New National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) laws are now in place. As a result, upcoming changes in the NDIS will affect participants and applicants who have a life-limiting condition.  

Right now, all NDIS participants can continue using their plans and supports as usual. Over time, there will be changes to how people access the NDIS, plans are created, funding is used, providers deliver supports, and how NDIS prices are set. 

Changes to plan reassessments have begun. Changes to social and community participation funding will start phasing in from October this year. Other changes will be introduced over the next few years. Eligibility changes will not occur until 1 January 2028.  

For more information, visit:  

• the NDIS website, and 
• the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing website 

These changes are set out in the NDIS Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Act. This legislation came into effect in late August 2026.  

Palliative Care Australia has raised concerns about the potential impact of these changes on people with a life limiting illness and has provided recommendations to improve the legislation. You can read more here. 

The NDIS Priority Access Application Pathway for people with a life-limiting illness continues to operate as usual. This Pathway aims to provide this cohort a decision about eligibility within 5 working days and a first plan within 30 days.  

PCA advocates for the Pathway’s continuation, as changes occur in the NDIS.  

We also welcome de-identified examples of the issues faced by people with a life-limiting condition who participate in the NDIS, and those who need functional supports, but who are not NDIS eligible. These experiences strengthen PCA’s advocacy for better care and support.

You can share your experience here.