We know recent news about NDIS reforms might feel heavy. For many of you, your participants, and your loved ones, hearing about potential service caps or changes to funding for social and community participation is deeply stressful. We want to start by saying: we hear you, and we are here for you.
Our commitment to you remains unchanged
While the government works through these changes, we want you to know Mable's business model is not changing. Our platform continues to be a place where you can find and book independent support workers who best meet your needs or those of your clients. While we may make a few small technical updates behind the scenes, your ability to use Mable remains exactly as it is today.
We're your partner and advocate
During this transition, we're dedicated to supporting safe, transparent connections. We are actively advocating for person-centred approaches to care that respect your choice and control, and we'll keep helping our community understand what these reforms mean in practice as more details emerge.
The current system is still in place
It's worth noting that the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 is still before Parliament, and changes won't occur until it has been passed through both the lower (House of Representatives) and upper houses (the Senate).
This means your existing NDIS plans stay active, and your funding continues under current arrangements.
Understanding the "why" behind the reforms
On 22 April 2026, Minister Mark Butler announced the government wanted to "reset" the NDIS. Since the scheme began 13 years ago, it has grown much faster than originally expected. The government says these reforms are necessary to ensure the scheme is sustainable and continues to support Australians with the highest needs for generations to come.
Key changes on the horizon
The proposed Bill focuses on several key areas designed to improve consistency and integrity across the scheme:
A focus on permanent and significant disability, with assessments looking at functional capacity (how disability impacts your daily life) rather than just a diagnosis. For some NDIS participants with lower support needs, this may mean they are directed to services outside the NDIS instead of receiving a plan.
A new planning framework, expected to begin in April 2027, aims to make budgets more consistent, so people with similar needs are more likely to receive similar levels of support.
Measures to slow spending growth, which may include reviews of specific funding categories. For example, the average participant budget for social and community participation is set to decrease from $31,000 to $26,000.
Stronger oversight and expanded provider registration requirements to reduce fraud and ensure safety.
A new digital payment system is being investigated to track how funds are used.
Some additional support programs will be opening. The government has announced a $200m fund to rebuild capability among community organisations, which may include state-based services or early intervention programs, particularly for children with milder developmental needs.
Staying informed together
The government has indicated that these reforms will roll out progressively between 2026 and 2028. We encourage you to seek independent advice tailored to your personal situation and stay updated through official sources.
For the most up-to-date information, please visit the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing. Mable will continue to be here, supporting your choice and your community along the way.
