NDIS supports, which makes it clear what your NDIS funding can and cannot cover. To make it easy to understand the changes, the Government has released lists for what is funded and what is not funded.

Use the links below to download the NDIS Easy English documents of these lists:

• Easy Read – Supports that are NDIS supports (PDF 6.2MB)
• Easy Read – Supports that are not NDIS supports (PDF 3.8MB)
• Easy Read – Replacement supports (PDF 2.7MB)

From now on, you can only use your NDIS funds for items listed as NDIS supports – as decided by the Government.

When are the changes taking place?

The first changes were rolled out from 3 October 2024, but there will be more changes over the next 12 months. Check the NDIS website regularly or speak with your Northcott Customer Partner to keep up to date with any changes that impact you.

It’s understandable that it may take some time to understand the changes. If you make a mistake and buy supports that are not NDIS supports, the NDIA will work with you to help you understand the new rules and access supports that are NDIS supports.

Why is the Government making changes?

On 7 December 2023, the Government released its Final Report into the NDIS Review. This report contained 26 recommendations and 139 actions aimed at making the NDIS better for people with disability. The recommendations and actions are also designed to make the scheme more sustainable, transparent and fair.

The changes that are coming into effect over the next 12 months are in response to this Final Report.

We’re here to help!

Northcott is a recognised disability services provider with nearly 95 years of experience supporting children and adults with disability. Our staff are experts in the NDIS and work with customers across all age groups and disabilities to enable them to access services and supports to live the life they choose.

Contact us today to discuss your NDIS funding and supports.