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# Understanding Levels of Support Needs in NDIS Planning (Beyond Package Levels) The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia is undergoing a significant transformation in how it assesses and plans for participants' support needs. This evolution marks a shift from typical support packages to more individualised assessments, reflecting a commitment to person-centred care and equitable resource allocation. As of March 2025, the NDIS supports [717,001 participants](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-published-march-2025), demonstrating its crucial role in providing disability support across the nation. The Australian Government has recognised the importance of this transition, [allocating $280 million over five years](https://ndis.gov.au/news/10581-new-tools-better-understand-participants-support-needs) for developing consistent and equitable methods to assess participant support needs and set budgets. This investment signals a commitment to improving the NDIS planning process and ensuring that participants receive the most appropriate support for their individual circumstances. ## Current and Future Support Categories Understanding the current support categories is essential for navigating the NDIS system. Under the existing framework, participants' plans allocate funding across three main areas: 1. Core supports (daily living, transport, social participation) 2. Capacity Building (8 sub-categories aligned to goals, including Support Coordination) 3. Capital (Assistive Technology, Home Modifications) These categories provide a structure for allocating resources and ensuring that participants receive comprehensive support across various aspects of their lives. However, the NDIS is not static, and changes are on the horizon to improve the system further. The [2025–26 NDIS Pricing Arrangement and Price Limits](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released) introduce several new support types and categories. Notable additions include: - "Recurring Transport" as a fourth support type - Six new support categories, including Home and Living and Behaviour Support These new categories are designed to provide more flexibility in spending and better reflect the diverse needs of NDIS participants. The introduction of these categories demonstrates the NDIS's commitment to evolving and adapting to meet the changing needs of participants. For a comprehensive overview of NDIS-funded services and supports, check out our [Ultimate Guide to NDIS-Funded Services and Supports](/posts/your-ultimate-guide-to-ndis-funded-services-and-supports-f10e9bc6). ## Individual Support Needs Assessments The NDIS is moving away from typical support packages towards a more individualised approach to assessing support needs. This shift is evident in the recent [co-design Working Groups](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10813-assessments-and-budgeting-co-design-working-group-meeting-april-2025) held in April and June 2025, which defined principles for the new budget model. These principles emphasise: - Individualisation - Transparency - Financial sustainability - Cultural safety - Clear communication Importantly, the Working Groups explicitly discarded "typical support packages" as a basis for budgeting, signalling a significant change in how support needs are assessed and funded. The NDIS planning process is becoming more nuanced, with a focus on understanding each participant's unique circumstances. For those preparing for their first NDIS planning meeting, our guide on [Navigating Your First NDIS Planning Meeting: A Friendly](/posts/what-to-expect-in-your-first-ndis-planning-meeting-23ef91a4) offers valuable insights. To help participants prepare effectively for planning conversations, we've created a resource on how to [Prepare for an NDIS Planning Conversation:](/posts/prepare-for-an-ndis-planning-conversation-using-llms-to-get-started-18635f7c) using AI tools to get started. It's also crucial to consider cultural factors in NDIS planning, especially for Indigenous Australians. Our article on [Cultural Considerations in NDIS Planning for](/posts/cultural-considerations-in-ndis-planning-for-indigenous-australians-d803fe12) Indigenous Australians provides important insights on this topic. For participants with complex support needs, understanding specific aspects of NDIS funding is crucial. Our guide on [Sleepover Shifts Under the NDIS: Duration,](/posts/understanding-sleepover-shifts-under-the-ndis-136e1081) provides detailed information on this important support type. To stay informed about the latest changes in NDIS assessment processes, read our analysis of [the Needs Assessment in the 2024 NDIS Reform Bill](/posts/understanding-the-needs-assessment-in-the-2024-ndis-reform-bill-0db54121). For those considering self-management of their NDIS funding, our guide on [Navigating Self-Management of NDIS Funding in 2024](/posts/navigating-self-management-of-ndis-funding-in-2024-c56c7246) offers valuable insights and tips. ## Challenges and Solutions in NDIS Planning While the NDIS is making significant strides in improving its planning and assessment processes, challenges remain. One of the primary issues is the complexity of documentation requirements for both participants and providers. NDIS Registered Providers must adhere to the [NDIS Practice Standards and Price Limits](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/working-provider/getting-paid/invoicing-and-record-keeping), with documentation requirements varying by support type. This can include service agreements, rosters, and case notes to evidence core, capacity building, and capital supports. To address confusion over documentation and price limits, the NDIS has published [clear invoicing guidance and examples](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/working-provider/getting-paid/invoicing-and-record-keeping). This resource aims to simplify the process for providers and ensure compliance with NDIS requirements. Another significant change is the introduction of the PACE (Participant Access and Care Experience) system. The [PACE system rollout commenced in June 2025](https://www.empowrd.com.au/ndis-pace-changes-in-may-2025-what-participants-and-providers-need-to-know), transitioning funding displays from lump sums to goal/timeline-aligned funding components and periodic funding release. This change aims to provide more transparency and flexibility in how funding is allocated and used. For those navigating the complex terminology of the NDIS, our [Decoding NDIS Acronyms: Your Essential Guide](/posts/ndis-acronyms-explained-v1-archived-1755160314638) can be a helpful resource. ## Conclusion and Future Outlook The NDIS is undergoing a period of significant reform, with a clear focus on improving individualised support and assessment processes. The success of these reforms is evident in the [increasing participant numbers and improved outcomes](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-published-march-2025), with 80% of long-term participants aged 15 and over reporting greater choice and control. Looking ahead to 2025-2030, the NDIS is committed to continuing its evolution. The [extension of existing partner agreements to June 2027](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10824-existing-partner-agreements-extended-june-2027) ensures continuity of support for participants through these reforms. As the NDIS continues to refine its processes and implement new assessment tools, participants can expect more personalised, flexible, and equitable support. The focus on individual needs assessment, rather than typical packages, promises a more tailored approach to disability support in Australia. For personalised guidance on navigating the NDIS and understanding your support needs, don't hesitate to engage with [Sandi AI](https://sandi.app), your virtual assistant for all things NDIS. ## References 1. [NDIS Quarterly Report published – March 2025](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10718-ndis-quarterly-report-published-march-2025) 2. [New tools to better understand participants' support needs](https://ndis.gov.au/news/10581-new-tools-better-understand-participants-support-needs) 3. [2025–26 NDIS Pricing Arrangement and Price Limits released](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released) 4. [Assessments and Budgeting co-design working group meeting April 2025](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10813-assessments-and-budgeting-co-design-working-group-meeting-april-2025) 5. [Invoicing and record keeping](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/working-provider/getting-paid/invoicing-and-record-keeping) 6. [NDIS PACE Changes in 2025](https://www.empowrd.com.au/ndis-pace-changes-in-may-2025-what-participants-and-providers-need-to-know) 7. [Existing partner agreements extended to June 2027](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10824-existing-partner-agreements-extended-june-2027)

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Understanding Levels of Support Needs in NDIS Planning (Beyond Package Levels)

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Understanding Levels of Support Needs in NDIS Planning (Beyond Package Levels)