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: Thursday, 24 January 2013 2:14:39 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.

The disability system has not worked for me or members of my family for the following reasons.

• A general lack of information and co-ordination of the existing services available to people with disabilities especially in REGIONAL CENTRES.

• People with disabilities require equipment and services, access to reliable transport and regular home care at suitable times, to enable them to actively participate in the community.

• A need to provide suitable accommodation for younger people with disabilities when the only alternative is living in aged care accommodation or being cared for by their elderly parents.

• Too much red tape in accessing services and equipment.

• There is a need for easier access to eduction, employment and recreational activities.

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 opportunities to participate in the community

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

Equipment and home/vehicle modifications, Education support (technology/services/equipment), Recreation and community access

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

The National Disability Insurance Scheme is a long overdue scheme that, if implemented, would provide equal access and opportunities for people with disabilities to enable them to participate in the community and to live fulfilled lives.

If access to suitable education, equipment, transport, services and accommodation are available people with disabilities who have originally been on Social Welfare could have the opportunity to become employed members of the community with the chance to contribute to society and to be in control of their

Submission

It has always been our belief at [redacted] that people should live full lives allowing them to pursue their goals and dreams.

In an affluent country like Australia it is a national disgrace that these opportunities have not been readily achievable in the past.

Very importantly there needs to be cooperation between the Federal and State Governments to achieve a workable result.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards,

Mrs Sylvia Lowrey