Changes to flexible funding – what you need to know

From 1 April 2026, people using flexible funding through the disability support system will have more say over how that funding is used. The purchasing rules that have been in place since 2024 will be removed, and funding allocations will remain at their current levels. For many people we work with, this is a meaningful and welcome change.

At Your Way | Kia Roha, we know how much the restrictions of the past two years have affected people’s lives. The ability to direct your own support – to choose what works for you, your whānau, and your situation – is central to what flexible funding is meant to be. We’re genuinely glad to see that principle being restored.

What’s changing

The key changes from April are:

• The current purchasing rules will be removed – people will have more flexibility in how they use their allocated funding.
• Funding allocations will stay at current levels.
• Hosts will provide more tailored support, guidance and coaching to help people plan and manage their budgets.
• A small number of purchases, such as international travel, high-cost items, or certain equipment will still require pre-approval.
• People don’t need to do anything to get ready for these changes.
• There is more information on the DSS website: Flexible funding changes | Disability Support Services

Spending must still align with a person’s support plan, stay within the allocated budget, and exclude prohibited items. These are reasonable boundaries, and ones most people already work within.

Our response

We welcome this shift. It reflects what many in the disability community have been calling for, and it responds directly to feedback gathered last year and to the recommendations of the 2024 Independent Review. We also recognise that the last two years have been hard. The restrictions introduced in 2024 were difficult for many people, and the uncertainty that came with them was real. We hope this change brings some of that certainty back.

At the same time, we want to be honest: the detail matters. We encourage you to watch the Disability Support Services website, to stay up-to-date with the latest information.

What this means for people we work with

If you’re currently using flexible funding, your allocation is not changing. What is changing is the range of choices available to you about how you use it.

If you are receiving individualised funding your host will be in contact with you.  If you receive carer support the process remains the same, however you now have flexibility on how you use those funds.

If your disability needs have changed, then please contact your community facilitator.