On August 22, 2024, the Australian Parliament passed the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024. This legislation is intended to strengthen the NDIS and improve participant experiences. The new laws will come into effect 28 days after receiving Royal Assent, likely in mid to late September 2024.
Key changes include updates to how participant eligibility is assessed, the types of supports funded by the NDIS, and how plans and funding are managed. New NDIS Rules, developed in collaboration with the disability community, will guide these changes and will be implemented in stages.
Specific legislative changes include:
- Eligibility Pathways: Updated processes for determining eligibility based on disability or early intervention requirements.
- Support Clarifications: NDIS will fund only supports related to the impairments for which a participant qualifies.
- Plan Management: The NDIA may change plan management types in certain circumstances, such as if funds are not being properly spent.
- Funding Framework: Introduction of total funding amounts, component amounts, and funding periods within participant plans.
- Information Gathering and Reassessments: New powers for the NDIA to request information and reassess eligibility, particularly for specific cohorts like children turning 9.
The transition to these changes will be gradual, with ongoing updates and consultations with the disability community to ensure the reforms are effective and inclusive.
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