Support Needs Assessments: NDIS Changes Unpacked

The NDIS is undergoing its biggest planning reform since the scheme began, with Support Needs Assessments set to transform how NDIS plan budgets are created but what will this really mean for people with disability and their families? In this episode of Reasonable & Necessary, Dr George Taleporos sits down with Aaron Verlin, Acting Deputy CEO of the NDIA, and Professor Jason Thompson from the University of Melbourne to unpack the new planning approach. They break down how the Support Needs Assessment works, how the I-CAN tool is being adapted, who will conduct assessments, and what the rollout will look like. We also tackle the questions everyone’s asking: Will this lead to budget cuts? How long will assessments take? Will allied health reports still matter? What about people with complex needs? And what if the assessment gets it wrong? If you want a clear, practical explanation of what’s changing and why it matters, this episode is essential listening. Note: The podcast was recorded on 21 November 2025. It may not reflect all recent discussion on the topic.