NDIA Accountability Project

Adult daughter awaiting supported accommodation

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: Thursday, 27 December 2012 4:11:39 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.

My severely disabled adult daughter is on the Victorian Department of Human Services Disability Support Register awaiting supported accommodation as I am finding it increasingly difficult to care for her now I am 50+. When I inquired about the likelihood of her receiving a place in the near future I was told she was not on the priority list so a position was very unlikely in the foreseeable future. I have since chatted to another mother who is 65 and whose severely disabled daughter is 36 and has been on the list since she was 16 and the high priority list for 5 years. The current service to people born with disabilities is a disgrace. When it all gets too much for me I am going to relinquish my daughter. I only hope that I can pick the moment before I collapse and the state does not end up with two new clients.

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

  • Ensure support and equipment is available when needed,
  • The ability to receive services when needed and in the way that suits the person,
  • 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:

  • Education support (technology/services/equipment),
  • Support for families and carers,
  • Accommodation options

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

It is pot luck which us are born with or acquire a disability or if this occurs to a loved one. In our civilised developed society we should all bear the burden through our taxes and adequately support people with disabilties and their families. You could be next!

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards, Mrs Linden Johnston