NDIA Accountability Project

Opposing removal of Equine Assisted Therapy from the NDIS

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National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024

Submission 48

Sent via email to: community.affairs.sen@aph.gov.au Submission on the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024 Name: Janie Thomas Date: 12.07.2024

Introduction

I, Janie Thomas, a retired Australian lawyer with expertise in legal training and recruitment, am writing to oppose the proposed removal of animal-related therapy services from the NDIS Bill. As a soon-to-be registered member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) with Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) accreditation, I am launching a business specializing in EAT. Evidence of Benefits for EAT The Australian Counselling Association recognizes EAT as a valid therapeutic approach, citing its potential benefits across various mental health conditions. Numerous studies highlight the effectiveness of EAT:

  • Health Psychology Open (2019): Effective for PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
  • Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (2015): Improvements in social functioning for children with autism.
  • American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (2017): Improved balance and mobility in multiple sclerosis patients.
  • Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies (2014): Cognitive function improvements in elderly dementia patients.
  • Military Medical Research (2018): Significant reduction in PTSD symptoms among veterans. Specific Benefits for NDIS Participants EAT offers a range of benefits for various conditions:
  • Physical Disabilities: Improved mobility, balance, fine motor skills, strength, cardiovascular health, pain management, and postural control.
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders: Enhanced social skills, emotional regulation, sensory integration, routine establishment, and self-confidence.
  • Mental Health Issues: Better emotional regulation, mindfulness, self-awareness, trust-building, stress reduction, and social skills development.
  • Cognitive Impairments: Improved memory, attention, problem-solving skills, decision-making, language skills, and executive functioning. General Benefits of EAT Research has shown that EAT can lead to:
  • Improved quality of life (Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 2016)
  • Reduced stress levels (Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary & Alternative Medicine, 2018)
  • Enhanced communication skills (Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities, 2020)
  • Physical benefits for those with disabilities (Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2019)
  • Long-term psychological benefits (Journal of Clinical Psychology in Medical Settings, 2021)

National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Getting the NDIS Back on Track No. 1) Bill 2024

Submission 48

Potential Implications if EAT was Removed from the NDIS Scheme

Removing EAT from the NDIS would have far-reaching consequences:

  • Many specialized therapists would face serious professional and financial challenges.
  • NDIS participants would lose access to this unique therapy, potentially leading to regression in their progress and increased stress.
  • The diversity of therapeutic options under NDIS would be reduced, limiting participant choice.
  • The entire EAT industry, including support services, could face significant economic setbacks.
  • Rural and semi-rural areas might see a reduction in specialized services.
  • Ongoing research into EAT’s efficacy could be hampered.
  • The welfare of therapy-trained horses could be affected.

Conclusion

Equine Assisted Therapy offers a holistic and engaging therapeutic approach that can significantly benefit NDIS participants across physical, psychological, and social domains. I urge the Committee to consider these substantial benefits in their deliberations and to take all submissions seriously in preparing its report. I hope the Committee will take all submissions seriously in preparing its report. Kind regards

Janie Thomas LLB(Hons)(Lond)