Seven years of change in the disability sector

Throughout the last seven years, the disability service provider sector has undergone profound transformation. For organisations, participants, families and workers alike, this period has been marked by both significant progress and complex challenges, all shaped largely by the evolution of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), shifts in policy, and changing community expectations.

When the NDIS was introduced nationally in the mid-2010s, it fundamentally changed the landscape for people with disability. The shift from block-funded service delivery to an individualised, participant-centred funding model gave people unprecedented choice and control over the supports they receive. Providers were suddenly operating in a market-based environment, delivering tailored services directly linked to participants’ goals and budgets. This was a radical departure from more traditional service models. 

Choice and control for participants has been one of the stand-out improvements. Individuals now have the ability to choose providers that align with their unique needs, preferences and aspirations. Support services have diversified, including more focus on flexible plans, innovative service delivery models and person-centred care approaches. Providers have responded with digital tools, streamlined plan management systems, and a stronger emphasis on outcomes rather than outputs. 

Another positive trend is the increase in transparency and system improvements from the NDIS. The scheme has recently implemented clearer definitions of supports, more consistent plan structures and increased visibility of funding components. This has all been designed to help both participants and providers understand and navigate the system more effectively. 

However, the journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. Financial sustainability has emerged as a core challenge. Many not-for-profit and smaller providers have struggled with price caps that have failed to keep up with rising operational costs, wage pressures and compliance obligations. This has led to closures, consolidation of services and in some cases major providers ceasing disability service delivery altogether. These market pressures have raised concerns that choice and quality could diminish if smaller, community-based organisations exit the sector.

Linked to this is the workforce crisis. The disability sector continues to face difficulties recruiting and retaining skilled workers, particularly as demand grows and competition for staff intensifies. A decade of rapid expansion in provider numbers has meant more organisations vying for the same talent pool, while increased expectations for specialised skills, including cultural competency, trauma-informed care and mental health support, have transformed what is required of the disability workforce. 

Policy shifts and regulatory pressures have also added complexity. Recent reforms aimed at improving the sustainability and integrity of the NDIS, such as enhanced fraud prevention measures, more automated planning tools and changes to eligibility pathways are intended to strengthen the scheme for the long term. Yet these reforms also require providers to adapt quickly to new reporting, compliance and operational frameworks. 

Despite these challenges, the sector has shown resilience and innovation. Providers are embracing technology and digital platforms to improve access and engagement, enhancing service delivery, and streamlining operations. There’s also a rising focus on early intervention, community inclusion, and more holistic support models that integrate employment, housing and well-being outcomes. 

In short, the disability service sector today is more dynamic, participant-centred and outcomes-focused than ever before. The last seven years have seen tremendous progress in empowerment and diversification of supports, but also significant pressure points in sustainability and workforce capacity.

As the sector continues to evolve, collaboration between government, providers, participants and communities will be vital in ensuring that quality, choice and inclusion remain at the heart of disability services for years to come.