New NDIS planning and support needs assessments: now from 1 April 2027
The NDIA has moved the start of new framework planning, which includes a new support needs assessment, from mid-2026 to 1 April 2027. It was announced on 22 April 2026. Until then, plans keep being made the current way. Many websites still say "July 2026", and that's out of date.
Last updated: 12 October 2026 · Facts checked against ndis.gov.au · Reviewed by: Equal Access Care HR department
What's changing
- Under new framework plans, an assessor looks at your support needs as a whole, using a standard assessment tool (the I-CAN tool has been named), instead of building the plan line by line.
- Your plan budget is then set from that assessment.
- The NDIA says it will explain the process to participants before their own assessment.
What isn't changing yet
- Plans in place now stay in place until they're reassessed.
- You can still ask for a plan reassessment or variation the usual way.
How to prepare (useful whatever the date)
- Keep notes on what support you use each week, and what happens when you don't get it.
- Keep recent reports from your doctors, therapists and support coordinator.
- Ask your providers for progress notes you can share. Our mentors (our support workers, who we call mentors) keep notes you can use.
- Decide who you want with you at the assessment.
- Watch ndis.gov.au for official updates. Don't rely on provider blogs, including this one.
Sources: ndis.gov.au: Changes to the NDIS / new framework planning · NDIA announcement, 22 April 2026 (ndis.gov.au news).
Frequently asked questions
Will my current plan be cut on 1 April 2027?
No. The date is when the new approach starts, not when every plan changes.
Do I have to do anything now?
No, but good records help.
Will my providers change?
The assessment sets your budget. You still choose your providers.
Make a referral or ask a question
Call 0412 306 722 or email admin@equalaccesscare.com.au. We'll call you back the same day. Prefer a form? Use the online referral form.