Shaping the Future of NDIS for Children and Young People
The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is currently undergoing a significant period of reflection and review, specifically regarding how it supports our youngest and most vulnerable participants. For families navigating the system, this is more than just a procedural update—it is a critical opportunity to influence change. The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has issued a direct call for families, carers, nominees, and child representatives to engage in co-design workshops, signalling a shift towards a more collaborative approach to policy-making.
At Plan and Grow, we understand that raising a child with complex needs comes with its own set of joys and struggles. We believe that stability is the foundation of growth, and attaining that stability begins with a system that truly listens. This month, we’re diving into why these proposed changes matter to families like yours – and how your voice matters to help shape the future of disability support in Australia.
It’s Time to Have Your Say
The NDIS is currently reviewing its approach to supporting children and young people. This initiative acknowledges that the current "one-size-fits-all" model does not always account for the nuanced developmental needs of children versus adults. The early years are a crucial window for childhood development, where the right support at the right time can fundamentally change a child’s trajectory.
This is not just a generic update or a bureaucratic exercise; it is a genuine invitation for collaboration. The NDIS wants to know "what works (and what doesn't work)" so they can shape policies that fit the reality of raising a child with a disability. Whether you are an NDIS participant, a parent, or a carer, your lived experience is the most valuable data the Agency has. By sharing your story, you help ensure that future policies are grounded in reality rather than theory.
What is Changing?
The current consultation is broad but targeted, looking deeply at three key areas that often cause friction for families: "better early connections," the process of "applying for the NDIS," and "specific support for children and families."
For many, the journey begins with noticing developmental delays and the often-daunting task of seeking a diagnosis. The review aims to streamline how families access early intervention supports, ensuring that help is available when it makes the biggest difference. The goal is to move away from a deficit-based model towards one that celebrates capacity building and family strengths.
The Opportunity for You. This is your chance to share your "ideas, outcomes, and strategies" directly with decision-makers. We encourage you to reflect on your own "pain points" to provide constructive feedback:
- Was the process of determining NDIS eligibility clear and accessible?
- Did early intervention support happen fast enough for your child?
- Did you feel supported in understanding the Support Coordinator role and how they could assist your family in navigating the system?
Bringing these stories to the table ensures that the new framework is built on empathy and practical necessity.
Why Stability Matters Now: The "Better Care" Standard
While the NDIS works on shaping future policies, families need support today. We know that children cannot wait for policy reviews to finish before they start growing, learning, and developing. This is where the philosophy of your provider becomes critical.
At Plan and Grow, we believe that stability is the foundation of growth. While we welcome improvements to the scheme, we do not wait for policy changes to implement high standards of care. We strictly adhere to the "Better Care, Better Services" framework to ensure consistency and safety for every young person we support.
This framework is built on a person-centred and trauma-informed approach. It means we prioritise creating safe, predictable environments where young people can thrive. Our approach tosupport for children and young people goes beyond basic care; it focuses on empowering youth to know their rights and have their voice heard.
Our support workers are not just there to fill shifts; they are there to build relationships. Whether it is helping a child engage with their community or assisting a young adult in building life skills, the goal is always to foster independence. This aligns perfectly with the NDIS's current goal of listening to families—we believe that empowerment should start in the home, every single day.
Navigating the System Together
Understanding the distinction between a Services Coordinator and other support roles, or navigating the complexities of plan reviews, can be overwhelming. However, you don't have to do it alone. The fundamental goal of the NDIS is to help people live their best lives, and having a knowledgeable partner by your side can transform the experience from one of stress to one of opportunity.
We encourage you to look at these upcoming changes not with apprehension, but with hope. By participating in the co-design process, you are helping to build a system that respects the dignity and potential of every child living with disabilities.
How to Get Involved
For the NDIS: If you want to contribute to this important conversation, we strongly encourage you to take action now. The NDIS is currently seeking specific feedback on improving service agreements to make them simpler and more transparent for everyone.
This consultation is a vital opportunity to have your say on how services are agreed upon and delivered. Please note that this consultation closes on 31 March 2026, so we urge you to share your thoughts before the deadline.
Click here to join the consultation on Improving Service Agreements
For Plan and Grow: While you help shape the future of the NDIS, let us help shape a stable present for your child. If you are looking for a provider that prioritises child protection, stability, and genuine connection, we invite you to learn more about our dedicatedSupport for Children and Young People.
Contact our Perth team
today to see how we can walk that journey with you.
