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The way NDIS plans are created is changing, and one of the most important updates is the introduction of the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment, a key part of NDIS planning reforms. This new assessment plays a central role in NDIS Planning and funding and guides how funding decisions are made under the NDIS New Framework Planning approach.
Rather than focusing on medical diagnoses or lengthy reports, the I-CAN assessment looks at how a person functions in everyday life and what support helps them live well.
This blog explains what the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment is, why it was introduced, what happens during the assessment, and what it means for NDIS participants.
Why the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment Was Introduced
For many participants, the existing NDIS planning process has felt confusing, inconsistent, and expensive. Funding outcomes often depended on the number and quality of reports provided rather than real-life functional support needs. This created stress for participants and families and led to unequal outcomes. The proposed I-CAN Support Needs Assessment was developed to address these issues by- Creating a consistent way to understand functional support needs
- Reducing reliance on costly external reports
- Shifting focus from diagnosis to daily function
- Making funding decisions fairer and more transparent
What Happens During an In-Person I-CAN Assessment?
The I-CAN assessment is conducted face-to-face and is designed to feel more like a structured conversation than a test. The assessor focuses on understanding how a person manages daily life and where support makes a difference. During the assessment, participants may be asked about- Daily routines at home and in the community
- Personal care and self management
- Communication and social interaction
- Mobility and physical movement
- Emotional wellbeing and decision making
- Participation in work, education, or community activities
Who Conducts the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment?
The assessment is carried out by trained professionals who are independent of service providers. These assessors follow a standardised framework to ensure consistency across participants. Their role is not to judge or deny support. Instead, they gather information about how a person functions across key areas of life and what level of assistance is required. This separation between assessment and service delivery helps reduce conflicts of interest and improves trust in the planning process.How the I-CAN Assessment Affects NDIS Funding
Results from the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment directly inform NDIS planning and funding decisions. Rather than relying on multiple reports from different professionals, planners use assessment outcomes to guide budget allocation. This approach- Links funding more closely to functional needs
- Reduces variation between similar cases
- Makes funding decisions clearer and easier to explain
- Supports a more predictable planning experience
Common Concerns From Participants
Many participants have understandable questions and concerns about the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment.Will my diagnosis still matter?
While diagnoses provide context, the assessment focuses more on how a condition affects daily life and what support helps you function.Do I still need external reports?
In many cases, the need for additional reports will be reduced. However, supporting information may still be useful in some situations.Will this reduce my funding?
The goal is fairness and consistency, not automatic reductions. Funding is based on support needs, not labels.How can I prepare?
Keeping notes about daily routines, challenges, and supports that work well can help you feel confident during the assessment.Why This Assessment Is a Major Shift for the NDIS
The I-CAN Support Needs Assessment represents a move toward a more person-centred NDIS system. By focusing on function rather than paperwork, the NDIS aims to better understand what people need to live independently, safely, and meaningfully. Under this approach, participants are encouraged to talk about real experiences rather than trying to fit their lives into technical language or reports. As part of the broader reforms introduced by the National Disability Insurance Scheme, this assessment is designed to improve trust, clarity, and long term sustainability.How Ambition Health Group Can Help
At Ambition Health Group, we support participants and families to understand changes like the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment and prepare with confidence. Our team can help you make sense of what assessors may ask, how to share your everyday experiences clearly, and how to navigate planning conversations. If you would like guidance or support as these changes roll out, at Ambition Health group our experienced team can help you understand what the I-CAN assessment may involve, prepare for planning conversations, and navigate changes with confidence and let us help you move forward with clarity and confidence.Frequently Asked Questions About the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment
Q. What does I-CAN stand for in the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment?
I-CAN refers to a strengths based approach that focuses on what a person can do with the right support. Rather than concentrating only on limitations, the assessment looks at how support enables everyday living, independence, and participation.Q. Is the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment mandatory?
Yes. Under the new NDIS framework planning, the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment will be a required part of planning for participants aged 16 and over as the reforms are rolled out.Q. Is the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment a medical test?
No. The I-CAN assessment is not a medical examination or diagnostic test. It is a structured conversation that explores daily life, routines, challenges, and the supports that help a person function well.Q. Will my existing NDIS plan change immediately?
No. Current NDIS plans remain in place during the phased rollout. Changes will occur gradually as participants transition to the new NDIS framework planning.Q. Can I have a family member or support person present during the assessment?
Yes. Participants can have a family member, carer, or trusted support person present during the assessment if it helps them communicate their needs and feel more comfortable.Q. Do I still need reports from therapists or specialists?
In many cases, the need for multiple external reports will be reduced. However, supporting information may still be helpful depending on individual circumstances. The focus will be on functional needs rather than report quantity.Q. How long does the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment take?
The length of the assessment can vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. It is designed to allow enough time to understand daily life without feeling rushed.Q. Will the I-CAN support needs assessment reduce my NDIS funding?
The goal of the I-CAN assessment is not to reduce funding but to make funding decisions fairer and more consistent. Budgets are based on support needs rather than diagnoses or paperwork.Q. How can I prepare for the I-CAN Support Needs Assessment?
It helps to keep notes about daily routines, challenges, supports that work well, and situations where additional help is needed. Real life examples are more valuable than technical language.Q. Where can I get help understanding the assessment process?
Trusted providers like Ambition Health Group can help participants and families understand the assessment process, prepare for planning conversations, and navigate upcoming NDIS changes with confidence.