SocietyAlmost 145,000 Australians to lose autism support under NDIS reforms, documents show

Internal estimates indicate that about 144,600 Australians receiving autism support through the National Disability Insurance Scheme are expected to leave the program by 2030. The federal government is advancing reforms to narrow the focus of the A$52bn scheme. The stated direction is to prioritise people with significant and complex needs. Health department documents show that, from 2028, nearly two-thirds of the 241,000 participants expected to lose access will be aged 18 or under.

AustraliaautismNDIS reformdisability support

TThe Guardian★★★☆☆2026-07-15 15:00Original