We understand there has been a lot of information and media focus lately about changes to the NDIS, particularly following recent announcements from Mark Butler, the Federal Minister for Health, Disability and the NDIS. We know this has raised questions for many families.

We want to start by reassuring you that you are not alone in this, and you do not need to make big decisions in a rush.

Periods of reform often bring a mix of confirmed information, speculation and opinions. What matters most is understanding what is changing, what is still unfolding, what the potential impacts could be for you and what you can be doing to prepare for these changes.

Some of the key points from Minister Butler’s announcement include:

  • A focus on functional impact and functional impact when considering eligibility for the NDIS, rather than just relying on diagnosis
  • An impact on the number of people that will receive individualised funding through the NDIS
  • A change to how much money will be provided in NDIS budgets
What we know:
  • Your child’s current NDIS plan continues as usual until it is formally reviewed
  • If your child has an active plan, you can continue using it for approved supports during the plan period
  • Speech pathology remains an established NDIS support when it is linked to functional goals and everyday outcomes
  • Plan reviews are continuing across the NDIS
  • Many reviews are placing more focus on how therapy links clearly to goals and daily life
What is not confirmed yet, but is being discussed and may be changing:
  • More structured planning and clearer explanations of how funding is allocated
  • Greater focus on why a certain amount of therapy is recommended
  • More questions at review time about  functional outcomes and functional impacts
  • Possible changes to evidence or reporting requirements

 These changes are still being worked through, and families’ experiences can vary.

What this could mean for families – Some families may notice very little change.  Others may be asked more questions at review time.
You may notice:

  • A stronger focus on practical, functional goals such as communication for school, social connection, independence and safety
  • Less focus on diagnosis alone, and more on how communication impacts everyday life
  • A greater benefit in being prepared ahead of plan reviews
What can you do now
  • Know your plan end date and aim to prepare 12 weeks before a review.
  • Keep track of progress: Brief notes about what has improved, what is still hard and what matters most in daily life are very helpful.
  • Consistency helps. Ongoing therapy can make progress easier to show at review time
  • Consider backup options.  The budget that you receive from NDIS may be less than what you were anticipating. If an option, consider supplementing via privately paying for therapy and claiming rebates through Medicare or your private health insurer.
  • Avoid social media panic. Online stories often focus on extremes and may not reflect your child’s situation.

You do not need to make any immediate changes – continue to know your child best, what works well for them and how this helps them. You will continue to be the best expert on your child and a strong advocate for them.

How we can help

At North Shore Speech Therapy, we are monitoring these changes closely and will continue to keep you informed.

Our speech therapists already have a range of ways to support our families through this time of change and potential uncertainty and will work with them to make sure they have what is needed for their NDIS plan review.

Our NDIS specialised services include:

  • A 60-minute pre planning support session: A 1:1 session with our speech therapist focussed on helping you gather evidence and prepare for your child’s NDIS review meeting.
  • Preparing a comprehensive NDIS report for your NDIS review meeting to provide the information that your NDIS planner is looking for including progress towards goals, functional impacts, recommendations for ongoing therapy and the estimated cost of these services
  • Providing up to date, functional goals and regular goal reviews that support your child’s progress towards their NDIS goals
  • Providing a clear therapy plan so that you understand our therapy recommendations, why they are important and how they will support your child
  • Different options for receiving speech pathology support including groups and intensive therapy sessions.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to reach out to us through the contact form provided. We’re here to listen and to help you navigate whatever comes next.

NDIS Contact Form

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