NDIS new framework planning and the support needs assessment, from 1 April 2027
By the Supportd team · Checked against official sources on 14 October 2026
The short answer
From 1 April 2027 participants start moving to new framework planning, where your budget is set from a support needs assessment with a trained NDIS assessor. Everyone will have moved by 31 December 2030. The assessment sets your budget, it does not decide whether you can access the NDIS.
What new framework planning is
It is a new way of building NDIS plans. You spend time with a trained NDIS assessor in a semi structured interview about your support needs. The assessment looks at your functional capacity, your life stage and your environment. You then get a support needs assessment report that explains how your budget was decided.
The government says the aim is fairer, more consistent plans, more flexible funding and clearer decisions.
Timeline
- The start was delayed from mid 2026 to 1 April 2027 to allow more consultation and testing
- Consultation on the updated planning rules closed on 14 October 2026
- 1 April 2027: participants begin moving to new framework plans, gradually
- 31 December 2030: the transition ends and everyone is on a new framework plan
How it connects to the other changes
- The October 2026 funding reset does not apply to new framework plans
- Plan management can be added to a new framework plan separately from the assessment of your disability support needs, if you ask for it and are eligible
- The Minister can index new framework plans when prices rise, so budgets keep their buying power
What to do now
- You do not need to do anything yet. The NDIA will contact you before you move.
- Start a simple log of what support you need across a typical week, day and night. It makes the assessment interview easier.
- Ask the people who know you well, including providers and family, to help you describe your needs accurately.
Need to find a provider who fits your new plan?
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Common questions
When does new framework planning start?
From 1 April 2027, rolled out gradually. All participants will have moved to new framework plans by 31 December 2030.
Does the support needs assessment decide if I stay in the NDIS?
No. The government says the support needs assessment is used to make plan budgets, not to determine access to the scheme. Access changes are separate and start from 1 January 2028.
Related on Supportd
Sources
- About the changes to the NDIS (Department of Health, Disability and Ageing)
- Securing the NDIS for future generations timeline (September 2026)
- Have your say on new framework planning (Department of Health, Disability and Ageing)
- Funding changes for NDIS supports (Department of Health, Disability and Ageing)
General information only, checked on 14 October 2026. Dates and details can change as rules are finalised. For decisions about your own plan, contact the NDIA on 1800 800 110 or talk to your support coordinator.