What is the NDIS Impairment Notice — And What Does It Mean for Your Child?

If your child is on the NDIS, you may have heard about the new Impairment Notice. This change is part of the NDIS updates coming into effect from 1 January 2025. It’s essential to understand how it could impact your child’s supports—now or in the future.

This blog is here to break it down simply for parents and carers of young children.

What is the Impairment Notice?

The Impairment Notice is a formal document that outlines the type of impairments your child is living with. These may include autism, developmental delay, or physical disability. The notice helps the NDIS understand what types of supports your child needs.

It will be:

• Given to new participants when their access to the NDIS is approved.

• Gradually introduced to existing participants as they transition to the new framework.

  
  

For younger children, especially those under seven, it’s not always clear if a condition will be lifelong. This notice allows the NDIS to recognise likely permanent conditions earlier. It helps your child access the right supports sooner—and with more consistency.

What Impairments Are Included?

The NDIS groups impairments into six categories:

1. Intellectual – Difficulties with learning, reasoning, or understanding.

2. Cognitive – Challenges with memory, attention, or problem-solving.

3. Neurological – Conditions affecting the brain or nerves (like epilepsy).

4. Sensory – Hearing or vision impairments.

5. Physical – Mobility or coordination issues.

6. Psychosocial – Impacts from mental health conditions.

   
   

For children under six with a diagnosis of developmental delay, the notice will reflect that as a broad category without needing to break it down further.

Why Does This Matter for Your Family?

This change is designed to reduce the stress and uncertainty that often come with NDIS reviews. It can:

• Make planning clearer — Supports will be linked directly to your child’s diagnosed needs.

• Prevent repetitive paperwork — No need to keep “proving” the same conditions over and over.

• Provide long-term stability — This is especially helpful during early years when your child’s development is still evolving.

  
  

Understanding the NDIS Impairment Notice is crucial. It helps you navigate the system effectively, ensuring your child receives the necessary support.

Will This Affect My Child’s Current Plan?

Not right away. Initially, the change will not impact your child’s existing plan. However, over time, when your child’s plan is reviewed or renewed, the Impairment Notice may be introduced. This will guide decisions about supports and funding.

If your child already has reports from therapists, paediatricians, or other specialists, these can help determine what’s included in their Impairment Notice.

What If Something’s Missing?

It's essential that the notice accurately reflects your child’s needs. If you feel it doesn’t, you can:

• Ask for a variation — Provide updated reports to support your request.

• Request a review of decisions — This is similar to any other NDIS decision.

  
  

This ensures that your child gets the right recognition and support for their impairments.

What Should Parents Do Now?

Here are a few simple steps for parents to take:

• Keep attending regular appointments with your child’s therapy team. Consistency is key.

• Ensure reports are current — These documents help to document ongoing support needs.

• Reach out if unsure — Your support coordinator, LAC, or therapist can help explain what this means for your family.

• Stay informed — Changes like these are designed to support you, not complicate things. Understanding them helps you advocate confidently.

  
  

Understanding the Transition

The transition to the new framework may seem overwhelming. You may have questions about how this affects your child's care plan. Information should flow clearly from the NDIS to you regarding these changes.

Communication is Key

Maintaining open lines of communication with your providers is essential. They can offer clarification on the Impairment Notice and how it applies to your child’s circumstances. By staying engaged, you will better support your child.

Feeling a Bit Overwhelmed?

That’s completely normal. The NDIS can feel complex, especially when you’re juggling therapy, school, appointments, and everyday life.

Remember, you’re not alone. There are people who can help you make sense of it all. If you ever need support understanding reports, preparing for reviews, or knowing what’s next, don’t hesitate to reach out to your providers or support networks.

This information is accurate as of April 2025. For the latest updates, visit the official NDIS website at www.ndis.gov.au.

With the Impairment Notice, you have the tools you need to better advocate for your child. Understanding this process is a crucial step toward ensuring their needs are met effectively.