The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) has officially brought the updated NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 into effect. These changes, which began on 24 November 2025, introduce new pricing structures, updated support categories, and revised guidance designed to create a more consistent and sustainable framework for both participants and providers.
Key Changes Introduced
The 2025-26 pricing update introduces several important adjustments across multiple support categories. One of the most notable changes involves revised pricing for art and music therapies, following extensive sector consultation and a review of their therapeutic impact. The aim of this adjustment is to ensure fair compensation for practitioners while maintaining reasonable value for participants.
Another significant update is the removal of the COVID-19 Addendum, including temporary support items that were introduced during the pandemic. These items are no longer required as the disability support sector returns to standard operating conditions. The removal streamlines the pricing catalogue and helps simplify claiming requirements for providers.
Updates have also been made to the Modified Monash Model (MMM) classification system, which affects remote and regional loadings for travel and service delivery. These pricing loadings help ensure participants in regional, rural, and remote areas continue to receive equitable access to supports, while recognising the higher operational costs providers face in these locations.
Additionally, the Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) pricing and cost calculator have been updated to reflect changes in broader cost-of-living factors and adjustments to the Disability Support Pension. These updates help maintain fairness and sustainability within the housing market for people with disability who require specialised accommodation.
The Assistive Technology, Home Modifications and Consumables Guide has also been revised. The changes clarify what items are claimable, refine definitions, and streamline categories to make it easier for participants and providers to understand how supports can be purchased within NDIS plan budgets.
What the Update Means for Participants
Although these pricing changes do not automatically alter participants’ existing funding levels, they can influence how budgets are used. Participants are encouraged to review their service agreements and discuss any price-related adjustments with their providers. While most supports will continue unchanged, some items may shift in price or require updated agreements to remain compliant with the new pricing framework.
Participants who rely on supports affected by the updated pricing—such as therapy services or remote-area supports—should take this opportunity to check how the adjustments may impact their ongoing services.
What Providers Need to Do
Providers are required to align their billing, invoicing, and service agreements with the updated price limits. This may involve revising existing agreements or updating internal systems to ensure compliance. Providers who do not follow the updated pricing rules may face rejected claims or delays in receiving payment.
Looking Ahead
The NDIA conducts pricing reviews annually to ensure the scheme remains financially sustainable and responsive to the needs of participants. The 2025-26 pricing arrangements reflect the NDIA’s commitment to continual refinement, transparency, and evidence-based policy.
Both participants and providers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new arrangements and take proactive steps to ensure a smooth transition under the updated pricing structure.
