15 May 2026
Yesterday, the Government introduced legislation proposing major changes to the NDIS.
The Bill includes more detail about the Government’s NDIS reform plans announced in April. It outlines proposed changes to how people access the Scheme, what supports can be funded and how decisions are made.
We know many people in our community are worried about what these changes could mean for them and their families.
In our DSA Consortium response to Securing the NDIS, we outlined our support for some measures that strengthen the sustainability of the Scheme. At the same time, we remain very concerned about a number of proposed changes that could restrict access to supports and reduce choice and control for people with disability.
Importantly, we still do not have the full picture. Some details will also be decided later through additional rules that have not yet been released.
Nothing has changed yet for individual plans or supports. We will continue to keep our community informed as more detail becomes available.
What does the legislation include?
We are currently reviewing the legislation and its potential impact on people with Down syndrome and intellectual disability.
The proposed changes we are particularly concerned about include:
- cuts to social and community participation and capacity building supports
- changes to the definition of reasonable and necessary supports
- changes to who can access the NDIS, including new requirements to try treatment options before accessing the NDIS
- broader powers for the Minister and NDIA that may reduce participant choice and control
What happens next?
The legislation will now go to a Senate Inquiry.
We are concerned about the short timeframe for consultation. However, the DSA Consortium and other Disability Representative Organisations will continue engaging in this process and advocating for the rights and needs of people with disability.
We will continue sharing updates as we learn more about the proposed changes and the progress of the Inquiry.
If you are feeling distressed by this news, please reach out for support:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
- Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
- 13YARN – 13 92 76
Text and online chat options are also available through these services.