NDIS changes and Cerebral palsy

Stable Updated 2026-05-07

People with cerebral palsy are among the lowest-risk cohorts under the April 2026 reforms. CP produces clear, objective functional limitations in mobility, communication, and daily living — exactly what the new functional capacity assessments are designed to capture. NDIS access for this group is not under significant threat.

What this means for your situation

Cerebral palsy is a lifelong, non-progressive physical disability with consistent, well-documented functional impact. The shift to functional capacity assessments should work in favour of this cohort — the supports required (mobility equipment, personal care, communication aids, physiotherapy) are directly tied to measurable functional limitations. The reform concerns are primarily about episodic or fluctuating conditions, not CP.

What determines your risk

— Clear, consistent functional evidence — strong position under new assessments
— Physical and communication supports have clear functional justification
— Capital supports (wheelchair, AAC, home modifications) are not targeted
— Virtually no scenario under which CP participants lose eligibility

No specific support lines are under direct threat for this condition. The key risk is the eligibility assessment process itself — ensure your functional evidence is strong.

What to do now

1. No urgent action required — maintain current documentation practices

2. Ensure your OT and physio reports reflect current functional needs, not outdated assessments

3. Continue engaging with your plan manager normally

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Frequently asked

Will people with cerebral palsy be affected by the 2026 NDIS changes?

Very unlikely. Cerebral palsy produces clear, consistent functional limitations that align directly with what the new assessment framework measures. The April 2026 reforms are primarily concerned with conditions where the functional impact is harder to demonstrate or where mainstream services could reasonably meet the need — this does not describe CP.

What about CP-related equipment and home modifications?

Capital supports and assistive technology are not a focus of the reform. Mobility equipment, communication devices, and home modifications are supported by clear functional need and are not under threat.

What's happening in your state

New South Wales → Victoria → Queensland → Western Australia → South Australia → Tasmania → Australian Capital Territory → Northern Territory →

Other conditions

Autism (ASD) Psychosocial disability Intellectual disability Acquired brain injury (ABI) Multiple sclerosis (MS) Down syndrome ADHD Spinal cord injury (SCI) Physical disability Vision impairment Hearing impairment / Deafness

Information current as of 2026-05-07. Rules are subject to change as legislation is finalised. This page is general information, not legal or clinical advice. For advice on your specific situation, talk to your plan manager, support coordinator, or a free disability advocate. Full disclaimer