A major change to how NDIS plans are funded is now in effect. From 19 May 2025, all new and reassessed NDIS plans will include funding periods—meaning your plan funds will no longer be released all at once.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what’s changing and how it affects you.
What Are Funding Periods?
Funding periods are a new way for the NDIS to release your plan budget gradually instead of providing the full amount upfront.
Here’s how it works:
- Each funding period is a set timeframe (usually three months).
- Only the funds from the current or previous periods can be used.
- Future funding will be unlocked as you progress through your plan.
- Unused funds from previous periods will roll over into the next.
This change is aimed at helping participants better manage their budgets and reduce the risk of under- or over-spending.
Top Tip: Funding periods do not reduce your total NDIS budget—they only change when you can access the money.
It is designed to ensure that dodgy providers will no longer be able to drain your NDIS funds in the first three months, leaving you with no money for the rest of your plan!
How Do Funding Periods Work?
When you receive a new or reassessed plan:
- Your plan still shows a total budget for the entire plan duration.
- Funds are split into smaller amounts and released in stages.
- At the start of each funding period, a portion of your funds is made available.
- Any unused funds from earlier periods are carried forward (but only within the current plan).
Providers can still claim for services delivered in past funding periods, as long as those services fall within your plan dates.
What Are Funding Components?
NDIS plan funding is divided into components (previously called budget categories), each designed to support different aspects of your life:
- Core Supports – Everyday activities and support services
- Capacity Building – Support to build your independence and skills
- Capital Supports – One-off purchases like assistive technology or home modifications
Each component may have different funding periods, which could be released at different times depending on the type of support.
How Do Funding Periods Apply to Different Supports?
Not all supports are treated equally. Here’s how funding periods vary:
- Home and Living supports (e.g., Supported Independent Living) may have monthly funding periods to match regular service delivery.
- High-cost supports are often released in monthly portions.
- Large one-off purchases (like a wheelchair or home modifications) may receive full funding upfront at the start of your plan.
This ensures funds are better aligned with how and when supports are delivered.
Managing Your Budget Across Funding Periods
Funding periods are designed to encourage steady, planned use of your supports. Here are some key rules to keep in mind:
- Unspent funds roll over to the next period, within the same plan.
- Funds won’t roll over to a new plan when yours ends—so it’s important to use them before your plan expires.
- You can’t access future period funds early—they are locked until the period begins.
- In urgent circumstances, the NDIA may bring forward funds, but this does not increase your overall plan budget.
Plan ahead: This model rewards careful planning and regular support use.
How to View Funding Periods in Your Plan
You can track your funding periods using the NDIS portal
You’ll be able to see:
- How much funding is available
- How much has been spent
- When the next portion of funds will be released
With your permission, Plan Managers and Support Coordinators (like us at NDIS Superhero!) can also view this info to help you stay on track.
Final Thoughts
NDIS funding periods are a big shift—but they’re designed to make managing your budget easier and more predictable. With the right Plan Manager, these changes can work in your favour.
Have questions about your new NDIS plan or how to manage funding across different periods? Get in touch with NDIS Superhero today—we’re here to help you stay in control of your supports and funding.
