The world of the NDIS is always changing, and we know that talk of future reforms can feel unsettling. You might be hearing about the NDIS Review and wondering what it all means for you and your family as we look towards 2026.
At Liorn Support Services, we want to cut through the noise and offer some clarity and reassurance. Change can be a positive thing, and our promise to you is that we will be here to support you through every step of the journey. This guide is designed to help you understand what’s ahead and how you can feel prepared and empowered.
What’s Driving the Changes? The NDIS Review
The Australian Government recently completed a major review of the NDIS. The goal wasn't to take things away, but to make the scheme stronger, fairer, and more effective for participants for many years to come.
The review focused on a few key ideas:
- A Better Participant Experience: Making the NDIS process smoother, from applying to getting and using your plan.
- Foundational Supports: Building more supports within the community that are available to all people with a disability, whether they are on the NDIS or not.
- Fairness and Consistency: Ensuring that plans are more consistent and that decisions are made in a clear and fair way.
- Quality and Safety: Continuing to raise the bar for the quality of services you receive.
Think of it as fine-tuning the NDIS to make sure it’s working its best for you.
What Might the NDIS Look Like in 2026?
While the exact details are still being finalised, the NDIS Review gives us a good idea of the direction we are heading. Here’s what this could mean for you:
- A Clearer Focus on Goals: Your NDIS plan will likely have an even stronger focus on your long-term goals and outcomes. It’s less about a shopping list of supports and more about building a great life.
- More Support in Your Community: There will be a greater emphasis on connecting you with 'foundational supports'. These are services like local health clinics, community groups, and sporting clubs that help everyone feel included.
- Simpler Planning: The aim is to make planning meetings feel less like an interrogation and more like a supportive conversation about your needs and aspirations.
- More Flexibility (Within Reason): The goal is to ensure your funding is directed towards evidence-based supports that genuinely help you achieve your goals.
Most importantly, the core principles of the NDIS – choice and control – will remain. You will always be at the centre of decisions about your life.
How You Can Prepare for the Future
Feeling prepared is the best way to embrace change with confidence. Here are a few simple things you can do:
- Think About Your Goals: Take some time to really think about what you want to achieve. What does a good life look like for you? Having a clear vision makes it easier to explain what support you need.
- Gather Your Information: Continue to collect reports and assessments from your doctors, therapists, and support workers. This evidence is crucial for showing why you need certain supports.
- Stay Connected: Talk to your Support Coordinator, your providers, and your community. A strong network is your best asset.
- Don't Believe Rumours: Get your information from official sources like the NDIS website or trusted partners like us. We promise to keep you updated with clear, accurate information.
We Are Your Partners on This Journey
The NDIS landscape may shift, but our commitment to you is unwavering. The team at Liorn Support Services is closely following all the developments to ensure we are ready to guide you.
We are here to:
- Help you understand any changes to your plan.
- Connect you with the best supports, both in the NDIS and in the wider community.
- Advocate for you to ensure your voice is heard.
- Provide the same high-quality, compassionate care you have come to expect.
You are not alone in this. Together, we can navigate the future of the NDIS and continue working towards your goals. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to listen and to help.