Reform explainer
Will I lose my NDIS plan?
Short answer: probably not — and not in 2026. The longer answer depends on your situation, and the rules are still being written.
The 30-second version
- No plans are being cancelled in 2026.
- The new assessment tool isn't expected until 2028.
- About 160,000 of 760,000 participants are projected to transition over several years.
- Reassessments happen at your normal plan review cycle — no surprise notices.
- You have rights to internal review, AAT appeal, and free advocacy throughout.
What was announced on 22 April 2026
Minister Mark Butler announced that NDIS eligibility will move to a standardised functional capacity assessment — replacing diagnosis-led decisions. Around 160,000 participants are projected to transition off the scheme over the coming years, with a new tier of state-funded "foundational supports" for those who no longer qualify.
Critically, the announcement was a policy framework — not the final rules. The detailed criteria, the assessment tool itself, and the foundational support programs in each state are still being designed. Most operational change will happen between now and 2028.
Who is most likely to be reassessed
Based on what's been said publicly, the cohorts most likely to be reviewed include:
- People whose current plan is mostly social and community participation supports
- People with mild functional impairment whose needs could be met by mainstream services
- Children under 9 transitioning to state-run Thriving Kids programs
- People with psychosocial disability whose needs may move to the Mental Health foundational tier
If your plan is for high-intensity supports, complex needs, specialist accommodation, or capital supports, the announced reforms target your cohort less directly.
Get a personalised read in 5 minutes
The check tool asks 8 questions and gives you a clear read on how the announced changes are likely to affect someone in your specific situation — plus a printable roadmap to take to your next plan review.
Start the check →Frequently asked
Will I lose my NDIS plan in 2026?
No NDIS plans are being cancelled in 2026. The April 2026 announcement was a policy framework — the actual rules have not been written. Existing plans continue under current criteria until they come up for review.
When will the new eligibility rules take effect?
The new functional capacity assessment tool is slated to be operational from 2028 at the earliest. Existing participants will be reassessed under the new framework as their plans come up for renewal — gradual phase-in, not a hard cutover.
Who is most likely to be affected?
The government has projected approximately 160,000 participants will move off the scheme by end-of-decade out of a base of ~760,000 — roughly 21%. The cohort most likely to be reassessed includes people whose plans focus on lower-intensity social and community participation supports, people with mild functional impairment, and some children currently funded under early intervention.
What can I do now?
Document your support needs in functional terms (not diagnosis terms). Build evidence of how your supports enable specific everyday tasks. Connect with a free disability advocate through DANA. Take the 5-minute check on this site for a personalised read.
What if my plan is reduced or removed?
You have the right to internal review within 3 months, then external review through the Administrative Review Tribunal within 28 days of that outcome. Free legal aid is available in every state. Foundational supports run by your state government will provide a safety net for participants who move off NDIS.
Information current as of 7 May 2026. Rules are subject to change. This page is general information, not legal or financial advice. For advice specific to your situation, talk to your plan manager, support coordinator, or a free disability advocate. Full disclaimer