Reform explainer
NDIS plan review 2026 — what's actually changing
Short answer: your next plan review probably uses the current rules. The new functional capacity assessment framework doesn't kick in until 2028 at the earliest — but how you prepare has already changed.
The 30-second version
- Reviews in 2026 and 2027 use current criteria — no new assessment tool yet.
- The new functional capacity assessment is expected from 2028.
- But planners are already applying more scrutiny to social participation supports.
- Strong functional evidence for every support line is your best protection now.
- You have full appeal rights if your plan is reduced.
The two stages you need to know about
Current rules apply
Plan reviews use existing eligibility criteria. The shift in political messaging — and the increased media attention on NDIS cost — means some planners are applying more scrutiny to discretionary supports. Functional evidence for every support line matters more now than it did two years ago.
New FCA framework phases in
As participants reach their plan review cycle from 2028 onwards, the new functional capacity assessment tool will be used. This changes how eligibility is assessed — from diagnosis-led to function-led. Your evidence base needs to be ready well before this.
What to bring to your plan review — now
Current functional assessments
OT reports, physiotherapy assessments, speech pathology reports — ideally from the last 12 months. Reports that describe what you cannot do, not just what condition you have.
Functional impact statements from your treating team
Ask your doctor, psychiatrist, or psychologist to write a statement that describes how your condition affects specific everyday tasks — not just a diagnosis letter.
Evidence for every support line
For each funded support, document why you need it, how often, what it enables, and what happens when it's unavailable. The more specific the better.
Your support diary
A record of what support you use each day, what tasks required assistance, and any days where supports were unavailable and what that meant for your functioning.
Your previous plan and goals
Show progress against previous goals and why continued support is necessary. Where goals haven't been met, explain why and what additional support would help.
Support types under closer scrutiny
The government's stated focus is on social and community participation supports and lower-intensity capacity building. If your plan includes these, build particularly strong functional evidence:
- Social and community participation (core supports)
- Capacity building — social and community participation category
- Lower-intensity daily life capacity building
- Support coordination for participants with lower-complexity plans
High-intensity daily activities, personal care, specialist equipment, home modifications, SIL and SDA are not the primary target of the reforms.
Get a personalised risk read in 5 minutes
The check tool asks about your specific support types, plan size, and diagnosis to give you a clear read on your exposure level — plus a printable preparation roadmap.
Start the check →Your rights at plan review
If your plan is reduced or supports are removed at your next review, you have legal rights:
Request within 3 months of the decision. The NDIA reviews the decision internally. Free to access.
If internal review is unsuccessful, appeal within 28 days. Independent tribunal. Free disability advocates available.
Free legal assistance is available in every state and territory for NDIS-related matters.
Frequently asked
Will my plan be reviewed under the new rules in 2026?
No. The new functional capacity assessment framework is not expected to be operational until 2028. Plans coming up for review in 2026 and 2027 will be assessed under current criteria. The new rules phase in from 2028 as participants reach their natural plan review cycle.
What happens at my next plan review under the current rules?
Your plan is reviewed against your current support needs using existing criteria — diagnosis-based eligibility plus "reasonable and necessary" supports. Bring your most current functional assessments, evidence of how your supports are working, and any new support needs that have emerged.
Will the NDIA reduce my plan at review because of the reforms?
The NDIA cannot reduce your plan simply because reforms have been announced — reductions require evidence that your needs have decreased. However, planners may apply greater scrutiny to some support types, particularly social and community participation. Strong functional evidence for every line item in your plan is your best protection.
What evidence should I bring to a plan review?
Current OT and allied health reports (ideally from the last 12 months), a functional impact statement from your treating professionals, documentation of how each support enables specific daily tasks, and evidence of what happens when supports are unavailable. Frame everything in terms of what you can and cannot do — not just what conditions you have.
Can I request a plan review before my scheduled review?
Yes — you can request a review if your situation has changed significantly. If you believe the reforms will affect your next scheduled review, it may be worth timing a review before 2028 to lock in a plan under current criteria. Discuss timing with your plan manager or support coordinator.
What are my rights if my plan is reduced at review?
You have the right to request an internal review within 3 months of the decision. If the internal review is unsuccessful, you can appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal within 28 days. Free disability advocates and legal aid are available throughout this process.
How do I prepare my treating professionals for the new framework?
Ask your OT, psychologist, or other professionals to write reports in functional outcome language — describing what you cannot do in everyday life, how often you need support, and what the consequences are when support is unavailable. Avoid reports that focus only on diagnosis; the new framework requires functional evidence.
Information current as of 7 May 2026. Rules are subject to change as legislation is finalised. This is general information, not legal or financial advice. For advice specific to your situation, speak to your plan manager, support coordinator, or a free disability advocate. Full disclaimer