NDIS Changes 2024 – What They All Mean
In early October, the Federal Government implemented major legislative changes to the NDIS. We explore these changes and their impacts.
The date 3 October 2024 marked a significant shift in the direction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
It was then that the Federal Government implemented a series of legislative changes – the most substantial amendments since the NDIS was established in 2013.
Some changes have taken immediate effect while others are set to roll out in coming months.
The government has suggested the transformation will make the NDIS more accessible and accountable, strengthening the scheme and enhancing the experience for those using it.
Despite that, there has been vocal opposition to the changes, and the move has created confusion.
In this article, we aim to cut through the complexity to summarise the key changes that have been introduced and what they mean for people with disability and their families and supports.
NDIS Changes 2024 – A Summary
The most notable change relates to a new set of rules for NDIS funding that define what can and cannot be funded by the scheme.
Now, you can only use your NDIS funds for items listed as approved supports.
Other key NDIS changes include:
- All participants will slowly move to new plan guidelines.
- Assessments will be used to figure out what kind of disability supports you need.
- New pathways will guide how you get support, based on your disability, early intervention or a mix of these factors.
- The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) will have more authority to make sure your funds are used properly.
- You will need to have ‘stronger evidence’ if you want to report a change in your situation.
What Are the NDIS Changes?
The NDIS has updated its guidelines as it seeks to make its processes clearer and more structured. This includes:
- Clearer funding guidelines: New guidelines now specify which expenses are covered.
- Improved planning: Updated guidelines help ensure that supports are tailored to each person’s needs.
- Standardised assessments: Central assessments will help determine funding.
- Pathway-specific support: New pathways guide people in finding the right support, focusing on their unique needs and early interventions.
- Increased oversight: The NDIA will oversee fund management more closely to ensure funds align with each person’s goals.
- Stronger documentation: Participants will need to report changes in their situation to help the NDIA make informed decisions.
How the 2024 NDIS Changes Will Affect You
The Federal Government has indicated the changes will create the following benefits:
- Easier access: New guidelines and pathways aim to make it easier to access the supports you need.
- Clearer fund use: Updated guidelines help you understand what expenses are covered.
- Fair funding: Standardised assessments ensure you receive the right amount of funding based on your needs.
- Better accountability: Increased NDIA oversight will make fund management more transparent.
Your Questions Answered
Following the announcement of these changes, the NDIS has been flooded with questions.
It has since created a handy Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page.
This page addresses many of the common queries and concerns that have resulted from the announcement of the changes and their subsequent rollout.
Looking for More Guidance?
There is a lot to get your head around with the recent NDIS changes.
At Endeavour Foundation, we can help to clear up the confusion.
Our expert NDIS team is across the latest news and can talk through what the changes mean for you and your individual support plan.
To find out more, get in touch with us today.