One of the most significant recommendations from the 2023 NDIS Review is the creation of Foundational Supports — a new layer of disability services sitting outside the NDIS, designed for people who need some support but don’t meet NDIS eligibility criteria.
Information current as of June 2024. Implementation timelines may change. This article is general information only — not NDIS, legal, or financial advice.
Why do Foundational Supports exist?
The NDIS was designed for people with permanent and significant disability who need substantial, ongoing support. But many Australians have disability-related needs that are real but don’t rise to that threshold — or they need supports that are better provided in everyday settings like schools and community centres.
The Review found that too many people were being pushed toward NDIS eligibility when what they actually needed was lighter-touch, community-based support. This created pressure on the scheme and left gaps for those who didn’t qualify.
What will Foundational Supports include?
The government has indicated Foundational Supports will cover:
- Information and navigation services — helping people understand their options and connect with services
- Peer support — connecting people with lived experience of disability
- Early intervention — particularly for children with developmental concerns
- Carer support — respite and wellbeing services for family carers
- Community inclusion — supports to participate in everyday community life
Who will be responsible?
Unlike the NDIS (which is federally funded), Foundational Supports will be a shared responsibility between the Commonwealth and state/territory governments. State governments are working with the federal government to design and fund these services.
Timeline for Western Australia
WA’s rollout is expected in late 2025 as part of the national implementation schedule. The exact services available will depend on the state government’s agreements with Canberra.
What this means for current NDIS participants
If you’re already on the NDIS, Foundational Supports are not for you — your existing plan and supports continue unchanged. These new services are targeted at people outside the scheme who currently have unmet needs.
Source: Australian Government — NDIS Reform
General information only
This article is for general information purposes only. It does not constitute NDIS, legal, or financial advice. NDIS rules and supports vary by individual plan. For advice specific to your situation, speak with your Support Coordinator or contact the NDIA directly at ndis.gov.au or call 1800 800 110.