The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is undergoing a major overhaul, with plans to computerize the funding and support process for participants. This shift will significantly reduce human involvement in decision-making, raising concerns among disability rights groups and NDIS staff. The changes, set to be implemented in mid-2026, will impact participants' rights to appeal funding decisions, with the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART) losing the authority to alter plans or reinstate funding. Instead, the ART will send plans back to the NDIS for reassessment, a process that could be seen as less transparent and potentially less favorable for participants.
The overhaul introduces a new funding tool, the Instrument for Classification and Assessment of Support Needs (I-CAN) version 6, developed by the University of Melbourne and the Centre for Disability Studies. This tool will be used to determine funding for NDIS participants, aiming to simplify the process and reduce human error. However, some NDIS staff worry about the potential shortfalls in capturing participants' needs, especially those with psychosocial disabilities or those who distrust the government. The NDIA has acknowledged past mistakes, such as the failed attempt to introduce independent assessments, and is committed to learning from them.
The new model emphasizes the role of assessors, who will conduct semi-structured conversations to assess participants' needs. These assessors will be trained and accredited, with a focus on ensuring the quality of support plans. The process involves gathering information through assessments and questionnaires, which are then input into the I-CAN tool. Despite concerns, the NDIA believes this approach will provide a fairer and more consistent scheme for participants, reducing the need for participants to spend time and money on medical evidence.
