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 4:16:36 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.

Takes too long to get a response other than a ‘your application has been received’ letter once an application has been submitted. Criteria may be too stringent. I know of mum with Fibromyalgia to whom we provide daily assistance getting daughter off to school, as mum cannot get out of bed in mornings. Cannot get Disability funding for her - has been told ‘she can improve’

• but she has not done so as yet! Took 4 months to get physio and OT review of lady with MS.

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

-The ability to receive services when needed and in the way that suits the person, -Less red tape, with planning done locally by people who know their community, -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:

-Accommodation options, Flexible in-home/outside home respite, Crisis and emergency support

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

Because I hope it will provide options for and lifelong support for all people with a disability. Because I hope respite, in home and in community, for families will be more often available.