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: Wednesday, 23 January 2013 9:02:45 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.

My grandson has Spinal Muscular Atrophy type3. He cannot walk more than 2 metres without falling. He needs a wheelchair that suits his needs (a Permobile) but we have to fundraise for more than half of the cost. Disability services gave $11000.00, we have to raise $17000.00. It is hard a enouh having a child with a disability without having the added burden of fund raising added to it. Also other types of disabilities get $12000.00. Because doesnt fit into your catergory, he does not get it, even though his needs are just as difficult. disasbility is with mobility, he has no problem cognitively. However his lack of mobility bears a huge burdon on the family, we all suffer from shoulder problems due to lifting him throughout the day. I have had to give up work to help cater to his needs. I feel there is an unfairness on how money is allocated.

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

• People with a disability can choose the types of support to use,
• More rights for people with a disability,
• Increased ability to coordinate services to suit the “whole” person/family

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

• Therapy and allied health services,
• Equipment and home/vehicle modifications,
• Support for families and carers

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

I support this scheme, because I am hoping it will give family/carers more control over the allocation of funding for their children. I would also like to see people with a disability being able to access equipment that they need, at the time they need it without having to fundraise so hard. I am also hoping it will have a more flexible approach, not one shoe fits all. I believe that the Qld premier should get on board with this and be quick about it. People with a disability have the right to be heard, and should also have the same opportunities as able bodied people in the areas of education, employment, terapies, access to support services and community areas. The NDIS is not perfect, but it is a first step on the way to giving people with disablities a higher standard of care and a hope for the future.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards, Mrs Elizabeth Canavan