NDIS Planning Changes Are Coming in 2026: The Ultimate Guide for Tasmanian Participants

Navigating the Next Era of the NDIS

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is a landmark Australian reform, designed to give people with disability greater choice and control over their lives. Since its inception, the Scheme has supported hundreds of thousands of Australians, but like any large system, it’s constantly being refined. One of the most significant changes since the NDIS began is now on the horizon: a new planning framework scheduled to begin in mid-2026.

This is more than just a minor update; it's a fundamental shift in how NDIS plans will be developed, how supports are approved, and how funding is managed. While these reforms will affect participants nationwide, they are particularly important for people living in Tasmania. Our unique landscape, with a mix of urban, regional, and remote communities, requires a nuanced understanding of how to navigate these changes.

Instead of waiting to see what happens, the most proactive and empowering step you can take is to prepare now. This comprehensive guide will break down the changes, explain why they're happening, and provide you with a detailed, step-by-step roadmap to get ready. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge to not just survive these changes, but to thrive within the new framework.

Part 1: The 'Why' Behind the Changes—From Vision to Reality

To understand what’s coming, it helps to look at the journey so far. When the NDIS was created, it was built on a promise of individualised support. However, after more than a decade of operation, the government and the NDIA (National Disability Insurance Agency) identified areas that needed reform. The changes are a direct response to feedback and challenges that have emerged, including:

• Inconsistency and Inequity: Many participants found that their plans and funding varied significantly based on where they lived, who their Planner was, or the quality of their reports. The new framework aims to create a more consistent and equitable system for all.

• The Sustainability of the Scheme: The NDIS has experienced rapid growth in costs, which, while reflecting a need for support, also led to concerns about the Scheme's long-term sustainability. The reforms aim to slow this growth to a more sustainable rate of around 8% annually by mid-2026, without reducing the overall support available to participants.

• A Focus on Outcomes Over Services: The current system can sometimes focus on the services provided (e.g., hours of therapy) rather than the real-world outcomes achieved (e.g., greater independence, a new job). The new framework will place a much stronger emphasis on a participant's goals and how their supports help them achieve those goals.

• Simplified Navigation: For many, the NDIS has been complex and difficult to navigate. The new framework is intended to be simpler and more transparent, with clearer rules and definitions for what is considered "reasonable and necessary."

The NDIS Review, released in late 2023, was a pivotal moment, and its recommendations form the blueprint for these upcoming changes. By mid-2026, the new planning framework will begin its gradual rollout, starting with new participants and those with scheduled plan reviews. You can read the official government response and reports from the NDIS Review on the NDIS Review website to verify this information directly.

Part 2: What Exactly is Changing in 2026? A Detailed Breakdown

While the full details are still being finalised, several key changes are expected to be at the heart of the new framework. The term "new planning framework" refers to a shift away from the traditional Core, Capital, and Capacity Building budget categories towards a more streamlined approach with Flexible and Stated budgets.

The Move to Flexible and Stated Funding

• Flexible Budgets: This is where you’ll see the biggest change. Flexible funding can be used for any NDIS-approved support within a broad category, giving you more choice and control. For example, your current "Core" budget might be split into different lines for daily living, social, and transport supports. Under the new system, these may be combined into a single flexible budget for "Daily Life and Community Supports." This means you could use your funds more fluidly—perhaps spending more on a community activity one month and less on transport the next, as long as it aligns with your overall goals.

• Stated Budgets: This funding is tied to specific, higher-cost supports that require a specific provider or item. This could include things like a specialised wheelchair, home modifications, or one-off therapy blocks. Stated funding is designed for supports that are clearly defined and critical to your needs.

Key Reforms and How They Will Impact You

Beyond the budget structure, here's a look at other major changes you need to be aware of:

1. A New Approach to Plan Reviews: The new system is expected to feature a more consistent review process. The NDIA will focus on the evidence you provide about your progress and outcomes, rather than just the services you use. This means a shift from reactive reviews (e.g., because your funding is running out) to a more proactive, goal-oriented process. You may also see longer plan periods, giving you more stability and less administrative burden.

2. Evidence is Everything: The concept of "reasonable and necessary" supports is being refined. In the new framework, the NDIA will place a stronger emphasis on evidence to justify your funding requests. This isn't just about a doctor's diagnosis; it's about showing how your supports help you live a better, more independent life. This is where your preparation will be most critical. You will need to provide reports, goals, and records that clearly demonstrate the value of your supports.

3. The Role of Support Coordinators and Providers: Support Coordinators will have a crucial role in helping participants understand the new framework and prepare for their plan reviews. Registered providers will need to adapt their service agreements and reporting to align with the new budget structures and outcomes-focused approach.

Part 3: The Tasmanian Context—Why This Matters for You

For people living in Tasmania, the NDIS has its own unique set of challenges and opportunities. Our state is known for its strong community ties, but also for its geographical diversity. From the major hubs of Hobart and Launceston to the more isolated regional and remote areas, access to supports can vary.

The new planning framework could have a specific impact on Tasmanians in the following ways:

• Regional and Remote Access: The new focus on flexible funding and telehealth could be a game-changer for people in remote communities. Instead of being restricted by a rigid budget for a specific service that isn't available locally, you may be able to use your flexible budget to access a wider range of online or itinerant supports.

• Telehealth and Technology: Tasmania's geography makes telehealth an essential tool. The new framework is expected to make it easier to justify and fund telehealth supports, such as online therapy sessions or virtual group activities, which can bridge the gap in access.

• Local Provider Relationships: The strong emphasis on evidence will require close collaboration with your local providers. The right providers, like SeeCureDisability, are already preparing for these changes, ensuring they can help you gather the necessary evidence and articulate your goals in a way that aligns with the new framework. You can verify a provider's registration status at any time using the NDIS Commission's Provider Register.

Part 4: Your Action Plan—7 Steps to Prepare for 2026 Now

Waiting until the new framework is live is a recipe for stress and potential disruption. The best time to prepare is today. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to get you ready.

Step 1: Get to Know Your Current Plan

Your current plan is the foundation for your transition. Take the time to understand exactly what you have now.

• What supports do you use most?

• Which supports are essential for your daily life?

• Are there any supports you don't use or that aren't working?

• Review the goals in your current plan. Are they still relevant? Have you achieved any of them?

Step 2: Start a "Goals and Outcomes" Journal

This is a simple but powerful tool. The NDIA will be looking for evidence of outcomes, not just a list of services.

• Keep a diary or a file on your computer.

• For each support, jot down a few notes: How did it help you this week? What new skill did you learn? Did it help you feel more connected to your community? Did it reduce your need for support?

• Example: Instead of "Used support worker for 2 hours," write, "Support worker helped me organise my kitchen, which made it easier to cook dinner. This helps me be more independent."

Step 3: Collect and Organise Your Evidence

This is the most critical step. Your evidence is your voice in the new system.

• Gather all your reports:

  • Therapist Reports: Ask your physiotherapist, occupational therapist, speech pathologist, or psychologist for a progress report. Make sure it highlights your goals and the outcomes you have achieved.

  • Medical Reports: Keep letters from your GP or specialists that support your need for specific supports.

  • Support Worker Notes: Ask your provider for a summary of how your supports have helped you achieve your goals.

• Keep a digital and a physical copy of everything. Create a file on your computer and an organised folder for hard copies.

Step 4: Think About Your Future Goals

The new framework is highly goal-oriented. Before your next plan review, think about what you want to achieve over the next two to five years.

• Focus on the big picture: Do you want to find a job? Live more independently? Participate in a club or activity? Learn a new skill?

• Make your goals specific and measurable. A good goal isn't "get better at walking," but rather "Walk unassisted for 50 metres by December 2026."

Step 5: Talk to Your Provider and Support Coordinator

This is where your provider becomes your partner. Use them as a resource.

• Ask them:

  • "How are you preparing for the 2026 changes?"

  • "Can you help me document my progress towards my goals?"

  • "What kind of evidence will the NDIA need from me under the new framework?"

• Choosing a provider who is knowledgeable and proactive about these changes is key. For example, a provider like SeeCureDisability is committed to helping participants navigate these reforms.

Step 6: Stay Informed Through Official Channels

Don’t rely on hearsay. The best source of information is the NDIA itself and trusted disability advocacy organisations.

• Sign up for the NDIS newsletters directly from the official NDIS website.

• Follow official NDIS social media channels.

• Attend webinars and information sessions. Many advocacy groups and providers will be hosting these in the coming months.

Step 7: Reassess Your Service Agreements

As the new framework rolls out, your service agreements with providers will likely need to be updated. Make sure you understand the new terms, especially regarding flexible and stated funding.

Part 5: Common Questions and Answers

With big changes come big questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones you might have:

Q: Will my NDIS plan be cut? A: The goal of the reforms is not to cut funding but to ensure it is allocated fairly and consistently. While some individual budgets may change, the overall aim is to make the Scheme more sustainable and equitable, not to reduce the quality or amount of support for people with significant needs.

Q: Do I need to do anything now if my plan review isn’t until 2026? A: Yes. The preparation you do now—collecting evidence, documenting outcomes, and defining your goals—will make your future plan review much smoother and more successful. This is not a "wait-and-see" situation.

Q: What if I can’t get the evidence I need from my doctors? A: Start by having an open conversation with your healthcare providers. Explain that the NDIA is moving to an outcomes-based model and that their reports are crucial. Many will be happy to help. You can also work with your support coordinator or provider to gather other types of evidence, like a progress journal.

Part 6: More Resources for Tasmanians

The changes are national, but a local support network is invaluable. Here are some trusted resources you can use to stay informed and get help:

• The NDIS Website: This is your primary source for all official announcements, news, and information about the Scheme. You can also use the Provider Finder tool here to find and verify registered NDIS providers.

• NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission: This is the regulatory body for the NDIS. Their website provides information on quality standards and the NDIS Code of Conduct. If you have concerns about a provider, this is the place to go.

• Disability Advocacy Tasmania: Offers free, independent advocacy services for Tasmanians with disability. They can provide support and advice on navigating the NDIS. Their contact details can be found on their official website.

• Speak Out Advocacy: A statewide, independent organisation that supports and represents people with disability. They have offices in Hobart, Launceston, and Burnie.

• Association for Children with Disability Tasmania (ACDTAS): This organisation provides information, support, and peer networks for parents and children with disability.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your NDIS Journey

The upcoming NDIS planning changes in 2026 are significant, but they don't have to be a source of anxiety. By understanding the reasons behind the reforms and taking proactive steps to prepare, you can ensure a seamless transition. The new framework's focus on goals and outcomes is an opportunity to show the NDIA just how valuable your supports are and how they contribute to a full and meaningful life.

Remember, the power is in your hands. The more you prepare, the more confident you'll feel when it’s time for your plan review. Your journey is unique, and with the right support, you can make sure your NDIS plan reflects your individual needs and aspirations.

At SeeCureDisability, we believe in empowering our participants to navigate these changes with clarity and confidence. We are here to partner with you every step of the way, helping you document your progress, articulate your goals, and secure the supports you need to live the life you choose.

If you’d like support in reviewing your plan, preparing for the new framework, or simply want to learn more, contact our team today—we’re here to help.