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, 28 December 2012 3:41:51 PM

e 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 current disability system doesnt work. I have close friend of 30years, who has an adult son with very severe disabilities, both physical and intellectrual. At present she is unable to make a future plan for him..In which he would be treated respectfully, caringly,and have all his physical and emotional needs met..I am greatly concerned for her and her son, should a emergency arise..and long term care was required. It would be devastating to my friend and her son, to have him shipped from place to place, as that is all that is currently available for them. Of course that is if she is fortunate enough to get any assistance!!! As I watch my ageing friend, and her health decline, Like her I am fearful for the future of her son. I have seen her struggle financially to obtain both equipment and modifications for her home and car. As well as providing social outlets for her son, to address him emotional wellbeing.

Please do somthing now NOT LATER, because later will BE TOO LATE!!

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

• Ensure support and equipment is available when needed,
• People with a disability can choose the types of support to use,
• 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:

• Equipment and home/vehicle modifications,
• Case management, planning and coordination,
• Crisis and emergency support

I support the introduction of the NDIS.

I support this long overdue NDIS..I see it as the only means for my friend and her son, and others in her position to actually feel they will be able to make future plans for there loved ones.!! At present obtaining ample respite when needed, along with the necessary equipment and modifications to the car and house can cause alot of stress, and is often out of the reach of many.. so they have to make do.. The currant system is just not acceptable and it is apparent that it is not working.!!

In a country like Australia, who has a great health system, for those in need.. I see or envisage the NDIS will address the other vital needs, as mentioned above, for those and their families who are less able to provide them themselves.. Thus being able to have a sense of hope and peace of mind.

Kindest regards Heather Starling.

I agree for my submission to be made public

Regards,

Ms Heather Starling