Consultation opens on proposed NDIS access changes
Media event date: 31 August 2026 Date published: 31 August 2026 Media type: Media release General public Australians are invited to help shape proposed changes to how people access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Consultation is now open on changes that will help make NDIS access decisions clearer, fairer and more consistent. This includes considering how a person’s functional capacity is assessed, what evidence should be used to support access decisions, and how future access decision-making processes could be designed.
The views and experiences of people with disability, families, carers, advocates, disability service providers and health professionals will inform the work of the Technical Advisory Group for NDIS functional capacity (TAG). This feedback will guide the TAG’s independent, evidence-based advice to governments. The TAG was established in July 2026 to support access reforms and strengthen the way NDIS access decisions are made.
It is co-convened by the Commonwealth Minister for Health, Disability and Ageing, the Hon Mark Butler MP, and the ACT Minister for Disability, Carers and Community Services, Ms Suzanne Orr MLA. The NDIS Review found the current access process can be unclear and inconsistent, including how access rules are applied in relation to permanence of disability and how disability affects a person’s everyday life.
These reforms will introduce a standardised approach to assessing functional capacity and move away from diagnosis as the primary means of determining NDIS eligibility. The consultation forms part of broader reforms to make the NDIS stronger, fairer and more sustainable, and return the scheme’s focus to the people it was designed to support – those with permanent and significant disability.
Consultation is open from 31 August to 2 October 2026. To make a submission, visit consultations.health.gov.au. Quotes attributable to Minister Butler: “A strong and sustainable NDIS relies on people having confidence that the scheme is supporting those in our community who need it most.
“This consultation is an opportunity for people with disability and the broader community to help shape a more transparent and consistent NDIS access process. “These reforms will secure the NDIS for future generations, ensuring it can continue to provide vital support to those who rely on it for decades to come.” Quotes attributable to Minister McAllister: “The best reforms are shaped by the people they affect, and this consultation is an opportunity to do just that.
“I want to hear from people with disability on how they want the proposed changes to look and operate. Their input is invaluable. “I am particularly keen to hear from people from a diverse range of backgrounds and communities.” Quotes attributable to TAG Co-Convenor Minister Suzanne Orr: “To be effective and sustainable, the work of the Technical Advisory Group must be informed by the experience and needs of people with disability, their families, carers and all who support them.
“I welcome the opportunity for community input to inform and guide the independent.” The Hon Mark Butler MP Senator the Hon Jenny McAllister Disability and carers Accessibility We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia, and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to them and their cultures, and to Elders both past and present. © Commonwealth of Australia