What’s New – Recent NDIS Changes -

Quick answer: The NDIS updates its pricing structure annually on 1 July, to reflect wage movements and cost changes. Other recent changes include tighter eligibility criteria, a new evidence assessment framework, and the rollout of PACE (the NDIS’s new IT system). This post is updated periodically — always check the NDIS website directly for the most current information.

Keeping up with changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme is important if you want to make the most of your plan. The NDIS isn’t static — pricing, policy, and legislation shift regularly, and what applied last year may not apply now.

This post covers some of the significant areas of NDIS change that participants and families should be aware of. For the most current information, always check the NDIS Latest News page directly.

Pricing updates: what changes each year and why

The NDIS pricing structure is reviewed annually, typically on 1 July each year. These updates generally reflect wage movements (aligned with Fair Work Commission decisions), changes to provider costs, and any new entitlements that affect what providers need to pay their workers.

When prices change, it’s worth checking whether your plan’s budgets are still sufficient — or whether a plan review might be appropriate. Your plan manager or support coordinator can help you work through this.

We’re always transparent about our own pricing. For example, you can see exactly how we charge for horse programs and what the NDIS rate covers in our equine therapy pricing guide.

Legislative reform: what it means for participants

The NDIS has undergone significant legislative reform in recent years, most notably through the NDIS Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track) Act, which followed a comprehensive independent review. The reforms are designed to improve service quality, participant safety, and how supports are approved and reviewed.

Key changes include strengthened powers for the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to act against providers who overcharge or behave unethically. If you believe a provider is charging above what your plan allows or claiming for services not delivered, you can report this to the Commission.

Addressing unfair pricing

One ongoing concern in the NDIS space is providers charging significantly above reasonable rates for essential services. A multi-agency taskforce including the ACCC has been active in this area. As a participant, you’re entitled to understand what you’re being charged and why — and to shop around if you feel a provider’s rates aren’t transparent.

How to stay informed

The NDIS environment changes regularly. Here are the most reliable ways to stay current:

Subscribe to the NDIS Latest News page for official updates
Talk to your support coordinator or plan manager — they track changes as part of their role
Ask your provider how recent pricing changes affect what you’re charged
Request a plan review if your needs or circumstances have changed

The most important thing is to stay engaged. Ask questions, advocate for what you need, and don’t assume that what was in your plan last year still reflects what’s possible this year. If you have questions about how any NDIS changes might affect your support with Heartfelt, get in touch — we’re happy to help you work through it.