How to prepare for NDIS changes as a support coordinator

As the NDIS has been rolling out some significant changes over the past year, it’s essential for us to be well-prepared. These shifts may have brought a mix of anticipation and uncertainty, but with the right approach, we can navigate them smoothly.

Preparing for NDIS changes as a support coordinator involves adaptability, communication and collaboration. Keeping up to date with any changes, learning to implement them into your strategies and keeping your participants informed is key to seamless transitions. Remember, advocating for your clients is still paramount with any changes that transpire.

As our dynamic landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for us to stay one step ahead and prepare ourselves to embrace these changes so we can continue improving support coordination for our NDIS participants.

What changes are coming for the NDIS?

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is in the midst of some significant changes aimed at making it work better and last longer. Proposed changes include needs-based assessments, longer plan durations, and clearer definitions of what “NDIS support” really means. These adjustments are about making processes smoother, spending money wisely, and meeting participants evolving needs.

Despite challenges, these NDIS reforms present an opportunity for a more supportive and inclusive future, as long as we can implement them honestly and emphatically. Embracing dialogue and cooperation, we can collectively work towards refining the NDIS and empowering people living with disabilities to thrive in society.

NDIS Cost Growth Cap

Last year’s unveiling of the NDIS Financial Sustainability Framework has worried a lot of us, especially those relying on NDIS funding. The framework puts a cap on NDIS growth at 8% per year starting from July 2026, alongside a hefty $720 million investment in the NDIA.

While this cap is aimed at ensuring NDIS sustainability, it has some of us concerned about whether the quality of support and accessibility to funding will be compromised. However, there are some great points mentioned too, such as better decision-making and crackdown on fraud. So while there’s some uncertainty, ensuring transparency and participant-centric decision-making means we can help build trust in the system’s sustainability.

Federal Budget

The 2024 Federal Budget introduced significant cost-saving measures to the NDIS, aiming to save $14.4 billion over four years, which may compromise the quality and accessibility of supports for over 600,000 Australians with disabilities.

Key changes include a 10% increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance and more funds for disability employment programs, but no increase for Disability Support Pension. A new NDIS Evidence Advisory Committee receives $45.5 million, yet reforms could limit support flexibility.

The budget’s shift towards state services for less severe disabilities and tightening funding approvals risk reducing essential services, potentially undermining the NDIS’s mission to empower people with disabilities. Read more about the Federal Budget changes in our blog.

Proposed Reform

Why do support coordinators need to prepare for NDIS changes?

As support coordinators, we have to be on the ball when it comes to providing top-quality support for our participants, especially in light of evolving policies, procedures and regulations. By staying informed and proactive, support coordinators can adapt their strategies and services to meet the changing needs and requirements of participants within the current framework.

As support coordinators, we must maintain compliance with NDIS guidelines and advocate for the rights and interests of participants. Ultimately, if we effectively prepare for any NDIS changes that come our way, we can better fulfil our roles as advocates and facilitators of participant choice, autonomy and well-being.