The 2026 NDIS law changes: a plain-English timeline

New NDIS laws received Royal Assent on 20 August 2026. The changes are being phased in over several years. For most participants, People with Disability Australia says you do not need to do anything differently right now. Here are the dates to keep in mind.

27 August 2026

Changes to how plan reassessments are requested, record keeping, and NDIA information-gathering powers.

1 October 2026

Gradual reductions begin to some Community Participation and Improved Daily Living Skills budgets, applied as plans are created, reassessed or renewed.

1 December 2026

Participants and plan managers will need to make claims within 90 days of a support being delivered.

1 February 2027

Plan renewals replace plan continuations. Money left over in a previous plan will not carry over into the renewed plan.

1 April 2027

New framework planning begins, using support needs assessments. Participants move across gradually until the end of 2030.

1 July 2027

Mandatory provider registration expands to some higher-risk supports. People receiving those supports will need to use a registered provider for them.

1 October 2027 to 1 July 2028

A panel of plan management providers begins in October 2027. A new access process starts for new applicants from 1 January 2028, and a new commissioned support coordination service begins from 1 July 2028.

If something doesn't look right

Ask the NDIA to explain any change in writing.

For most reviewable decisions, you need to ask for an internal review within 3 months of receiving the decision in writing.

The Disability Gateway (1800 643 787) can connect you with advocacy support.

Many details are still being developed, and we will update this timeline as more is confirmed.