Published On: May 27th, 2025|Categories: Community, Announcements, Plan Management, Support Coordination|Tags: , , |
From 19 May 2025, NDIS funding will move from annual upfront payments to quarterly instalments.Instead of receiving the full 12-month allocation at once, participants will now get their funding in smaller blocks, typically every three months.

This new funding structure is designed to improve budget control, reduce stress, and ensure supports are used consistently.

NDIS Funding Changes

How Is the New NDIS Funding Different?

The total funding amount stays the same, but it is delivered in parts to encourage better usage.

Previously:

  • The entire plan budget was released at the start of the plan
  • Many participants either overspent too quickly or underspent and lost out on services

Now:

  • Funding is released every quarter
  • Participants receive reminders and support to plan within each 3-month period
  • Plan managers help distribute and monitor spending within each cycle

Why Did the NDIS Make This Change?

The goal is to make NDIS funding easier to manage and reduce financial stress for participants.

The decision came after sector-wide consultation, with the NDIA identifying several key reasons for the shift:

  • Help participants make their funding last longer
  • Reduce risks of underspending or overspending
  • Promote regular support use instead of large bursts
  • Allow NDIS plan managers and support coordinators to better assist with short-term planning

Who Will Be Affected by This New Funding Structure?

Only participants with new plans, reviews, or reassessments made after May 19, 2025, will be affected by this change.

There is no retroactive update for existing plans.

The rollout will be gradual and based on each participant’s review schedule.

Tip: If you have a review coming up, ask your planner how the new structure will apply to you.

How to Prepare for the Change as a Participant?

Your overall budget remains unchanged; only the delivery schedule is adjusted.

To prepare:

  • Speak to your NDIS planner or LAC at your next meeting
  • Talk to your Plan Manager to structure your spending
  • Ask questions and seek clarity, do not wait until your review to act

You can also request an early check-in if you believe the quarterly funding model would aid in budgeting.

How Can Help at Hand Support Assist You?

Help at Hand Support offers dedicated plan management services tailored to the new NDIS funding model.

Our team will:

  • Explain the changes in plain English
  • Set up your plan to align with each 3-month cycle
  • Handle budget tracking, provider payments, and invoice approvals
  • Notify you when your next funding block is due
  • Ensure full usage of your plan so nothing goes to waste
  • Whether you are new to NDIS or navigating your fifth plan, we help you get the most out of your funding every quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my total NDIS budget go down?

No. The total amount stays the same. Only the release method changes.

Can I still receive the support I need promptly?

Yes. Urgent or high-priority supports can still be accessed within the funding cycle.

What if I need to change providers mid-quarter?

Your plan manager can help reallocate your budget for that quarter.

Will this apply to self-managed participants?

Yes, but you will receive funds in smaller increments.

Can I request a funding period of a different length?

Possibly. Your planner will assess your situation and may tailor the period accordingly.

Make Budgeting Easy with Expert NDIS Plan Management

With quarterly NDIS funding starting, plan management is more important than ever.

At Help at Hand Support, our NDIS Plan Management service helps track your budget, manage provider payments, and keep your plan on schedule.

We ensure your funds are used correctly across each quarter.

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