⚠️ Ongoing situation — information subject to change
The proposed eligibility changes affecting children with autism are subject to significant ongoing advocacy, community concern, and potential legislative revision. This article reflects the situation as of August 2026. Always check ndis.gov.au and speak to your support coordinator for the most current advice.
If you're a parent of a child with autism, you've likely seen the headlines. The 2026 NDIS reforms include proposed changes that could affect whether some children with autism qualify for the NDIS — and the disability community has responded with significant concern. Here is what we know, what remains uncertain, and what you should do.
What Is Being Proposed?
Under the NDIS Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026, the proposed change is:
Children aged 8 and under with developmental delay and/or autism who have low to moderate support needs may no longer automatically qualify for the NDIS. Instead, they may be directed to Foundational Supports — a new, lighter-touch support system outside the NDIS.
Children with higher support needs are expected to continue accessing the NDIS. The threshold for "low to moderate" versus "higher" needs is one of the most contested aspects of the reform.
Why Is This Controversial?
Disability advocacy organisations including People with Disability Australia, Amaze, and others have raised serious concerns:
- •Early intervention evidence: Research strongly supports early, intensive intervention for children with autism — particularly before age 8. Removing NDIS access during this critical window could have lasting consequences.
- •Foundational Supports are not equivalent: The Foundational Supports system is still being established. There is no guarantee it will deliver the same intensity of support as the NDIS, and availability varies by state.
- •Diagnostic gatekeeping concerns: Some families worry that the distinction between 'low/moderate' and 'high' needs will unfairly disadvantage children who present well in assessments but struggle significantly at home.
- •Parliamentary opposition: A joint parliamentary human rights committee described some aspects of the changes as 'retrogressive' and out of step with the original NDIS Review recommendations.
What About Existing Plans?
If your child already has an approved NDIS plan, the current position is that existing plans should continue until the next scheduled review. The changes are most likely to affect:
- ⚠New NDIS applications from 2026 onwards
- ⚠Children whose plans come up for review under the new eligibility criteria
- ⚠Children who are re-assessed as part of the reform process
However, this is an evolving situation. Do not assume your child's plan is safe without checking with your support coordinator ahead of any upcoming review.
What Are Foundational Supports?
Foundational Supports are a new government-funded tier outside the NDIS — designed for people who need some support but don't meet the full NDIS eligibility threshold. For children with autism, this may include:
- •Early intervention programs through community organisations
- •Speech therapy and occupational therapy via mainstream services
- •Support for families and carers
- •Social skills programs and community participation
Important: Foundational Supports vary significantly by state and territory. The system is still being built. Check your state government's disability department for what is available in NSW.
What Can You Do Right Now?
Talk to your support coordinator
Ask them to review your child's current plan and flag any upcoming review dates. The sooner you know, the better you can prepare.
Gather and document evidence
Collect reports from your child's OT, speech therapist, paediatrician, and teachers. The stronger the evidence of support needs, the better placed you are at any review.
Stay connected to advocacy groups
Amaze (amaze.org.au), Autism Australia, and People with Disability Australia (pwd.org.au) are actively monitoring and responding to these changes. Their updates are essential reading.
Know your appeal rights
If your child's NDIS access is declined or reduced, you have the right to request an internal review and appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). Free advocacy support is available at dana.org.au.
Contact your local MP
This is a politically active issue. Sharing your family's story with your local federal MP is a legitimate and effective way to influence the outcome.
St Anastasia's Care and Autism Support
We support NDIS participants with autism across Sutherland Shire and the St George region — including community access, personal care, transport, and social participation. We match every participant with support workers who understand their communication style, sensory preferences, and daily routines.
If you have questions about your child's current supports, or want to understand your options as these changes unfold, we're happy to talk — no obligation.
“We know how much these changes worry families. Whatever happens with the NDIS, we're here — and we'll always do everything we can to help participants and families access the support they need.”
— Natasha, Founder & Director
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. The NDIS reforms are ongoing and subject to change. Always verify current information at ndis.gov.au. Full disclaimer →