As of 19 May, the way NDIS plan funding is released has changed! If you’re an NDIS participant, provider, support coordinator, or plan manager, it’s important to understand how these changes could impact how and when you access NDIS funding. Don’t be alarmed! This update doesn’t reduce how much funding you receive, but it does change when and how you can access it. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about NDIS funding periods and how to manage your plan under the new system. What are NDIS Funding Periods? Funding periods are a new way the NDIS releases plan funding over time. Instead of receiving your full budget upfront, funds are now released gradually in smaller amounts. Here’s what you need to know: A funding period is a set timeframe during which a portion of your NDIS budget is available Most new and reassessed plans will have three-month funding periods You can only spend funds released in the current or previous period The funding period system initially applies to new and reassessed NDIS Plans. This change is designed to support more consistent budgeting and reduce the risk of running out of funds too early. How Funding Periods work Your NDIS plan still includes the same total funding amount which is the overall budget you receive for all your supports. The difference now is in how and when you can access it. The process works like this: A portion of your funding is released at the start of each period Once that period ends, the next portion becomes available Unspent funds roll over to the next period within the same plan Providers can claim for supports delivered in a previous period, as long as the dates fall within your active plan. Tip: Funding periods don’t reduce your total budget, they only affect the timing of when you can access funds. NDIS funding components The NDIS still divides funding into three main components (previously known as budget categories): Core – for everyday activities and supports Capacity Building – for building skills and independence Capital – for large, one-off purchases like assistive technology or home modifications. Each component may follow its own funding period, depending on the type of support and how it’s delivered. Different rules for different supports Some supports are treated differently under the new system, particularly Home and Living supports and high-cost services. What to expect: Plans that include Home and Living supports will have monthly funding periods (12 per year) Supported Independent Living (SIL) and other high-cost services may also follow monthly periods For large purchases (eg a custom wheelchair), additional funds may be released at the start of the plan. Managing your funding across periods With these changes, effective budget planning is more important than ever. Key points to remember: Unused funds within a plan roll over to the next funding period Funds don’t carry over to a new plan once your current plan ends You can’t access funds from a future period early In urgent situations, the NDIA may bring forward funds, but your total plan budget will not increase. Tracking your Funding Periods You can track your funding periods and usage in the NDIS participant portal. This includes: How much of your budget is available How much you’ve spent When the next funding release is due. With your consent, your plan manager and support coordinator can also view this data in the provider portal to help support your planning and spending. Getting help and support The introduction of funding periods marks a major shift in how the NDIS operates. If you’re unsure how this shift affects your specific situation, help is available: Work with your support coordinator to understand your spending patterns and plan adjustments Speak with your plan manager about managing cash flow between periods Contact the NDIA if you have urgent funding needs that can't wait for the next period Visit the official NDIS website for the latest updates and detailed guidance. And remember, these changes are designed to support you in achieving your goals while maintaining better control over your funding.