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, 21 December 2012 4:47:30 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.

Ìts too easy to drop off the radar. Our needs are always changing as our son grows and we dont know what is available as we are simply parents, not doctors or therapists who understand all that there is to having a disability. We havent learn this stuff as it happens and as our sons needs change. We are ucky that we have managed to find some of the right people to help us but we are proactive and educated. Not everyone is like us and if we fall through the cracks how easy is it for someone who may not have the means or ability to fight for what they need?

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

• Ensure support and equipment is available when needed,
• Minimising the number of times people have to tell their story in order to get support,
• 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,
• Equipment and home/vehicle modifications,
• Case management, planning and coordination

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

Because I have a son with additional needs

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards, Mrs Mereana Gordon