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

From: To: Community Affairs, Committee (SEN); jreeves_57@hotmail.com Subject: Submission to the Inquiry into the National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill 2012 Date: Thursday, 24 January 2013 8:30:17 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.

My grand daughter , has cerebral palsy. This disability has placed huge stress on the family emotionally, socially and financially. As we live in the southern highlands it was difficult to access the intervention and therapy services. Over the last 12 months the cost of therapy has risen considerably. My daughter has had to give up her career to look after her daughter, taking her to therapy, driving for hours to specialists, driving her to school , escorting her to the class room, collecting her from the class room, going on excursions and the list goes on…….. While all this is happening older sister is missing out on her childhood.

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

• People with a disability can plan their lives and pursue their goals and dreams,
• The ability to receive services when needed and in the way that suits the person,
• People with disability/family will influence the types of support and services offered

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

• Therapy and allied health services, Education support (technology/services/equipment), Support for families and carers

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

This is what life is about, it is about being part of a community helping each other a fair go for everyone “ There but for the grace of God go I“

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards, mrs joanne reeves