Changes to the NDIS can often feel uncertain, especially when thinking about how they may affect your child’s plan, supports, funding, and the way things are done.
In early 2026, the NDIA announced several upcoming changes, including a new system called Foundational Supports, which will sit outside of the NDIS. This includes a new program called Thriving Kids. There will also be changes to how plans are developed, with a new planning framework expected to roll out gradually from mid-2026.
Below is an overview based on information available as at 19 March 2026.
Nothing in the reforms suggests that children with hearing disabilities will be moved into Thriving Kids or Foundational Supports. Those programs are aimed at children with developmental or behavioural needs who don’t have a permanent disability and do not meet the access criteria.
These programs are for children without permanent disabilities or a diagnosis. Children with hearing loss meeting the access criteria stay in the NDIS.
Auslan is considered an essential communication support for children with hearing loss. Under the new planning framework, supports still need to be “reasonable and necessary,” and communication supports remain a core part of that. There’s no indication that Auslan access will be limited.
The NDIA is introducing a new planning framework, but the assessment tool for children under 18 hasn’t been finalised yet. Until then, the current processes continue. The intention of the new framework is to make planning more consistent and less dependent on individual planners – not to reduce supports.
The transition out of the Early Childhood Approach at age 9 will continue, but hearing loss remains a permanent sensory disability, so children will stay in the scheme. They will transition from the Early Childhood Approach into the school‑age pathway.
Click on the questions below to read the Q&A about the new framework planning (answers current as at 19th March 2026).
Answer:
Communication needs – including hearing loss, listening fatigue, access to spoken language, Auslan, and communication participation – must be considered as part of your child’s functional capacity and their ability to take part in daily life.
Under the NDIS Act, planners must consider how a child’s impairment affects communication, social interaction, learning, and safety.
Key point:
The new planning framework for under-18s is still being developed, so planners must continue using the current functional capacity approach.
References:
Answer:
Auslan, communication therapy, AAC, and other communication supports are funded when they meet the reasonable and necessary criteria.
The NDIA recognises communication supports as essential for children with hearing loss.
Key point:
There is no indication that Auslan access will be reduced under the new framework.
References:
Answer:
For children with hearing loss, the NDIA typically requires:
Families do not need unnecessary assessments.
Key point:
The new child assessment tool has not been released, so current evidence rules still apply.
References:
Answer:
School participation is a key part of assessing functional impact.
Planners must consider how hearing loss affects:
Key point:
School-based functional impact remains central to planning decisions, even under the upcoming framework.
References:
Answer:
School participation is a key part of assessing functional impact.
Planners must consider how hearing loss affects:
The NDIA must consider new information and update the plan if required.
Key point:
Families do not need to wait for the next annual review if needs change.
References:
