3 October NDIS legislation changes

NDIS support lists

Starting 3 October 2024, NDIS funds can only be used for approved NDIS supports or their designated replacements. 

The Government has introduced a new, clear list of NDIS supports that outlines what the scheme will and won’t cover. Since this list was developed based on feedback from participants, it’s unlikely that the supports participants are currently using will be affected.

A one-year transition period will be in place to help participants understand the new guidelines, with additional assistance available for those who mistakenly claim for items no longer covered by their funding.

Substitution or replacement support 

A substitution rule has been written to allow participants to request replacing an existing NDIS support with a non-NDIS support, if the alternative option is likely to deliver better outcomes and value than the standard NDIS support.

This is only an option in specific circumstances. A full list of replacements is available online. 

NDIS funding and plans

From 3 October, new plans will include a total budget, specific funding amounts, and funding periods. This change will make it clear how much funding is available and how long it needs to last. You won’t be able to spend more than what’s in your plan. 

Initially, all new plans will be for 12 months or less, but in the future, most plans will last longer. The NDIS will communicate with participants before this happens.