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, 25 January 2013 9:48:37 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.

I am writing on behalf of the Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania which strongly supports the development of the National Disability Insurance Scheme. In 2011 the Synod passed a formal motion in support of this scheme, being aware through its agencies and congregations that so many people with disabilities, familes and carers are seriously disadvantaged by inadequate coordination and resourcing of disability services.

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, Better access to education and work opportunities, More rights for people with a disability

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

• Education support (technology/services/equipment), Employment support, Accommodation options

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

The Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania strongly supports a system being developed which recognises that disability can place undue pressure on individuals, families and carers in attaining optimal life opportunities. At present the system does not accord people with disabilities the required educational, employment and community participation supports needed to lead dignified lives. People have come to expect little of the system and this needs to change. The NDIS offers a new vision for better days ahead, and the time is right for a well-resourced and coordinated system of support to be put in place. The Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania commends the NDIS to the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs. Rev Andy Calder Disability Inclusion

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards,

Rev Andy Calder