New Framework Planning: What the Biggest NDIS Change in Years Means for You

The NDIS is about to change the way plans are built. It’s called New Framework Planning, and it’s the most significant shift to the planning process since the scheme launched. Public consultation on the draft rules closed on 6 March 2026, and rollout begins from mid-2026.

Here’s what we know so far — and what it means for participants in Perth and WA.

Information current as of March 2026. Policy is evolving. This article is general information only — not NDIS, legal, or financial advice.

What is New Framework Planning?

New Framework Planning replaces the current planning process with a more structured, evidence-based approach. The NDIA says the goal is to make planning “fairer, more consistent, and easier for participants.”

The key changes:

• Support Needs Assessments — A trained assessor will have a structured conversation with you about your daily life and disability support needs. This replaces the less formal planning conversations used today.
• Longer plan periods — Plans will cover longer timeframes, meaning fewer scheduled reviews and more stability.
• Two funding types — Your plan will contain either stated items (funding locked to a specific purpose) or a flexible budget (funding you can move between NDIS supports as needed).
• Phased rollout — It starts mid-2026 with a small number of participants aged 16 and over, then expands over several years.

What stays the same?

• You still get an NDIS plan with funded supports.
• You can still choose your own providers.
• Your Support Coordinator still helps you navigate and use your plan.
• Existing plans continue until your next scheduled review — nobody is being switched overnight.

When will it affect me?

For most participants, not yet. The rollout is gradual:

• Mid-2026: A small group of participants start using New Framework Planning.
• Over the next 5 years: All participants will transition at their scheduled plan review.
• Your current plan is safe: Nothing changes until your next review, and even then, only if your area has transitioned.

If you’re in Perth or WA, it’s likely the initial rollout will begin in other states first. But it’s worth understanding the process now so you’re prepared.

What about Support Coordination?

Support Coordination continues under New Framework Planning. Your coordinator will still:

• Help you understand and implement your plan
• Connect you with providers and services
• Monitor your budget and progress toward goals
• Advocate at plan reviews

In fact, having a coordinator may be even more important during the transition — someone who understands both the old and new systems can help you navigate the change.

What about SC registration?

Separately, mandatory Support Coordinator registration has been paused. The NDIS Commission is still working on the policy, but no implementation date has been set. SIL and platform provider registration is still going ahead on 1 July 2026 as planned.

What should you do now?

1. Don’t panic. Your current plan continues until your next review.
2. Keep good records. Evidence of how you use your supports and progress toward goals will matter more under the new system.
3. Talk to your coordinator. If you have questions about how New Framework Planning might affect your next plan, ask us.
4. Stay informed. We’ll continue publishing updates as the NDIA releases more detail.

Where to learn more

• NDIS: Update on the new way of planning
• NDIS: New Framework Planning overview
• Department of Health: Public consultation page

If you’re a participant in Perth or WA and want to understand what these changes mean for your specific situation — get in touch. We’re here to help.

Xyston Support Coordination | Registered NDIS Provider No. 4050127478 | Serving participants across Perth and WA