NDIA Accountability Project

Need for support services and independent living

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: Monday, 24 December 2012 8:40:17 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.

The system is fragmented and I am sure money is lost in the transfer and double handling between Federal and Satate Governments. It means vital services as simple as a shower or the ability to have some assistance to keep up with domestic chores aren’t available. It also means that families and in particular kids cant get access to early intervention services - these are the real investment in the future costs of care.

And families need a break and cant always call on extended family or friends to do this - they need to know the person tehy care for each day is happy and comfortable and even having a good time!

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

  • Ensure support and equipment is available when needed,
  • More employment of people with disability and less reliance on social welfare,
  • People with a disability can plan their lives and pursue their goals and dreams

The most important services for the NDIS to provide are:

  • Therapy and allied health services,
  • Life-skills, Positive behaviour support and psychological services

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

I support an NDIS because it has the potential to really change the circumstances of people with disability and give them a real channce to be more fully included in our community, that includes education and recreation, jobs and assistance that enables someone to live as independently as possible and be able to make therir contribution to our community.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards, mr Terence Reed