How NDIS Assessments Are Changing (and What It Means for You)

Parability Team
Oct 13
2 min read

Big changes are coming to how people are assessed for NDIS support. If you’re an NDIS participant, carer or support worker, these updates could affect how your plan is created and how your funding is decided.

At Parability Support Services, knowledge is power. Here’s a simple overview of what’s changing, why it matters, and how you can prepare.

What’s Changing in the NDIS Assessment Process

The NDIA is introducing a new way to assess support needs. Instead of relying heavily on medical or allied-health reports, participants will take part in a structured interview with an NDIA assessor.

This interview will use a tool called the Instrument for Classification and Assessment of Support Needs (I-CAN), which looks at areas like mobility, communication, self-care, relationships, and health.

Other key updates include:

A clearer definition of NDIS supports helps participants understand what can and can’t be funded.
A new planning framework, focusing on a flexible budget rather than listing every support item.
A phased rollout, starting with participants aged over 16 from mid-2026.

Why These Changes Are Being Made

These reforms follow a national review that found the old system was often unfair, inconsistent, and confusing.

The goal is to:

Reduce the cost and time spent gathering reports.
Create a more consistent and fair way of assessing support needs.
Make the process easier and more transparent for participants.

While the changes aim to simplify things, there’s also concern about whether the new system will truly capture each person’s unique situation.

What Participants Are Concerned About

Advocates and participants have raised some valid concerns, such as:

Whether the interview can reflect complex or fluctuating needs.
How the results will translate into funding decisions.
The risk of a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
How emotionally challenging the interview process might feel.

These are important points—and why staying informed and prepared will make a real difference.

How You Can Prepare for the New NDIS Assessments

Although the rollout will take time, you can begin preparing now. Here’s how:

Know your story – Think about how your disability impacts your daily life, and what supports make the biggest difference.
Get comfortable discussing your needs – The interview will focus on your experiences, so being prepared helps.
Involve your support network – Bring a family member, friend, or support coordinator to help you communicate clearly.
Stay informed – Follow reliable updates from the NDIS, advocacy organisations, and Parability Support Services.

How Parability Support Services Can Help

At Parability, we’re here to make the transition easier for you. We offer:

Pre-assessment coaching to help you prepare for your NDIS interview.
Plan review and coordination to make sure your goals and supports stay aligned.
Advocacy and guidance if you need help understanding decisions or reviewing options.

We’ll also be sharing regular updates and practical tips as the new system rolls out.

Stay Informed and Empowered

Change can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. The new NDIS assessment process is designed to simplify things, and with the right preparation, you can make sure your voice is heard.

Parability Support Services—helping you navigate change with confidence.