Section 33 Changes: What Sydney NDI Participants Should Discuss with Their Support Coordinator
Section 33 Changes: What Sydney NDI Participants Should Discuss with Their Support Coordinator
- December 4, 2025
A friendly guide for 2025
If you’ve been hearing bits and pieces about the “Section 33 changes” to the NDIS and you’re thinking, What on earth does that mean for me? — you’re definitely not alone.
A lot of people across Sydney are feeling the same way right now. The rules have shifted, the language has changed, and suddenly everyone’s talking about funding periods and new plan structures.
So today, let’s sit down together and walk through it all calmly — no jargon, no stress — just clear, honest info to help you feel confident and in control of your NDIS journey.
First things first… what is Section 33?
Think of Section 33 as the part of the NDIS Act that tells the NDIA how to build your plan.
It’s the rulebook that covers things like:
- how your funding is arranged,
- what supports get included, and
- how changes can be made when your life shifts (which it does — life never stands still!)
The recent updates simply change the way this is done, with the aim of making things clearer, more flexible, and hopefully a bit easier to navigate.
What’s actually changed under Section 33?
Here’s the simplest way to think about it:
Your plan is now laid out more clearly.
You’ll see:
- a total funding amount,
- funding split into components (like Core, Capacity Building and Capital), and
- how much is in each part
Your funding is released in stages, not all at once.
These are called funding periods — often quarterly.
It just means your budget is unlocked bit by bit across the plan, rather than being available from day one.
It’s now easier to update your plan when life changes.
If something shifts — your routine, your health, your job, your goals — you may not need a full plan review.
A plan variation can often do the job much quicker.
These updates aim to make things more transparent and responsive, so you’re not stuck waiting months when something important changes.
Who does this apply to?
This part confuses a lot of people, but the answer is pretty straightforward:
- If you get a new NDIS plan on or after 19 May 2025, you’ll be on the new Section 33 structure.
- If your current plan is reviewed after that date, you’ll move across as well.
- If your plan hasn’t hit review yet, you’ll stay under the older setup for now.
It’s not about disability, criteria, or “eligibility” in the usual sense — it’s purely about when your plan is created or updated.
What this means for you in real life
Let’s make it practical.
You’ll need to keep an eye on when your funding becomes available.
Because funding is spread across periods, timing matters — especially if you need something big early in your plan, like:
- therapy assessments
- home modifications
- equipment
- a therapy block
If that’s you, don’t stress — just talk to your Support Coordinator early so they can help organise it.
Your Support Coordinator becomes even more important.
Their job is to help you:
- understand your new plan layout
- request changes when you need them
- gather evidence for variations
- make sure your funding periods match your support needs
Their support can take a lot of pressure off, especially during this transition phase.
Providers need to align with your funding periods.
This can affect scheduling or invoicing, so it’s good to keep communication open.
What you should ask your Support Coordinator
Here are some gentle but powerful questions to help you feel informed and in control:
1. Will my plan move to the new Section 33 structure?
They can check your plan dates and give you a clear answer.
2. What funding periods apply to my plan?
Understanding when funds are released helps you plan ahead.
3. If something changes in my life, can I request a variation instead of a full review?
This can save you a lot of time.
4. What evidence do I need if I want to request a variation?
Your coordinator can guide you on what’s needed (no guesswork).
5. How long will a variation take?
Ask for realistic timeframes and updates along the way.
6. What happens if a variation is refused?
You still have rights. You can request an internal review.
7. How can I get ready for my next plan review under the new rules?
A bit of preparation can make things smoother and help you get the right supports.
8. How do I keep track of my spending with these new funding periods?
Your coordinator can help you set up simple, easy ways to monitor things.
A few things to watch out for
You’re not doing anything wrong — these are just things to be mindful of:
- If you need big or urgent supports early in the plan, make sure enough funds are released in the first funding period.
- Providers might need time to adjust to the new structure.
- Unused funds can roll into later periods, but they won’t carry into a brand-new plan.
As long as you keep the lines of communication open, it’s manageable.
Getting ready for your next plan
Here are some simple steps that can make a big difference:
- Check when your current plan ends.
- Think about any big supports you’ll need early.
- Write down your goals and what supports help you reach them.
- Keep reports or letters from therapists handy.
- Ask your coordinator how your funding periods are set up and why.
A little planning now helps you avoid bumps later.
So… are you “eligible” under the new Section 33?
If your plan is new or being reviewed after 19 May 2025, then yes — you’ll be under the new structure.
If not, you’ll move across once your next review happens.
That’s it. No complicated rules.
Final thoughts
The NDIS can feel overwhelming at times — especially when changes are involved.
But remember this: you don’t have to figure it out alone.
These Section 33 updates are designed to make budgeting clearer and updates easier, and with the right guidance, they can actually work in your favour.
Take your time. Ask questions. Check in with your Support Coordinator.
You have every right to understand your plan and feel confident using it.
And most importantly — your NDIS plan should fit your life, not the other way around.
If you ever feel unsure, reach out. Support is there to help you navigate all of this, one step at a time.