Big Changes Coming to NDIS Assessments: What Every Participant Needs to Know

Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is preparing for one of its biggest transformations yet: a complete overhaul of how participant needs are assessed. The new system aims to make the process fairer, more consistent, and easier to navigate, with a focus on a person’s strengths and goals rather than just their challenges.

Here’s what these changes mean for participants, families, and carers and how you can prepare.

A New Way to Assess Needs: Strengths-Based and Holistic

Under the new framework, NDIS assessments will focus on what participants can do, not just what they can’t. Instead of relying solely on reports from doctors or therapists, the process will use standardised tools to measure a person’s support needs across all areas of life.

For participants aged 16 and over, the main assessment tool will be the I-CAN (Instrument for the Classification and Assessment of Support Needs), Version 6. This internationally recognised tool looks at 12 key life domains including mobility, communication, self-care, relationships, health, and community participation.

The goal is to make sure every participant’s plan reflects their real-life needs and goals — and that people with similar levels of support need receive similar funding.

Assessments Will Be Conducted by Accredited Assessors

Instead of having to organise and pay for separate medical reports, participants will meet with an independent accredited assessor at no cost. These assessors will be trained to use the I-CAN tool and other approved frameworks to build a clear picture of a participant’s functional capacity and support needs.

Each assessment will result in a detailed report that feeds directly into a participant’s NDIS plan and budget. The process is designed to reduce stress and make funding decisions more transparent.

Rollout Timeline: Gradual Introduction From 2026

The NDIS will begin rolling out the new assessment model from mid-2026, with full national implementation expected to take around five years. Participants will be contacted ahead of their next plan review and supported through the transition.

If your plan is due for renewal around 2026 or later, you may be among the first to experience the new system. During the transition, the NDIA has committed to ensuring participants feel informed, supported, and ready before any changes are applied.

What This Means for You

✅ Fairer and More Consistent Assessments

By using the same framework nationwide, the NDIS aims to eliminate inconsistencies that have led to frustration and confusion among participants.

✅ More Flexible Plans

Budgets will become more adaptable, allowing participants to use their funding in ways that better align with their goals, rather than being locked into narrow categories.

⚠️ Some Uncertainty During Transition

As with any major reform, there may be confusion early on. Different participants could be assessed under different systems for a period of time, and there may be delays as new assessors are trained.

How to Prepare for the Change

1. Stay Informed: Follow updates from the NDIS and disability organisations such as MyCareSpace and Plan Hero. These platforms share clear summaries and examples as reforms are implemented.

2. Keep Your Records Organised: Even though the new system aims to simplify evidence requirements, it’s still helpful to keep recent therapy reports, school or work documents, and notes about your day-to-day challenges and supports.

3. Ask Questions: When contacted for assessment, ask who the assessor is, what tool they’re using, and how your input will shape the outcome. Understanding the process helps ensure your voice is heard.

4. Connect With Advocates: Disability advocates and support coordinators can help you understand your rights, including how to appeal decisions if you disagree with an assessment or plan outcome.

   
   

Final Thoughts

The upcoming NDIS assessment reforms represent a major shift in how support needs are measured and funded. The goal is a fairer, more person-centered system that recognises the individuality of each participant.

While change can be daunting, it also brings opportunity. With the right preparation and awareness, participants and families can use this transition to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are fully understood.