What to Expect from the NDIS in 2026

2026 is shaping up to be a year of consolidation and transition for the NDIS. The major legislative changes of 2024–25 are now being implemented, and participants can expect more certainty — alongside some important deadlines.

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

Key dates and milestones

February 2026 — SC registration policy resumes

The NDIS Commission resumed policy development for mandatory Support Coordinator registration. No new implementation date has been set, but the direction of travel is clear: all Support Coordinators will eventually need to be registered. Expect further consultation and a revised timeline in the first half of 2026.

Mid-2026 — Foundational Supports continue rolling out

State-designed Foundational Supports are expected to be progressively available across Australia through 2026. In WA, the focus is on information hubs, peer support, and early childhood services. These are for people outside the NDIS — if you’re already a participant, your plan is not affected.

1 July 2026 — SIL and platform provider registration deadline

This is the firm deadline. If your SIL provider or platform service is not registered with the NDIS Commission by 1 July 2026, NDIS funding cannot be used for their services. If you’re in a SIL arrangement, ask your coordinator to confirm your provider’s status now.

PACE — where are we now?

The NDIA’s transition to the PACE system is ongoing. Most new plans are now on PACE, and older plans are being transitioned at renewal. Key things to know:

• Quarterly funding periods are the default for PACE plans. You can request monthly or upfront — speak to the NDIA or your coordinator.
• Budget flexibility under PACE allows movement across stated support budgets in many circumstances — your coordinator can advise what’s possible in your plan.
• Total budgets replace line-by-line funding in most plans. This gives more flexibility but requires active monitoring.

Plan review tips for 2026

If your plan is due for review in 2026:

• Start preparation early. Gather evidence, goals, and provider reports at least 6–8 weeks before your review date.
• Review your current plan’s performance. Which supports worked? Which weren’t used and why?
• Think about what’s changed. Have your goals, living situation, or support needs shifted since the last plan?
• Bring your coordinator. Your Support Coordinator should attend or contribute to your planning meeting.

Safeguarding focus in 2026

With the Integrity and Safeguarding Bill now in force, 2026 sees increased enforcement activity from the NDIS Commission. Registered providers are under greater scrutiny, which is ultimately good for participants. If you have concerns about a provider, use the Commission’s reporting line: 1800 035 544.

Xyston in 2026

We continue to work with NDIS participants across Perth and Western Australia. As the reform environment evolves, our commitment remains the same: registered, quality-assured support coordination that keeps you informed and in control of your plan.

If you’re new to the NDIS, considering a provider change, or just have questions — contact us to speak with our team.

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