Recently, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) transitioned many participants to a quarterly funding cycle—a significant shift from the existing annual funding structure. This change aims to improve fund management, support flexibility, and enhance participant oversight. If you or someone you support is part of the NDIS, here’s what you need to know.
Why Is the NDIS Moving to Quarterly Funding?
This adjustment is part of the NDIS Review reforms aimed at making the scheme more responsive and sustainable. By distributing funds every three months instead of once a year, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) hopes to:
- Improve fund tracking and reduce the risk of over- or under-spending
- Enhance transparency and accountability in spending
- Help participants adjust supports as their needs change
- Strengthen provider engagement and reduce financial mismanagement
How Will It Affect You?
If your NDIS plan renews after 1 July 2025, you may be moved to a quarterly funding cycle.
However, not all participants will experience this immediately. People with more stable or lower-risk support needs might still receive annual funding. The NDIA will assess eligibility based on:
- Complexity of support needs
- Historical spending behaviour
- Type of plan management (e.g., self-managed vs NDIA-managed)
You will be notified during your planning meeting or via your NDIS portal.
Key Benefits of Quarterly Budgets
While this may feel like a significant change, quarterly funding offers several advantages:
Improved financial control: Helps prevent exhausting funds too early or leaving large surpluses.
Faster response to changing needs: Allows plan adjustments based on real-time usage.
Smarter provider payments: Encourages providers to align support with the participant’s actual funding capacity.
This model is already being piloted with psychosocial recovery coaches, showing early success in budget management and flexibility.
What Do You Need to Do?
If you’re transitioning to a quarterly cycle:
- Review your spending habits and understand how to allocate funds across 3-month periods
- Communicate clearly with your support providers to align their services with your revised budget
- Use digital tools like the NDIS app or NDIS portal to monitor your funding in real time.
- If you’re sure, talk to your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager.
What Do You Need to Do?
If you’re transitioning to a quarterly cycle:
- Review your spending habits and understand how to allocate funds across 3-month periods
- Communicate clearly with your support providers to align their services with your revised budget
- Use digital tools like the NDIS app or NDIS portal to monitor your funding in real time.
- If you’re sure, talk to your Support Coordinator or Plan Manager.
Still Have Questions?
At JANGO Community services, we’re here to help participants navigate these changes with confidence. Our experienced support team can assist you in understanding your budget, tracking usage, and ensuring your needs are met every step of the way.
Get Support with Your NDIS Journey
Need help adjusting to the new quarterly funding system? Contact Jango Community Services today for personalised guidance and planning support. We’re committed to making your NDIS experience smooth and empowering.
