3 October 2024 was a significant date for the NDIS. This is when the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Act 2024 took full effect. Here’s a practical summary of what changed.
Information current as of October 2024. This article is general information only — not NDIS, legal, or financial advice.
What changed on 3 October 2024?
New NDIS Support definition
The NDIS now operates with a formal list of approved and excluded supports. Funding can only be used for supports on the approved list unless a formal “replacement support” request is made and approved.
Total budget plans (PACE)
All new plans issued through the PACE system now show a total funded amount — a single number representing all your NDIS funding, alongside the category breakdown. This applies to plans issued on or after 3 October 2024.
Clearer access decisions
New participants approved from this date receive an impairment notice (from 1 January 2025) listing the specific impairments that qualified them for the NDIS — either the disability pathway, early intervention pathway, or both.
Provider claims window
Providers now have a two-year window from the date of service to submit a claim. Claims for services delivered before 3 October 2024 are honoured for 12 months under transitional arrangements.
Quality and safeguards expansion
The NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission received expanded compliance powers to take action against providers who are not meeting their obligations.
What didn’t change on 3 October 2024?
- Existing plans: Your current plan and approved supports are not automatically changed. The new rules apply at your next plan review.
- Your providers: You can continue using your existing providers.
- Your Support Coordinator: No change to how coordination works.
What should I do now?
- Talk to your Support Coordinator before your next plan review — understanding the new supports list in advance is important.
- Check the NDIA website for the current approved supports list.
- Don’t panic — changes are phased in, and your coordinator is here to help you navigate them.
Source: NDIS — Summary of legislation changes
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.