One of the most significant — and least understood — recommendations from the NDIS Review is the concept of ‘Foundational Supports’. This is a proposed new tier of disability support that sits outside the NDIS itself, designed to help the many Australians with disability who do not qualify for the scheme. Here is what we know so far.
What Are Foundational Supports?
Foundational Supports are intended to be a new layer of mainstream disability support, funded jointly by the Commonwealth and state and territory governments, accessible to people with disability who do not meet NDIS eligibility requirements. The idea is that not everyone with a disability needs the intensive, individualised funding model of the NDIS — but many people do need some level of support that is currently unavailable to them.
Who Would Benefit?
Foundational Supports are particularly relevant for:
- People with mild to moderate disability who do not meet NDIS access thresholds
- People with psychosocial disability who may need some support but not a full NDIS plan
- Children who may benefit from early intervention supports before formal NDIS eligibility is determined
- People who have been exited from the NDIS but still have some support needs
Where Is This Up To?
As of early 2025, the Foundational Supports strategy is still being developed. The Australian Government is working with states and territories to agree on how these supports will be funded, delivered, and governed. Public consultation has taken place, and further details are expected to be released progressively through 2025 and 2026.
This is an area we are watching closely at Azalea Care, as it has direct relevance for many of the people who contact us seeking help but who are currently not NDIS eligible.
If you have been told you do not qualify for the NDIS and are unsure where to turn, contact Azalea Care. We can help you explore what other supports may be available, and whether an NDIS access application might be worth pursuing.
