An eligibility reassessment is a check to make sure NDIS participants still meet the requirements to receive NDIS funding. According to NDIS guidelines, the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) can reassess eligibility if they have evidence suggesting an NDIS participant may no longer meet one or more of the eligibility criteria. This could include the residence, disability, or early intervention requirements. 

In late 2024, the NDIA began conducting significant numbers of eligibility reassessments. It is estimated that over 1,200 reassessments are being conducted weekly. Of these, 48% (or approximately 600 participants each week), are having their NDIS access revoked.

Eighty per cent of those receiving reassessment letters are children aged five to nine. The remaining 20 per cent are from other groups of participants, across a range of disabilities.

This report highlights the harm the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) eligibility reassessment process is causing families across the country.

A survey of more than 200 young people with disability and parents or caregivers revealed widespread experiences of emotional turmoil and fears about being removed from the Scheme despite proven need. 

Recommendations

1. Align the reassessment process with effective and accessible Foundational Supports.
2. Redesign a transparent, fair process for reassessments.
3. Communicate in a clear, timely, and accessible manner.
4. Clearly define what constitutes additional evidence and how it will be assessed.
5. Provide training and additional time for NDIA staff to deliver person-centred and individualised approaches.
6. Provide disability training to NDIA staff.