A new way of planning starts mid-2026: what it means for participants

The NDIA had originally planned to introduce a new way of planning in September 2025. In response to feedback from the disability community, the rollout has been moved to mid-2026 to give participants, families and providers more time to prepare.

The new framework, designed alongside the Participant Pathway Experience (PPE) Co-Design Group, is intended to better match funding to actual support needs.

What's changing

• I-CAN v6 assessment tool — the NDIA has procured a license for the Instrument for Classification and Assessment of Support Needs, which focuses on a participant's disability support needs rather than functional impairments alone. Trained, accredited assessors will use it.
• Impairment notices — since 1 January 2025, all new participants receive an impairment notice that records whether they are entering through the disability or early-intervention pathway.
• Plan management rule changes — from March 2025, new rules clarify when a participant can self-manage versus use a registered plan manager.
• Continuity of funding — funding levels are preserved when circumstances haven't changed.

Read the NDIA's update, and the latest framework communique.