NDIS Updates, Family Resources
New Framework Planning and the Future of the NDIS
Key notes
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New framework planning is a future NDIA planning reform.
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It is expected to begin from mid-2026 with a small group of participants.
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The new approach aims to make plans fairer, simpler and more consistent.
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Support needs assessments may reduce reliance on multiple expensive reports.
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Participants do not need to act now unless contacted about a change.
New Framework Planning and the Future of the NDIS
Alongside the changes already happening in the NDIS, there is also a bigger planning reform on the horizon called new framework planning. This is the NDIA’s new approach to planning, designed to make plans fairer, easier to use and more focused on a person’s disability support needs. For participants, families and carers, it is helpful to know what this change is about, even though most people will not move into the new process straight away.
What Is New Framework Planning?
New framework planning is expected to begin from mid-2026 with a small number of participants, then roll out gradually over a number of years. It is intended to create simpler plans, more consistent budgets and a planning process that relies less on people having to source multiple expensive reports. A key part of this approach is a support needs assessment, which is a structured conversation with a trained assessor about the person’s day-to-day life and disability support needs.
What the New Planning Process May Involve
Under the new approach, participants are expected to spend more time talking with trained assessors and NDIS staff about the supports they need in daily life. The goal is to build budgets in a more consistent way while still taking into account each person’s circumstances, goals and support needs. Importantly, plans will continue to be approved by trained NDIA staff, and participants will still have review rights if they disagree with a decision.
How Participants Can Prepare
There is nothing most participants need to do right now unless they are contacted about a change. Still, it can help to keep reports and records organised, think about the support you use each day, and involve family members or trusted supporters in future planning conversations. The clearer you can describe daily life, routines, challenges and goals, the easier it can be to prepare if and when the new planning process applies to you.
Mercy Connect’s Role
Mercy Connect supports participants and families with clear, practical guidance as the NDIS continues to evolve. We know change can feel unsettling, especially when information is still rolling out. Our role is to help make things easier to understand, so people feel informed and prepared rather than overwhelmed.
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