Age coverage and access to services for individuals with disabilities

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 11:25:42 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.

The disability system only covers persons to 65 years inclusively. Therefore my age group is covered under the age care framework. Many valuable services are not covered under the age care scheme. This coverage is totally unacceptable and discriminative.

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

  • Ensure support and equipment is available when needed,
  • Better access to mainstream support and services,
  • More rights for people with a disability

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

  • Equipment and home/vehicle modifications,
  • Employment support,
  • Support for families and carers

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

This scheme has the potential to enable people with disabilities to access equipment and services that will improve their lives. Having access to employment support and respect within the community is vital to good health. Surely this is the right of every Australia to participate and enjoy a full and rewarding life.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards,

Margaret Crowe Margaret Crowe