NDIS changes and Intellectual disability

Stable Updated 2026-05-07

Intellectual disability is one of the most stable cohorts under the April 2026 reforms. Participants with intellectual disability typically have clear, demonstrable functional needs — exactly what the new assessment framework is designed to recognise. Significant changes to this cohort's NDIS access are unlikely.

What this means for your situation

Intellectual disability generates clear and consistent functional evidence — difficulties with communication, daily living tasks, decision-making, and social functioning that are unlikely to fluctuate. The new functional capacity assessment framework should reflect these needs clearly. The main area of attention is for participants with mild intellectual disability whose current plans focus on lower-intensity supports.

What determines your risk

— Strong functional evidence base — supports the new assessment framework well
— High-support participants are very low risk
— Mild intellectual disability with lower-intensity plans warrants monitoring
— SIL and SDA funding for people with intellectual disability is not under direct threat

Support lines under scrutiny

→ Lower-intensity social participation supports (mild ID, monitor only)

What to do now

1. Ensure your support needs are documented in functional terms — daily tasks, not just IQ scores

2. Review your plan to confirm it reflects your current support needs accurately

3. If you support someone with mild ID on a social participation-focused plan, seek an OT assessment

4. Use the check tool for a personalised read on your specific situation

Get a personalised read in 5 minutes.

The check tool asks 8 questions about your specific plan, support types, and situation — not just your diagnosis. You'll get a clear risk assessment plus a printable roadmap.

Start the check →

Frequently asked

Are people with intellectual disability at risk of losing NDIS?

Generally no. Intellectual disability creates clear, demonstrable functional needs that align well with what the new assessments will measure. Participants with significant support needs are very unlikely to be affected. Those with mild intellectual disability on lower-intensity plans should monitor developments.

Will the new functional capacity assessment be fair for people who struggle with testing?

This is a legitimate concern and one actively raised by disability advocates. The NDIA has said the assessment design will account for people who struggle with formal assessment settings. The assessment tool is not yet finalised — advocacy groups are pressing for safeguards on this point.

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 Cerebral palsy 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