Updates on Allied Health Reports: What Providers Need to Know

If you are an allied health provider, you probably spend a lot of time writing reports for the NDIS. These reports are often used to support plan reviews, reassessments, and explaining why certain supports should continue or change. 

However, the way they are used in NDIS decision-making is starting to change. The Australian Government and the NDIA are rolling out a new way of planning, with gradual changes from now and a bigger shift expected from mid-2026. Here is what we know so far and what it means for providers. 

What is changing in NDIS planning 

From mid-2026, the NDIS is introducing a new planning framework based on a structured support needs assessment. This assessment will be completed by NDIA assessors using a standardised tool called I-CAN v6. 

The aim is to make planning more consistent and reduce the pressure on participants to gather multiple external reports just to access or maintain supports. Instead of relying heavily on lengthy allied health reports at the planning stage, the NDIA will use this assessment to understand a person’s functional support needs and help determine their budget. 

This represents a shift away from planning that is largely driven by reports, toward a more standardised assessment process led by the NDIA. 

What this means for allied health reports 

For providers, this means the role of reports is changing slightly, but they are not going away. 

At the moment, allied health reports are still very relevant, especially for plan reassessments, change of circumstances requests, and reviews. The NDIA continues to expect reports to clearly explain: 

• what therapy has been delivered 

• how the person has progressed toward their goals 

• any ongoing barriers or changes in functional capacity 

• why continued or adjusted supports are reasonable and necessary 

Under the new framework, allied health reports may be used less to prove eligibility and more to show functional change, complexity, or evolving support needs over time. They are likely to be considered alongside the NDIA’s own assessment, rather than being the main factor driving the entire planning decision. 

What providers should focus on now 

During this transition period, good reporting still matters. 

Providers should continue to focus on clear, functional, outcome-based reports that link therapy to everyday activities and NDIS goals. Reports that show progress, explain why supports are effective, and outline what may happen without those supports are likely to remain valuable. 

This is also a good time to review report templates. Using clear language, measurable outcomes, and practical recommendations will help ensure your reports stay relevant as planning processes change. 

Looking ahead 

More guidance is expected as the new planning framework is finalised and rolled out. For now, allied health reports will continue to be used, just in a different way. 

Staying informed, keeping documentation focused on function and outcomes, and being ready to adapt will help providers manage these changes and continue supporting participants effectively. 

For more information, you can read the NDIA’s guide on Plan reassessment reports and updates on Update - a new way of planning