The 2026 SIL changes can seem like a lot at first, but for most participants and families, getting ready is much simpler than it sounds. A few quick checks are often all it takes to feel confident you’re ready. This checklist walks you through each step, so you know exactly what to look for and nothing gets overlooked.
The 60-second summary
From 1 July 2026, every SIL provider must be registered with the NDIS Commission. Providers who aren’t registered yet need to apply by 1 October 2026 to continue delivering SIL while their application is being assessed. Your funding, your NDIS plan and your eligibility don’t change because of these reforms. The main thing to check is that your provider is registered or applying. Once you’ve confirmed that, you can feel confident you’re ready for the changes.
Checklist for participants and families
Work through these five simple steps to make sure you’re ready for the 2026 changes. For most people, it only takes a few minutes.
Check your provider’s registration status
Ask your provider directly whether they’re registered with the NDIS Commission for SIL, or applying before 1 October 2026. They should be able to answer this clearly and confidently. You can also check their registration through the NDIS Commission if you’d like to confirm it for yourself.
Confirm your funding and plan are unaffected
This is one of the biggest concerns people have, so it’s worth checking off your list early. The reform changes who can deliver SIL, not your funding, your plan or your eligibility. You don’t need to reapply, be reassessed, or make any changes to your plan because of these reforms. If you’ve heard otherwise, it’s likely because these registration changes have been confused with broader discussions about NDIS funding. They’re separate changes, and this reform doesn’t reduce your SIL funding.
Plan for a transition, just in case
If you’re unsure whether your provider will be registering, it’s worth having a simple backup plan. Check your service agreement to understand your notice period and keep a registered provider in mind, just in case. You may never need it, but having a plan can give you peace of mind.
Keep it simple. Know your notice period, who you could contact if you needed to switch, and who could support you through the process. Having those answers ready means you’ll know exactly what to do if your circumstances change. Our guide to changing your SIL provider walks you through each step.
Sort out independent support workers
If any of your SIL support comes from an independent support worker, it’s worth checking how they’ll be delivering support after 1 July 2026. Under the new rules, they’ll need to work through a registered SIL provider rather than independently. Having this conversation early gives everyone time to plan. In many cases, independent support workers will join or work alongside a registered provider, so it may simply be a matter of confirming how they’ll continue supporting you.
Bookmark the NDIS Practice Standards page
If you’d like to keep a reliable source handy, bookmark the NDIS Commission’s Practice Standards page for the latest official information. You may also find it helpful to save this checklist and our guides on the SIL reforms and changing providers, so they’re there whenever you need them.
Key dates to remember
| Date | What happens |
| 1 July 2026 | SIL registration becomes mandatory. Registration group 0138 takes effect. |
| 1 October 2026 | Unregistered providers must have applied to register to keep delivering SIL. |
Who to contact if you’re unsure
If you have any questions as you work through this checklist, you don’t have to figure it out on your own. If you have a support coordinator, they’re a great place to start and can help explain the changes or confirm your provider’s registration status. If you don’t have a support coordinator, or you’d simply like another perspective, our team is always happy to help.
You can call What Ability on 1300 358 714 or get in touch with our SIL team here. We’re happy to talk through your situation with no pressure, even if you decide to stay exactly where you are. You can also read our full SIL changes explainer or learn about our SIL service.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the deadline for SIL providers?
Registration is mandatory from 1 July 2026. Providers who aren’t registered by then must apply by 1 October 2026 to keep delivering SIL while their application is assessed.
Do I need to change anything in my plan?
No. Your plan and funding stay the same. There’s nothing you need to reapply for or change because of the registration rules.
What if I do nothing?
If your provider is registered or applying, doing nothing is fine. The only risk is if your provider doesn’t apply by 1 October 2026, in which case you’d need to move to a registered provider.
- Tyrone Faulkner
