Navigating the New NDIS Funding Periods: What You Need to Know

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is evolving to better serve its participants. One of the significant changes introduced is the restructuring of funding periods within NDIS plans. This shift aims to provide more structured and manageable access to funds, ensuring participants can effectively plan and utilise their resources throughout their plan duration.

What Are Funding Periods?

Previously, NDIS participants received their entire funding allocation upfront, typically covering 12 months. With the new changes, funding will be distributed in instalments over the life of the plan, known as "Funding Periods." This approach is designed to promote better budgeting and reduce the risk of funds being exhausted prematurely.

Types of Funding Periods:

1. Quarterly Releases: Most supports will now have funds released every three months.

2. Monthly Releases: Supports related to Home and Living, such as Supported Independent Living (SIL), will typically have monthly funding releases.

3. Upfront Releases: Certain supports, like Assistive Technology or Home Modifications, will continue to receive funding upfront, usually spanning 12 months.

Key Points to Remember:

• Total Funding Remains Unchanged: The overall amount allocated in your NDIS plan stays the same; only the distribution timing has been adjusted.

• Rollover of Unused Funds: If you don't utilise all your funds within a specific period, the remaining amount will roll over to the next period within the same plan duration.

• Plan Start Date Determines Funding Periods: Your funding periods commence from the start date of your NDIS plan, not the calendar month.

Example Scenario:

Suppose your NDIS plan allocates $48,000 for Assistance with Daily Life over a year. Instead of accessing the full amount upfront, you'll receive $12,000 at the plan's start and then $12,000 every subsequent quarter. If you don't spend the entire $12,000 in the first quarter, the remaining funds will be added to the next quarter's allocation.

Implementation Timeline:

These changes are being rolled out gradually. Participants will experience the new funding periods upon receiving a new or reassessed plan, following discussions to understand individual circumstances.

Further Information:

For a detailed overview of these changes, please refer to the official NDIS announcement.