Navigating the 2026 NDIS Changes: What Melbourne Families Need to Know About Support Needs Assessments
As we move into early 2026, the NDIS landscape in Victoria is undergoing its most significant shift in a decade. With the introduction of the New Framework Planning, many Melbourne families are asking: "How will my support change, and what does this mean for my Behaviour Support Plan?"
At Gibelli Positive Pathways, we’ve been closely monitoring these reforms to ensure our participants in Werribee, Melton, and across the Western Suburbs stay ahead of the curve.
From "Functional" to "Support Needs": The 2026 Shift
The biggest change this year is the transition toward Support Needs Assessments. Unlike previous years where "expensive reports" were the primary focus, the NDIA is now using the I-CAN v6 tool (developed right here at the University of Melbourne) to determine flexible budgets.
What does this mean for you? Under the new framework, your budget will be more flexible, but the evidence required to justify that budget must be more precise. A robust Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) plan is no longer just a compliance document—it is now a vital piece of evidence that outlines exactly what your daily "disability-related support needs" look like in practice.
Victoria’s Safeguarding: The Senior Practitioner’s Role
While federal rules are changing, Victoria’s commitment to safety remains high. We continue to work hand-in-hand with the Victorian Senior Practitioner to ensure that all Behaviour Support Plans (BSPs) focus on the reduction of restrictive practices.
In 2026, the Senior Practitioner is emphasizing "The Right Direction"—a focus on quality of life and clinical integrity. Our practitioners are experts in:
BSP-QE II Compliance: Ensuring your plan meets the high-quality benchmarks set by the Victorian Government.
Authorised Program Officer (APO) Liaison: Streamlining the authorisation process so your support isn't delayed by paperwork.
Immediate Capacity in Melbourne’s West
We know that "reform fatigue" is real. With so many changes to NDIS laws, the last thing you need is a 6-month waitlist for a practitioner.
Gibelli Positive Pathways maintains immediate intake capacity for families in:
Werribee & Hoppers Crossing
Melton & Bacchus Marsh
Point Cook & Tarneit
Footscray & Sunshine
How We Help You Transition
Whether you are moving to a "New Framework Plan" this month or simply need to update your current strategies, we provide mobile, home-based assessments that capture the real-world data the NDIS now requires.
Ready to secure your 2026 support? Don’t wait for your plan review to find a practitioner. Let’s build a evidence-based pathway that protects your funding and improves your quality of life.
