The full answer

Foundational supports were a core recommendation of the 2023 NDIS Review and accepted by government in 2024. They are publicly-funded supports outside the NDIS for people with lower-intensity disability — covering autism diagnosis and early support, mental health services, basic equipment and community capacity-building. Funding flows started in 2026 and ramps through 2028. The reform aims to prevent over-reliance on the NDIS by providing earlier intervention. Providers serving low-intensity participants should plan for some current participants exiting NDIS into the foundational supports system.