The government has announced changes to the NDIS. We want to know how they affect you.
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4 September 2025
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New NDIS changes - what we know so far

On Monday 20 August, NDIS Minister Mark Butler gave a speech outlining changes to the NDIS.

Here’s what he said:

  • The NDIS is growing faster than expected. It was originally meant to support around 410,000 people. It now supports almost 740,000 and is expected to reach one million by 2034.

  • The government wants to slow this growth to make the scheme “sustainable”.

  • The Minister said the scheme should focus on people with “significant and permanent” disability.

  • Nearly half of current participants are children under 15. The Minister said some of these children may not need full NDIS plans.

  • The government will create a new program called Thriving Kids, starting 1 July 2026, with $2 billion in funding. It is aimed at supporting children with developmental delay and mild to moderate autism outside the NDIS.

  • Children already in the NDIS will stay on it.

 
 

The Minister also raised concerns about fraud and poor-quality services. Only 1 in 16 providers are registered. More than 600 fraud investigations are underway.
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Have your say - short community survey now open

These changes could have a big impact.

Thank you to everyone who’s already shared their story. We’re collecting feedback from people with disability, families, carers, workers and allies to take directly to Minister Butler.
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Opinion: Autistic Children Don’t Break the Budget. Broken Systems Do

In response to the announcement, Every Australian Counts Steering Committee member Heidi La Paglia has written an opinion piece raising her concerns about how Autistic children are being talked about in the NDIS debate. 

Key analysis from Dr George Taleporos: What this means for the community

Dr George Taleporos, Independent Chair of Every Australian Counts, has published a detailed breakdown of what these announcements could mean.

He welcomes a focus on fraud prevention but cautions that cost-cutting must not override participants’ rights. He also raises questions about how the new growth targets, eligibility changes and provider rules will affect choice and control - the core principles of the NDIS.

What happens next

We’ll keep pushing for more information from the government - and making sure your feedback is heard. We’ll pass what you tell us straight to Minister Butler. You can:

If this news is upsetting, you’re not alone. Free, confidential help is available:

 
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