As the Executive Director of TFK, I wanted to reach out and give you a friendly update on some important NDIS changes that have taken effect since May. I know how much thought and love you put into everything — from therapy appointments to planning new goals — so let’s unpack what these updates mean for you and your family.
Quarterly Funding Periods
From 19 May 2025, for all new and reassessed plans, the NDIS is no longer releasing the full annual budget up front. Instead, funds will now be accessed in smaller instalments — most often every three months. While some supports and one-off items (like equipment or home modifications) might still come as a lump sum, therapy supports like physiotherapy, speech pathology, exercise physiology and occupational therapy will now fall under quarterly funding access.
The goal is to help families manage the budget more easily, avoiding that nerve-wracking stretch where you could suddenly run out of funding halfway through the year.
The total funding amount remains the same, but it’s distributed more evenly. It encourages more thoughtful planning and makes cash flow less of a headache — for both families and providers.
To ensure that your funding doesn’t run out during the plan period, we strongly encourage you to let your therapist know your budget and how you’re tracking.
Why Engaging with Your Therapist Matters More Than Ever
This is the time to connect with your therapist during a review, reassessment, or goal planning meeting and talk through what supports are most important for your child. Your therapist can help clarify progress, shape meaningful goals, and provide recommendations that align with your priorities.
If you need heavier support earlier — such as assessments, major equipment, or increased therapy — let your therapist know. They can assist you in requesting a variation or reassessment to ensure funding is aligned with your child’s needs.
If your current plan doesn’t reflect what your child needs when they need it, don’t hesitate to request a Section 47A variation or a Section 48 reassessment.
Price Guide Changes from 1 July 2025
There have been some bumps on the pricing side too:
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Psychology rates have increased, while physiotherapy, dietetics and podiatry saw reductions
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Travel fees are now capped at 50% of the provider’s hourly rate and limited to 30 minutes in metro areas (60 minutes in regional areas)
This will limit the distance therapists can travel to services outside metro areas or for clients who need travel-based sessions. Please reach out to discuss the most appropriate and sustainable options.
What You Can Do Right Now
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Check your plan’s funding structure. Is it quarterly? Monthly? Upfront?
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Map big costs against instalment timing. Heavy therapy blocks or equipment needs? Plan ahead.
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Log in to the PACE Portal regularly. Stay on top of your funding and what’s available.
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Talk to TFK. We’ll help align your therapy bookings with your funding cycle.
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Ask early if something needs to change. Don’t wait until funding runs out.
You’re Not Alone
Change can be tricky, but we’re here to support you every step of the way. At TFK, our goal is to make sure your child continues to thrive with the right supports in place and minimal administrative stress.
We’ll help you navigate the new quarterly funding periods, understand your plan, invoice correctly, and advocate if something feels unclear or restrictive.
How can we assist you to manage your funds and ensure your child receives the supports they need?
In response to the recent NDIS changes, we’ll be working more closely with you and your therapist through the following:
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Updated Service Agreements – These will reflect the new quarterly periods and outline the supports scheduled across each phase.
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Regular Parent Goal Setting Meetings
– For new clients, this will occur after your initial appointment.
– For current clients, these will take place at least every six months, or more frequently if your child’s needs change. -
Ongoing Review of COPM Goals – We’ll work with you to regularly assess progress and realign goals where needed.
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Support Plan Development – A tailored plan capturing your child’s goals, challenges, and the supports required to meet them.
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Individual Service Plan (ISP) – You’ll complete this with your therapist. It allows us to create holistic, collaborative therapy plans and assist in preparing your NDIS review reports.
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Transparency Around Non-Face-to-Face (NF2F) Supports – We’ll clearly highlight the essential behind-the-scenes work that supports your child’s care, including planning, documentation, and coordination.
Final Thoughts from Deb!
These NDIS updates reflect your feedback: many families found it tough to manage lump-sum budgets. Breaking things into instalments can be a blessing or a hassle, depending on how you use it. But I truly believe, with a bit of prep and good communication, it’s doable and could save you stress.
If you’re unsure about any of it or just want someone to run through your plan with you, please reach out. At TFK, we’re always happy to chat, clarify, and champion for what your child needs.
With warmth and support,
Debra Evans
