NDIA Accountability Project

Son with Autism faces challenges accessing disability support

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

From: To: Community Affairs, Committee (SEN); Subject: Spam: Submission to the Inquiry into the National Disability Insurance Scheme Bill 2012 Date: Saturday, 22 December 2012 8:07:46 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 son has Autism, I have applied to Disabilty Services twice for support of various kinds, on one occasion I didnt hear back from them for over a year (until I contacted them). On the second occasion I recieved a letter after 6months saying I was unsuccessful, with no reason given.

We do not have family near us, no friends able / or willing to support so we are still waiting to access paid respite, still waiting after 24 months on a waiting list. Now my contract/ casual nursing position gone from Sunshine Coast “no money” is again an issue“ and i will not be able to afford paid respite which i understand will be $30 per hour/ min time 3 hours. We dont have a spare $90.

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 education and work opportunities,
  • Older parents and families will not worry what happens when they can no longer provide support

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

  • Therapy and allied health services,
  • Support for families and carers,
  • Flexible in-home/outside home respire

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

Because an investment now with a 12 year old will mean he is more functional and possibly more employable which saves money on services as an adult. Also a cost saving on pension payments which government cant afford and will be an issue when Im too old to provide for him. Oh, and the small issue of a meaningful occupation for when he becomes an adult.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards, mrs Helen Mihailof