NDIS Changes 2026: What You Need to Know About Funding and Planning Updates

If you or someone you care for is on the NDIS, there are some important changes happening that you should know about. We’ve broken it down in plain language so you can understand what’s already changed, what’s coming in 2026, and what it means for you. Here’s what you need to know to feel more prepared and confident. 

NDIS Changes 2025: What the New Funding Rules Mean for You 

What Are NDIS Funding Periods? 

In 2025, the NDIS introduced funding periods — a new way of releasing plan budgets. Instead of receiving your full funding at the start of your plan, your funding now comes in smaller chunks throughout the year. This can make it easier to manage your supports and avoid running out of funding too early. 

At Lumia Care, we’re already helping participants adjust to this change by working closely with support coordinators and families to track usage and plan ahead. 

New Rules Around Funding and Plan Management 

Changes to the NDIS Act also came into effect in 2025. These new rules give participants more clarity and fairness around: 

• How funding decisions are made 

• When and how you can ask for changes to your plan 

• Your rights when your needs change 

If you’re unsure what this means for your current plan, your Lumia Care support coordinator can help explain what options are available. 

NDIS Planning Framework 2026: What’s Changing and How It Affects You 

How Will the New Planning Framework Work? 

Starting mid-2026, the NDIS is introducing a new way of creating support plans. This new planning framework has been delayed slightly to give everyone time to get ready, and it will roll out gradually. 

Here’s what the new framework is aiming to improve: 

• Fairness and consistency across different planners and regions 

• More person-centred plans that reflect your goals, lifestyle and needs — not just a diagnosis 

• Less paperwork, with fewer expensive reports required 

This could make it easier to have meaningful planning conversations that actually reflect your life. 

Your Voice Matters: Public Consultation in 2026 

In 2026, there will be public consultations to hear directly from participants, carers, families and advocates. If you want to have a say in how the new rules are shaped, this is your chance. 

Lumia Care encourages all our clients to take part in this process. We’ll be sharing updates and reminders about when and how you can get involved. 

What This Means for You: NDIS Participants, Carers & Families 

Easier Budgeting, Less Stress 

Splitting your funding into periods helps you pace your supports through the year, so you don’t feel pressure to "use it or lose it". 

Clearer Planning Conversations 

The new framework means you’ll have more consistent experiences with planners. You’ll be able to clearly talk about what you need, why it matters, and how to get the right support. 

A System Built with You in Mind 

These changes have been shaped by real feedback from people living with disability and those who support them. It’s not just policy — it’s about making the system work better for you. 

How to Prepare: Steps You Can Take Now 

1. Keep Notes About Your Daily Life and Goals 
Bring this to your planning meeting — it helps you tell your story clearly. 

2. Talk to Your Support Coordinator 
Your Lumia Care coordinator can help you understand what these changes mean for your specific situation. 

3. Stay Updated With NDIA Announcements 
The NDIA is sharing regular updates, workshops, and events to help people prepare. We’ll keep you posted on these too. 

4. Practice Telling Your Story 
Planning is more than paperwork. Think about what really matters to you, what’s working, and what could be better. 

Change With Confidence 

The NDIS is evolving, and while change can be daunting, it’s also an opportunity. At Lumia Care, we’re here to help you understand what’s changing and how to navigate it confidently. 

Whether it’s new funding periods or the upcoming planning framework, we’ll support you every step of the way. 

Sources & Further Reading 

Update on the new framework planning (gradual rollout from mid 2026) 
https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10864-update-changes-ndis-new-framework-planning-starting-mid-2026 

NDIS planning reforms focused on simpler and more consistent participant plans 
https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/11024-update-new-way-planning 

Australian Government overview of NDIS planning reforms and public consultation in 2026 
https://www.health.gov.au/topics/disability-and-carers/reforms-and-reviews/new-framework-planning 

Changes to the NDIS Act and planning rules introduced in 2025 
https://www.health.gov.au/topics/disability-and-carers/reforms-and-reviews/ndis-act-changes