Submission to the Inquiry into the National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill 2012

From: To: Community Affairs, Committee (SEN); Subject: Submission to the Inquiry into the National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill 2012 Date: Friday, 18 January 2013 12:36:44 AM

Please consider this email a formal submission by me to the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs Inquiry into the National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill 2012.

The current disability system has many problems that need to be addressed.

There should be a “no blame” interpretation of disability. 2 members of my family are disabled through road trauma. One received little support, except by virtue of the free limbs scheme because the acccident wasn’t able to be blamed on anyone else. The other received a one-off payment through the MVIT, which turned out to be inadequate given his on-going medical problems. He is struggling to get the medical care he requires.

The main features of the NDIS that will make a difference to the community are:

• Better access to education and work opportunities,
• More employment of people with disability and less reliance on social welfare,
• People with a disability can plan their lives and pursue their goals and dreams

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

• Therapy and allied health services,
• Education support (technology/services/equipment),
• Employment support

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

There is inadequate support for many who are disabled. There are people in genuine need, who with a small investment, will be able to return the investment manyfold when they re-enter the workforce.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards,

Mr Andrew Eldridge