Will My NDIS Funding Be Cut? Separating Fact From Fear
Will my NDIS funding be cut? A calm, plain-English look at what is changing from 2026, what is not, and the practical steps to protect your plan.
The short answer: what is and isn't being cut
What exactly is the 'participation budget reset'?
What is NOT changing — the supports that stay
Why 'allocation cut' does not mean 'your funding cut'
When does this affect me? A plain timeline
The new planning and assessment system (from 2027)
Will the eligibility changes push me out of the NDIS?
What about people who lose access or don't qualify?
What you can do now to protect your plan
If you disagree with a decision
Feeling worried, unsafe or in crisis
Finding and comparing providers who can help
Frequently asked questions
Will my NDIS funding be cut in 2026?
Not necessarily. From 1 October 2026 the NDIA begins resetting social, community and civic participation budgets as plans renew, and those allocations are being reduced. But critical daily-living and personal-care supports are not part of this reset. Whether your total funding changes depends on how much of your plan sits in the participation category. Check your own plan mix and confirm details with the NDIA.
Are my personal care and daily-living supports safe?
The government has stated that critical daily-living and personal-care supports are not affected by the participation budget reset. If your plan is mostly these supports, the reset may have little effect on you. They are still assessed on need, so keeping current evidence of your functional needs is worthwhile.
When will the changes affect my plan?
Most changes apply when your plan is reassessed or renewed, not on a single national date. The participation reset starts progressively from 1 October 2026, new-framework planning from 1 April 2027, and eligibility-by-function from 1 January 2028 at the earliest. These dates have shifted before, so confirm the current timing with the NDIA and find your own renewal date.
What can I do if my funding is reduced?
You can ask the NDIA for an internal review of the decision, and if still unhappy, apply to the Administrative Review Tribunal. Extra appeals-advocacy funding is available in 2026-27 through Legal Aid and NDIS appeals support. Keep every decision letter, act within any time limits, and get an independent advocate to help — advocacy is free.
I'm scared about losing supports I depend on. Who can I talk to?
For emotional distress or crisis, Lifeline is available 24 hours on 13 11 14. For concerns about the safety or quality of your supports, contact the NDIS Commission on 1800 035 544, and call 000 in immediate danger. For plan questions, a support coordinator or an independent advocate can walk through your specific situation with you.