Section 33 NDIS Explained: What Every Participant Needs to Know

July 15, 2025

Navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can feel overwhelming, especially when changes to the law impact how much funding you get and how you use it.

One of the most important updates you need to know about is the change to Section 33 of the NDIS Act. This key section shapes how participant plans are created, how budgets are set, and how funding is accessed across Australia.

This blog will break down exactly what Section 33 is, what recent changes mean for you, how they’ll affect your plan, and what you need to do next.

What is Section 33 of the NDIS Act?

Section 33 is part of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013. It spells out the key requirements every NDIS participant’s plan must include, like your goals, the supports you can get approved, and the budgeting rules around those supports.

Its purpose is to make sure every participant gets a plan that suits their unique needs, with clear funding and a transparent structure.

Why Did Section 33 Change? (And When?)

Recently, there’s been a nationwide review of the NDIS with the aim to improve transparency, fairness, and budget sustainability.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Act 2024, which started on 3 October 2024, brought in several big changes to Section 33.

These were designed to:

• Make NDIS plans clearer and easier to understand.
• Help you see exactly what funding you have, and how it’s divided up.
• Ensure your funding lasts for the whole plan period.
• Improve oversight, reduce fraud, and protect participants from running out of money too soon.

The Three New Pillars: How Funding Now Works

Section 33’s updates introduced three important concepts that now shape every new and reviewed NDIS plan:

Total Funding Amount

This is the big-picture number: the overall budget for all supports in your plan. Think of it as the “total pot” you have to fund your reasonable and necessary expenses over the plan period.

Funding Components

Your supports will be grouped into categories (now called funding components), similar to the old system, but with more clarity. Each component will have its own budget, making it easier to manage and track spending.

Common components include Core Supports, Capacity Building, and Capital Supports.

Funding Periods

Rather than all your money being available at once, it’s now released in installments across your plan period, these are called funding periods. This helps avoid overspending early on and ensures your funds last (and supports are available) for as long as your plan lasts.

In most cases, funding is released in 12-month periods for each plan, but this could change in future as the system adapts.

Looking for NDIS services in Blacktown, Central Coast, or Newcastle? At Interaction, our experienced team offers a full range of disability supports, from daily living assistance and community activities to allied health and behaviour support. We work with you to create a plan that matches your lifestyle and goals, making NDIS simple and empowering for you and your family.

What Triggers the New Section 33 Rules?

• Any new or reviewed NDIS plan after 3 October 2024 will operate under these rules.
• If you still have a plan created before this date, it runs under the old system until your next scheduled review or if you request a plan change.
• You’ll be notified by the NDIA when your plan transitions to the new framework.

How Will Section 33 Changes Impact Me?

Every participant is different, so your experience may vary. Here are the most important effects to expect:

Clearer, More Predictable Plans

You’ll know exactly how much funding is available, broken down by category and period. Your plan document and NDIA portal will show these amounts in plain English. This should cut confusion and help you confidently plan support for the year ahead.

More Structure, More Safeguards

By releasing funds over time, Section 33 limits the risk of running low on funds before your next review. It also helps stop exploitation and fraud. If you have a plan nominee or plan manager, they’ll get clear information to manage your funds responsibly.

Spending Flexibility with Safe Boundaries

Within each funding component and period, you have choice and control as always. If you don’t spend all the money in one period, it usually rolls over to the next (unless otherwise stated in your plan).

Tailored Funding Schedules

The NDIA decides how often your funding is released based on:

• How you’ve used your funding in past plans.
• Whether there’s risk of overspending or exploitation.
• Whether you prefer regular checks/updates.

Early Intervention and Support Pathways

Updates to Section 33 also clarify whether you meet “disability requirements,” “early intervention requirements,” or both, to help tailor your plan for your actual needs.

What If I Disagree with My Funding or Plan Details?

If you feel your new funding period is too short, or that your plan doesn’t meet your needs, you have a right to ask for a review (an internal NDIA review). You must request this within three months of getting your new plan.

If you’re still unhappy after the review, you can take your case to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal for an independent decision.

What Can Be Included (or Excluded) in My Plan Now?

The update introduces a clearer definition of “NDIS supports.” The law now points to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to guide what’s eligible.

Certain goods and services are specifically excluded from NDIS funding. The NDIA can also clarify or update these exclusions as the rules evolve.

If your support needs change, or if a substitute item would be more cost-effective (e.g., swapping an item for something similar), you can request a change, and the NDIA must consider it.

What Do Providers Need to Know?

Section 33 impacts how (and when) providers can deliver and bill for services:

• Providers need to tailor service delivery according to what funding is available for each period.
• If a participant’s monthly budget doesn’t cover all their services in one go, providers will need to plan services accordingly.
• Staying informed about the current status of each participant’s plan is essential.

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Tips for Participants

• Budget Carefully: Track your spending within each funding period so you don’t run out before the next release date.
• Stay Informed: Plans and policies are evolving, ask questions and check the NDIA website or your plan portal for updates.
• Connect with Support: If confused, reach out early to your plan manager, local community connector, or NDIA representative.
• Know Your Rights: If your plan doesn’t suit your needs, challenge it—reviews are there to protect you.

Ready to Make Sense of Your NDIS Plan?

With these changes, the NDIS aims to build a scheme that’s sustainable, transparent, and works better for people with a disability.

Section 33’s overhaul is just the beginning, other areas are being reviewed, and the sector will continue to evolve based on feedback from participants, families, and providers.

At Interaction Service, we’re here to help you understand your plan, manage funding changes, and get the support you need. If you have questions about Section 33, want to review your plan, or just need guidance, reach out to our team today. We’re committed to helping you make the NDIS work for you, every step of the way.

Got questions about your NDIS plan or the latest Section 33 changes? Contact us today for personal, expert support, let’s work together to get the most out of your NDIS journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my funding be reduced?

Section 33 changes aren’t about reducing supports but about improving clarity and safeguarding budgets throughout the plan period. The actual funding you get will still be based on a thorough assessment of your needs.

What if I need to access more funding before the next period?

Speak to your plan manager, support coordinator, or NDIA representative. You may be able to request a review or variation if your needs change unexpectedly.

Do I need to do anything right now?

• If you’re on an old plan, keep using it as normal until you’re advised you’ll transition to the new framework.
• Stay in touch with your NDIA planner or Local Area Coordinator and read any new communication from the NDIA about your plan.
• If you’re uncertain, ask questions, don’t wait until your review!

Will my plan still be individualised?

Yes. Section 33 changes the structure and transparency, but your plan will remain tailored to your unique support needs and goals.

Are there safeguards if I’m at risk of exploitation or have complex needs?

Yes. The NDIA will consider risk factors like past spending, the presence of a plan nominee/plan manager, and the risk of your funds running out early. If needed, funding periods can be set to shorter intervals with safeguards in place. You can always appeal decisions.