The Australian Government is introducing a new way of developing NDIS plans, called new framework planning.
The new planning approach will begin with a small number of participants from mid‑2026, and it will be introduced gradually over several years. Many people won’t see any changes for quite some time.
This new approach is being introduced to make NDIS plans fairer, more consistent, and easier to use. It follows recommendations from the recent NDIS Review, which included extensive feedback from people with disability, families, carers, and providers.
What You Need to Know Right Now
Here are the most important points for the people we support:
- You don’t need to do anything yet.
- Your current NDIS plan will stay the same until you are invited to move to the new planning process.
- You will receive clear information from the NDIA before anything changes for you.
What Is a Support Needs Assessment?
A key part of the new framework is a support needs assessment.
This will be:
- A guided conversation with a trained NDIS assessor
- A chance for participants to explain their support needs in their own words
- A way to make sure the NDIS has accurate information to build a fairer, more flexible budget
It’s important to know that NDIS plans will still be approved by trained NDIS staff, not by automated systems or computers.
Benefits for The People We Support
The new approach aims to make planning fairer, clearer, and more personal. Benefits include:
- More time with a trained assessor to explain your needs
- A simpler and easier to use plan
- A plan that is more flexible, so your funding can better adapt to your needs
- Clearer rules, leading to more consistent decision-making
- The continued right to ask for a review of your NDIS plan, including external reviews through the Administrative Review Tribunal
A System Informed Through Dialogue
The policy-makers for the NDIS – the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing – are currently working with the NDIA, stage governments, and people with disability to develop the rules that will guide the new planning process.
These rules will explain:
- How the new planning process works
- What NDIS participants can expect
- The rights and responsibilities of everyone involved
How Sylvanvale Will Support You
We’re here to support you along this journey. Change can be stressful, but you can rest assured that we will keep you updated as these changes roll out. We will also work closely with allied health professionals, support coordinators, and plan nominees to ensure your support needs are communicated clearly.
If you require extra support or want to talk about what these changes will mean for you, please feel free to reach out to us:
Email: customers@sylvanvale.com.au
Phone: 1300 244 577