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The way NDIS plans are made is changing. From mid-2026, a new approach to assessing support needs will be introduced as part of the new framework planning reforms. The goal is to make planning fairer, simpler and more consistent for everyone. A key part of this change is a new assessment tool called the Instrument for the Classification and Assessment of Support Needs, version 6, also known as I-CAN v6. What Is I-CAN v6? The NDIS has shared with us that I-CAN v6 is a person-focused, strengths-based assessment. It looks at how you live your day-to-day life and what support helps you do the things that matter to you. Instead of relying mostly on reports from different health professionals, the I-CAN tool uses a structured conversation to understand your support needs in real life. It focuses on what you can do with the right supports in place, not just on limitations. The assessment looks across 12 life domains: Mobility Domestic Life Self Care Community, Social & Civic Life Communication Learning & Applying Knowledge General Tasks and Demands Life Long Learning Interpersonal Interactions & Relationships Behaviours of Concern Mental & Emotional Health Physical Health Each domain is broken down into sub-areas that help assess what support you use now and what you might need to reach your goals. How the I-CAN v6 Works A trained and certified assessor leads the I-CAN assessment. During the session, you talk about your daily life, what you can do on your own, and where support makes a difference. Your responses are recorded as “I-CAN statements,” which describe what you can do and with what level or type of support. The statements are then scored based on how often support is needed and how much support is required. Assessors are trained to guide these conversations respectfully and at your pace. You can also bring family members, carers, or other support people with you. The aim is to make sure your plan reflects your experiences, priorities, and what matters to you. How This Fits Into NDIS Planning Under the new planning approach, I-CAN v6 is used as the main support needs assessment. It is combined with a separate questionnaire about your personal and environmental circumstances. Together, these help build a fuller picture of how you live and what supports you need. This information is then used to help shape your NDIS plan and budget in a more consistent way. What This Means for You The NDIS says, for many participants, I-CAN v6 is expected to reduce the need for multiple external reports and shift the focus to everyday real-life experiences. While the rollout will be phased, it’s worth learning about I-CAN now so you’re comfortable with what to expect at your next review or planning meeting. As a participant, you can prepare by thinking about how you spend your day, where you need support, and what goals matter most to you. For more information, you can read the NDIA’s full update on Update - A new way of planning.

Over the past year, many NDIS participants and families have been hearing more about a new program called Thriving Kids. We briefly mentioned it in an earlier blog on early intervention, and since then, questions have continued to grow, particularly about what it could mean for children with developmental delay or autism.  The program has been in development for some time. Although it was expected to start earlier, the rollout was delayed while governments worked through the finer details. With more information now available, here is what we know so far and what families can expect.  What is Thriving Kids?  Thriving Kids is a new government program designed for children aged 8 and under who have developmental delay or are on the autism spectrum, with low to moderate support needs. These supports sit outside the NDIS and are commonly referred to as foundational supports.  It aims to help children and families access support earlier, without having to apply for the NDIS straight away. The focus is on practical, timely assistance that supports development, everyday participation, and family wellbeing, rather than requiring a formal diagnosis before support can begin.   The government has committed $4 billion over five years to establish the program, with funding shared between the Australian Government and state and territory governments. At least $1.4 billion from Commonwealth will go directly to states and territories, which means most services will be delivered through existing local systems.  Children with permanent and significant disability, including those with higher support needs, will still be eligible for the NDIS under current arrangements.  How the Program is Expected to Work  Thriving Kids is designed around a straightforward, staged approach to make it easier for families to navigate and access support.  The first stage is identification. Developmental concerns may be noticed by parents or carers, early learning educators, schools, GPs, or other health professionals. The idea is to respond sooner, rather than waiting until a diagnosis is confirmed.  The second stage focuses on connection. Families will be supported to find the right services through clearer referral pathways, online directories, and access to professionals working within the Thriving Kids framework.  The third stage is support. Services are expected to include parent-led, community-based, and more targeted supports delivered by allied health professionals and early childhood workers. This may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, group programs, and peer support. Families can move between different levels of support over time as a child’s needs change.  What happens next?  Thriving Kids was originally expected to begin earlier, but the rollout has now been confirmed to start from 1 October 2026. Services will be introduced progressively, with the program expected to be fully in place by 1 January 2028.  This timeline matters because changes to how children access the NDIS are not expected until Thriving Kids services are available nationally. Children who enter the NDIS before 2028 will continue to be supported, subject to usual reassessment processes.  If your child is already an NDIS participant, nothing changes right now. For families with younger children who are not on the NDIS, Thriving Kids is intended to provide another pathway to early support, alongside existing mainstream and community services.  Some details are still being finalised, including how services will operate across different regions and how workforce capacity will be managed. We’ll keep following developments and share updates as more information becomes available.  Read the full update on Thriving Kids .

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

If your organisation is closing, leaving the NDIS market, or stopping a specific service, your responsibilities don’t end right away. You must still follow the NDIS Practice Standards, Code of Conduct, and all notification requirements until your services officially finish. Good planning and clear communication help participants move smoothly to new supports and keep your organisation compliant. Here’s what you can do: Notify the NDIS Commission of significant changes or events If your organisation is closing, becoming insolvent, losing key staff, or facing any issue that affects your ability to deliver registered supports, you must tell the NDIS Commission as soon as possible. Use the “Notify us of changes or events” form on the Commission’s website. Plan for a safe and smooth transition You must plan to make sure supports continue where possible. Work with participants to create written transition plans that outline next steps, identify risks (like support gaps), and confirm alternative arrangements. Communicate clearly and provide handover information Give participants written notice with clear end dates and replacement options. For services such as Support Coordination or therapy, include a short handover summary with their goals, progress, reports, and recommendations to help the next provider continue their support smoothly. Finalise billing and records properly End all service bookings on or before the agreed date. Issue final invoices or receipts and keep accurate records of the supports you delivered. Make sure all claims follow NDIS pricing rules, NDIA payment requirements, and Australian Consumer Law. Keep your complaints process open Maintain a working complaints process until your exit is complete. Respond to any participant concerns promptly. Let participants know they can also contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission on 1800 035 544 for further help. Include emergency and closure contingencies in policies Have plans that cover emergency and disaster scenarios to make sure critical supports continue. Staff should be trained and aware of their roles during such events. Final Thoughts Exiting the NDIS or ending services is not just a business decision, it is a regulated process that protects participants and ensures quality. By planning ahead, working with participants, and communicating clearly, you can manage your exit responsibly and respectfully. Taking the time to prepare and communicate clearly not only meets your compliance obligations but also builds trust and confidence within the NDIS community.

When a NDIS participant’s plan doesn’t meet their needs, it can cause frustration and confusion. Sometimes, this might lead to an appeal. While appeals are an important part of the NDIS process, they can also be stressful and take time for both participants and providers.  As a provider, you play an important role in helping participants avoid the need for an appeal. Here are some simple ways on how you can help.  1. Help participants set clear goals  Many participants rely on their providers to help them describe what they want to achieve. Take time to talk about their goals and make sure they’re clear and specific. When goals are specific, it’s easier for NDIA planners to understand how the supports you provide help the participant reach those goals. This makes it less likely that funding will be misunderstood or missed in their plan.  2. Write clear, evidence-based reports  Good reports can make a big difference. When writing reports or recommendations, keep them clear, factual, and easy to read. Link each support directly to the participant’s goals and explain how it helps them in their daily life or builds their skills.  Use examples wherever possible and include what might happen if the support isn’t funded. Reports written in plain language with clear outcome help NDIA planners understand the purpose and value of each support.  3. Encourage open and honest communication  Remind participants that their planning meeting is a chance to talk about what’s working, what’s not, and what’s changed since their last plan. Encourage them to raise concerns early and offer to share supporting information if it helps. Open and honest communication can prevent misunderstandings and help create a plan that truly fits their needs.  4. Keep track of progress and changes  Participants’ needs and goals often change over time. Regularly reviewing progress and keeping records helps make sure supports stay relevant. If you notice a change in a participant’s needs, update your documentation and discuss it before their next review. Taking these steps early helps prevent issues that could lead to appeals later on.  5. Work collaboratively with plan managers and support coordinators  Working closely with plan managers and support coordinators helps create a smoother experience for participants. Plan managers can help participants monitor their budgets and spending, while support coordinators can help gather evidence and prepare for reviews.   In summary  Many NDIS appeals can be avoided through good communication, clear evidence, and proactive planning. As a provider, your role in supporting participants and helping them prepare well can make the process smoother and more positive for everyone.  At First2Care, we work closely with providers and participants to make plan management simple, transparent, and stress-free. Together, we can help participants get the most out of their NDIS funding and prevent unnecessary appeals.

In October, the NDIA released a new Operational Guideline (OG) for Therapy Supports and announced updates to the Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits (PAPL), which have taken effect from 24 November 2025.  These updates outline how therapy supports should be delivered, billed, and reviewed under the NDIS. For therapy providers, understanding these changes is key to staying compliant, sustainable, and aligned with best practice. Key changes in the new Therapy Supports Operational Guideline  The new OG sets clearer expectations for what the NDIA considers a therapy support, what evidence is required and how therapy should be delivered. Here are the main points you need to know:  Evidence-based supports only:  Therapy must be backed by research, shown to be effective and clearly linked to the participant’s goals.  Capacity building vs maintenance therapy:  Providers need to show whether therapy helps build new skills or maintain existing ones, as this affects funding decisions.  Early childhood therapy expectations:  Therapy for young children should follow the  National Best Practice Framework for Early Childhood Intervention , which focuses on teamwork, family involvement, and using a key worker model.  Allied health students and assistants:  Students can deliver supports under supervision if the supervising therapist’s insurance covers them. Allied health assistants can provide supports as long as supervision rules are followed.  Clearer guidance on non-billable activities:  General or pre-recorded online programs that are not personalised to the participant cannot be claimed under the NDIS.  Stronger focus on therapy outcomes:  Reports should clearly show progress to support future plan reviews.  What’s changing in the PAPL from 24 November 2025  The PAPL update also includes changes specific to therapy supports. These include:  Reduced price limits for some disciplines. For example, art and music therapy now have a lower hourly rate.  Updated use of the “Other Professional” item. This code can only be used by disciplines not already listed, and only if they meet the qualification, registration and evidence-based criteria in the PAPL.  These changes may affect how you set your rates, bill for supports and write your service agreements. If you deliver art or music therapy, it’s important to review your pricing and discuss any updates with participants and plan managers.  What providers can do  Review therapy programs to ensure they meet evidence-based and outcome-focused requirements.  Check documentation and reports for clear progress measures.  Update rates and agreements to reflect the new therapy price limits.  Confirm that qualifications and billing practices meet the NDIA’s updated definitions.  Communicate any changes early and clearly with participants and plan managers.  Final word  These updates represent a shift in how therapy supports are funded, delivered and reviewed under the NDIS. Your role as a provider stays the same, supporting people with disability to build skills, independence and participation. What is changing is how you show the impact of your work, how you bill for it and how it fits into a participant’s plan.  At First2Care, we understand that updates to guidelines and pricing can affect both providers and participants. If you would like help understanding how these changes may affect your invoicing, service delivery or how you work with participants, please feel free to reach out.  For more information, you can read the NDIA’s full update on  Therapy supports  and Updated NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 .

Accessing the right supports can be difficult if you live in a regional or remote area, or if there just aren’t enough local providers offering the services you need. The good news is that you don’t have to miss out on therapy, plan management, or capacity building supports just because they are not nearby. Telehealth can help fill that gap.  Here’s how you can find and make the most of telehealth options under the NDIS.  What is Telehealth?   Telehealth lets you connect with your provider using phone, video calls, or online platforms instead of face-to-face sessions. It’s commonly used for supports like psychology, speech therapy, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, and behaviour support.  Many providers now offer telehealth as part of their standard service, especially for participants who live far from major cities or have difficulty travelling.  When Local Services Aren’t Available   If you’ve tried to look for a local provider but can’t find one, or if waitlists are too long, telehealth can be a practical alternative. Here’s what you can do:  Talk to your Support Coordinator or First2Care  These providers can help you find NDIS-registered providers who offer telehealth in your support category. Some providers may even have a mix of local and online staff.  Use the NDIS Provider Finder or online directories  You can search for providers by service type and filter by “telehealth” or “online appointments.”  Ask providers directly  Even if a provider’s website doesn’t mention telehealth, it’s worth asking. Many are flexible and willing to work with you remotely.  Check if the service suits your needs  Not every support are suitable for telehealth. Some physical therapies, for example, may still need in-person sessions. Talk to your provider about whether they can offer a mix of online and face-to-face options when needed.  Tips for a Smooth Telehealth Experience   Test your setup:  Make sure your internet connection is stable and you have a quiet space for your session.  Be prepared: Treat it like an in-person appointment. Have your notes, reports, or equipment ready.  Give feedback:  If something isn’t working well, let your provider know. They can adjust how they deliver the session or use other tools.  Final Thoughts   Telehealth gives you more choice and control when local services aren’t available. It helps you stay connected with your supports and continue working towards your goals, wherever you are.  If you’re not sure where to start, First2Care can help you explore telehealth options, explain how costs are charged under your NDIS plan, and make sure your funding is used in the best way possible.

When your NDIS plan doesn’t turn out the way you expected, it can feel frustrating and confusing. Maybe the funding isn’t enough for the supports you need, or a request for review didn’t go as planned. In some cases, people decide to lodge an appeal, which is your right as an NDIS participant. But appeals can take time and energy.  The good news is that with clear planning and the right support, you can often avoid needing to appeal at all. Here are some simple ways to reduce the risk.  Start with clear goals   Before your planning meeting or review, take time to think about what you really want to achieve. Your goals guide your funding, so they need to be clear and specific. For example, you might want to live more independently, find work, or build social connections.  The NDIS can only fund supports that are reasonable and necessary. This means the support must be related to your disability, good value for money, and likely to help you reach your goals. Clear goals make it easier for your planner to connect the right supports and funding to your needs.  Gather strong evidence   The NDIA relies on evidence to decide what supports to include in your plan. Reports from your therapists, doctors, or support providers can help explain how certain supports improve your daily life.  Ask your providers to write reports that are easy to understand and clearly link to your goals. They should also explain what could happen if the support isn’t funded. This information helps the NDIA see why each support is important.   Communicate openly during planning   Your planning meeting is your chance to be clear about what’s working, what’s not, and what’s changed since your last plan. If something isn’t clear, ask questions. If your situation has changed, share that information. Open communication helps ensure your plan reflects your current needs and reduces the chance of misunderstandings later on.  Review your plan regularly   Your circumstances, goals, or supports may change over time. You don’t need to wait for your plan to end to ask for help. If something doesn’t seem right, you can request a plan reassessment (also called an internal review) within three months of getting your plan. Acting early gives you more time to resolve issues before they turn into a full appeal.  Get the right support   You don’t have to manage everything on your own. A plan manager can help you understand your budget, keep track of spending, and prepare for reviews. A support coordinator can help you gather evidence and communicate clearly with the NDIA.  In Summary  NDIS appeals can be difficult, but many can be avoided through good planning, clear goals, strong evidence, and open communication. Taking the time to prepare well helps you make the most of your plan and reduces the need for appeals later.  At First2Care, we’re here to help you manage your plan with clarity and confidence. If you have questions about using your funding or preparing for your next review, our friendly team is ready to help.

Sometimes providers might close, lose registration, or stop offering a particular service. As a NDIS participant, you’re entitled to safe, continuous supports and clear information during any transition. The NDIS Practice Standards require providers to plan transitions and help keep your supports going wherever possible.  Here’s what you can do:  Check your Service Agreement (notice periods and exit terms)  Your agreement should include notice periods, how changes are handled, and what happens in emergencies. If you don’t have one yet, ask your provider or your plan manager to give you a copy.   Ask for a written transition plan  Your provider should coordinate with you to plan the move. This plan should explain each step, identify any risks (such as gaps in daily supports), and be provided in writing.   Line up replacement supports  You can change providers at any time, depending on the notice period in your service agreement. If you have a Support Coordinator, they can help manage the handover of goals, progress, risks, and reports to the new provider, so the change is smoother.   Keep your payments organised  Make sure any active service bookings or invoices end on the agreed end date. Keep copies of final invoices and communications. Your NDIS plan and funding stay the same even if you move to a new provider.  Speak up if something feels wrong  If you’re worried or something doesn’t seem right, talk to your provider first. If the issue isn’t fixed, contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission online or by calling 1800 035 544. If you ever feel unsafe, call 000.   Where to get help  You don’t have to manage this alone. Our team at First2Care, can help you pause or cancel payments, check that invoices stop on time, and connect you with new providers who meet your needs. We can also guide you through the paperwork and make sure your funding keeps working for you without any disruptions.  Your Local Area Coordinator (LAC) or the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) can also support you during this time. They can help you find registered providers and adjust service bookings.  Final Thoughts  When a provider exits, it can feel stressful or confusing, but you still have choice and control. Your NDIS plan stays yours, and your support doesn’t have to stop just because a provider does.  With the right help and planning, you can keep your support running smoothly and confidently move forward with a provider who fits your goals and needs.

When you’re delivering NDIS supports, it’s important to work in a way that’s clear, professional, and transparent. One of the best ways to do this is by having a service agreement in place. But what exactly does it cover, and do you really need one? Let’s clear it up. What is a Service Agreement? A service agreement is a written document between you and the participant that sets out what supports you’ll deliver, how they’ll be delivered, and how much they’ll cost. It’s essentially a tool to make sure you and the participant are always on the same page. Service agreements aren’t compulsory for most supports under the NDIS, but they are strongly recommended. In fact, if you’re providing Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), a written service agreement is required. For all other supports, having one is best practice as it protects both you and the participant by making sure everything is clear upfront. What Should be in a Service Agreement? Your service agreement doesn’t need to be complicated. Simple and clear is best. While each service agreement will look a little different, the important details usually cover: Your business name, the participant’s name, and contact details The type of supports and services you’ll deliver Where, when, and how often the supports will be delivered The cost of supports, including any additional charges like travel How to make changes or end the agreement Your cancellation terms, in line with NDIS Pricing Arrangements How problems or complaints will be handled Both you and the participant (or their nominee or guardian) sign the document, and each of you should keep a copy. Importantly, if a nominee or guardian is signing on behalf of the participant, you should verify their legal authority to do so. Why it Matters One of the biggest benefits of a service agreement is that it helps establish trust and clarity with participants. Having everything set out in writing reduces the risk of misunderstandings and gives you a clear reference point if something changes or doesn’t go to plan. If you provide a standard agreement, take the time to explain it in plain language so the participant understands what they’re signing. Be open to making changes where needed to ensure the agreement works for them. It’s a small investment of time that can make a big difference in your working relationships.

When you’re using your NDIS funding, it’s important to feel confident and in control. One way to do that is by having a service agreement in place. But what does it actually mean, and do you really need one? Let’s clear it up.  What is a Service Agreement?  A service agreement is a written document between you and your provider that sets out what supports you’ll receive, how they’ll be delivered, and how much they’ll cost. It’s essentially a tool to make sure you and your service provider are always on the same page.  Service agreements aren’t compulsory for most supports under the NDIS, but they are strongly recommended. In fact, if you’re accessing Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA), a written service agreement is required. For all other supports, having one is best practice as it protects both you and your provider by making sure everything is clear upfront.  What Should be in your Service Agreement?  Your service agreement doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple and clear is best. While each service agreement will look a little different, the important details usually cover:  Your name, your provider’s name, and contact details  The type of supports and services you’ll receive  Where, when, and how often the supports will be delivered  The cost of supports, including any additional charges like travel  How to make changes or end the agreement  The provider’s cancellation terms, in line with NDIS Pricing Arrangements  How problems or complaints will be handled  Both you (or your nominee or guardian if you have one) and your provider both sign the document, and you each keep a copy.  Why it Matters  One of the biggest benefits of a service agreement is that it gives you choice and control. You get to see, in writing, exactly what you can expect from your provider and what’s expected from you. That way, if something changes or doesn’t go to plan, you’ve got a clear reference point.  If your provider gives you a standard agreement, take the time to review it. You can ask for changes if something doesn’t work for you. You can also bring along a trusted person to help you go through it.  As your plan manager, First2Care always recommends keeping copies of your agreements and sharing them with us if you’d like us to help track your budgets, make sure invoices match your agreement, and support you in getting the most from your plan.

As of October 20, 2025 , the NDIS has announced an update in the name of ‘Short Term Accommodation’, and it is now described as ‘Short Term Respite’. This updated name better reflects the purpose of the support: to give participants and their primary informal support time apart, allowing carers, family members or friends to take a short break and recharge. While some in the community have mixed feelings about the word ‘respite’, it’s widely recognised and well-understood among carers. After considering all feedback, the NDIA chose the term ‘short term respite’ as the most accurate way to describe this kind of support. What Short Term Respite Is For Short term respite is designed for participants who live with or receive daily support from their informal supports. For children, it’s funded only when the child’s disability support needs go beyond what’s typical for their age, and when the support helps the family continue caring effectively. This support isn’t for participants who already have significant paid supports, such as Supported Independent Living, or for general activities like holidays or attending events. Instead, short term respite provides a clean, comfortable environment (which might be at home, in a hotel, a cabin, or another suitable setting) where participants continue receiving the same level of support they usually have at home. How It Is Funded and Used Participants have choice and control over how they utilise the support. It’s flexible and comes from the core budget. It can be used for up to 28 days each year, with a maximum of 14 days at a time, depending on individual needs and plan funding. . To learn more, the NDIS Short Term Respite Guideline  has been updated to explain in further detail (with examples): who can use short term respite what it includes how and where it can be used how decisions are made If you’re unsure about your eligibility or how to include short term respite in your plan, contact your my NDIS for guidance and support.