What was actually announced on 22 April 2026
On 22 April 2026, Health Minister Mark Butler announced significant changes to NDIS eligibility. This is what’s been confirmed publicly, and what remains unclear.
What was announced
The government confirmed it will introduce standardised functional capacity assessments as the new gateway to NDIS eligibility. The core idea: whether someone qualifies for the NDIS will depend less on their diagnosis and more on how their disability affects their ability to carry out daily life.
Around 160,000 participants are expected to move off the scheme over the coming years. The government’s stated position is that some current participants have needs that can be better met by state and territory mainstream services.
The ‘Thriving Kids’ pathway was specifically named — children and young people will be reviewed under a dedicated part of the reform.
Social and community participation funding was identified as an area under review.
What’s still being decided
The actual eligibility criteria have not been published. The new assessment tool is expected to be ready no earlier than 2028.
- How functional capacity will be measured is not finalised
- What “mainstream services” will replace current NDIS supports is not confirmed
- Transition arrangements for affected participants are not detailed
- Appeals and review processes under the new system are unknown
What this means for you
If you’re currently on the NDIS, nothing changes right now. Your current plan remains in place. The changes will be introduced gradually as the new assessment tool is developed and participants come up for plan review.
The most useful things you can do now:
- Talk to your plan manager or support coordinator about what these announcements might mean for your specific situation
- Document your support needs clearly and in detail — this will matter when functional capacity assessments begin
- Stay informed — sign up for updates below and we’ll send clear summaries as the rules are developed
Sources
- ABC News, 22 April 2026
- Minister Butler’s press release, Department of Health and Aged Care
- NDIA public communications
Update — 12 May 2026 federal budget: The budget confirmed $36.2 billion in four-year NDIS savings, $3 billion for foundational supports, $4 billion for Thriving Kids starting October 2026, and a participant number target of 600,000 by 2030 (down from ~760,000). The functional capacity assessment tool remains on track for 2028. Legislation targeting unscheduled reassessments was introduced in the same week.
Information current as of 12 May 2026. Rules are subject to change. This is not official advice.
This article is based on publicly announced information and is for general information only — not official guidance. NDIS reform rules are still being finalised and are subject to change. For advice specific to your situation, speak with your plan manager, support coordinator, or a free NDIS advocate. Full disclaimer
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