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: Sunday, 20 January 2013 7:54:01 PM

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.

I have concerns that the NDIS will not cover the disabled after they turn 65, instead, absorbing them into the aged care system. During my mothers illness she was treated generically and no special considerations were given to her rare neuro muscular condition. I was horrified on one particular occasion, when she was being assessed for a nursing home, the accessing doctor bullied her to stand on her own, despite being told that mum had Charcot Marie Tooth Disease and the grimly evident muscle wastage in her legs and arms. I and 3 of my siblings have the same inherited condition and I hold grave fears that, when the time comes for assessment of specialized services, we shall not have continued and familiar access to more appropriate services. I truly believe that long-term disability, e.g, genetic and other childhood conditions, require greater understanding and expertise than is currently available within the aged care system. On the other hand those working solely with disa bility have the background and experience with respect to specialised therapy, aids and equipment. It should be remembered that despite disability, many are not ready, nor indeed suited to aged care at 65 and therefore should be given the option of remaining within the framework familiar to them and indeed, with those knowledgeable of their case, having, in many cases worked with them over many years and better placed to access their needs.

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,
• People with a disability can plan their lives and pursue their goals and dreams,
• Less red tape, with planning done locally by people who know their community

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

• Therapy and allied health services,
• Equipment and home/vehicle modifications,
• Recreation and community access

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

It is my belief that the NDIS will deliver service in a more timely manner, will give greater control to the disabled client, where appropriate and will be better placed to facilitate integration into the broader community. I further anticipate that liaison with carers and allied services will be more flexible, ensuring good outcomes with the broader scope for consultation.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards,

Ms Colleen McGrath