Changes to assessments and allocations, and flexible funding

The changes, which  apply to people who have had their assessment done by a Needs Assessment Coordination Service (NASC), have been informed by feedback from the disability community.

The main changes are:

• People will get more choice and control in their use of flexible funding.
• The purchasing guidelines will be removed.
• People who get flexible funding will be provided with a budget for them to manage within.
• People will get guidance to help manage their budget. This will make flexible funding easier to use.
• All NASCs around the country will do their assessments the same way. This is so their decisions on support are fairer and more consistent.
• Families and carers will be included in assessments.

These changes will support government to make the best use of the resources it provides.

Minister’s announcement

• Minister’s media release external
• Minister's video external

Information on these changes

• Changes to disability support services
• Summary of community consultation findings
• Fact sheet on the changes
• Slide deck video with NZSL external