October 3, 2024, is a significant day for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), bringing substantial legislative reforms. These changes are part of the government’s effort to strengthen the NDIS and improve the experience for people with disabilities. However, the lack of clarity around some of these reforms has understandably caused concern and confusion for many participants and their families.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key changes and what they mean for you as an NDIS participant.
So, What’s Happening on October 3?
This is the day the new legislation takes effect. The government has described these as the most significant changes to the NDIS since it began, aimed at making the scheme stronger and more effective for participants.
While some reforms will happen immediately, much of the information about their practical impact remains vague. We know the changes will affect key areas such as:
- How eligibility is assessed
- The supports funded by the NDIS
- How plans are managed
- How funding is allocated and spent
- Information gathering requirements for eligibility reassessment.
How the NDIS Reforms Will Affect You
1. New Definition of NDIS Supports
One of the most crucial changes is the new definition of what the NDIS will fund. From October 3, the NDIS will only fund supports directly related to the impairments specified in your access request. This means you’ll need to be more mindful of how you spend your funds to ensure they align with these updated guidelines.
A detailed list of what is and isn’t covered will be released, but only a draft is available for now. This list will need a careful review once finalised to avoid issues with spending. Depending on the outcome, you may need to reassess how you access services and equipment to ensure compliance.
2. Total Budget Amounts
From October 3, all new NDIS plans will include a total budget amount, replacing the current individual line items for supports. While this may simplify understanding your total funding, it also places greater responsibility on you to manage the budget wisely.
Participants will be able to access a portion of their budget, known as a “funding period.” The frequency and amount of these periods will depend on personal preference, support frequency, and risk. Any unused funds within a funding period will roll over to the next, but unspent funds won’t roll over into new plans.
If you’re not satisfied with your budget or funding period, you can request a review.
3. Plan Management Decisions
The NDIA will now have the authority to intervene and change how your plan is managed if they believe your funds are not being used appropriately. They will review whether funds have been spent on NDIS supports, whether they align with the participant’s plan, and whether there is any unreasonable risk.
Participants or nominees with major criminal convictions or fraud-related offences may also have their plans automatically switched to NDIA-managed.
4. New Claims and Payments Framework
Starting on October 3, all claims for services must be submitted within two years of the support being provided. While claims for services before this date will still be honoured within the first year, claims older than two years won’t be accepted after October 2025.
This change means participants and providers must stay on top of invoicing to avoid rejected payments.
5. Impairment Notices
From January 1 2025, new NDIS participants will receive an “impairment notice” confirming their permanent disability or significant impairment. Existing participants will receive this notice when they transition to a new plan.
There are six impairment categories in the NDIS Act: intellectual, cognitive, sensory, neurological, physical, and psychosocial. This notice will specify which categories apply to you. If you disagree with the impairment listed, you can request a review.
6. Information Requests and Revoking Plans
The NDIA can revoke participant status if they deem it necessary. In such cases, they may request specific information or additional assessments. If you don’t comply within a “reasonable time,” they may revoke your access to the NDIS. If you need more time, it’s crucial to request an extension immediately.
Navigating These Changes Together
We understand just the thought of these NDIS reforms can be overwhelming, especially when many details still need to be clarified. The government has announced the changes, but some of the finer points are still under development, leaving many participants uncertain.
We’re committed to helping you navigate this new landscape. Our team is closely monitoring developments and will continue to share updates as soon as they become available. While the reforms aim to strengthen the NDIS, we know that adjusting to these changes might be challenging for many.
Our goal is to help you feel prepared and supported throughout this transition. Keep an eye on our website for the latest information and tools to guide you through these updates. Together, we’ll make sure your NDIS plan continues to work for you.
What You Can Do Now to Prepare
- Review your plan and how you’re spending your funding. Do your supports align with the new definitions and do they fit ‘the list’?
- Keep informed. Whether getting your updates directly from NDIS or from us, it’s important to know what what changes are expected and when they come into effect.
- Reach out to your support coordinator. They are a wealth of knowledge and can help you set your mind at ease.
Final Thoughts
Change can be challenging, especially when there are still many unknowns. However, staying informed and proactive can make all the difference. We’ll be with you every step of the way, so you don’t have to face these changes alone.
For more information or assistance with your NDIS experience, please reach out to our friendly Intake and Engagement Team at 1800 262 245 or fill out our service request form.
