Inquiry into Implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme and the Provision of Disability Services in New South Wales
Name: Name suppressed Date Received: 20 July 2018
Partially Confidential
My daughter was placed in care in 1982 at redacted , redacted then into
community home under the Richmond Report . Policies have changed considerably since 1982 . It
is a huge task to legislate for Disabilities as the range of disabilities is so vast from mobility issues
to grave illnesses requiring high levels of supervision and medical treatments . I feel that the
overall focus of the NDIS can allow for this diversity of assistance required however in the case of
NSW , the relinquishing of an active role in Disability Services by the State Government has
caused a great deal of anxiety by Parents and clients . Government Services have been taken over
by Private Organisations such as “The Benevolent Society” ,“ Life Without Barriers“ and “Housing
Choices” . The main concern is obtaining sufficient funding to cover all the requirements required
by our Children as time progresses. As they age their requirements change and at times change
quickly. Issues such as support at Hospitals , if they need Hospital Services are still being
negotiated . Staffing stability has always been an issue and with the change from Community
Services to redacted , has seen staff movements which has interrupted stability and
cause behaviour issues to surface again . The NDIA is attempting to administer a new system in
NSW which has been compounded by the State Government opting out of Service provision . Even
though most services are “not for Profit” they still have to cover costs and this is a real concern as
costs are always the issue with NDIS funding . Parents now are in a situation that closer
examination of services , costs and timing are more crucial and again adds to anxiety for them and
the people in care. The fact that the majority of staff , the houses , and to a degree the ancillary
services of OT, Physio etc are being provided by previous Departmental Staff , we fear that the
system becomes more costly rather than cost efficient . It is still relatively early days however
concerns raised previously when the Privatisation consultations commenced still have not been
finalised . If the system becomes too costly there is a real fear that services will be withdrawn or
reduced considerably . It is the not knowing of what is actually happening that adds to our anxiety
.