National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 1365
28/May/2026 NDIS
I am the sole parent and full time carer, of a 46yo daughter who has Downs Syndrome. I recognise the importance of ensuring the long term sustainability of the NDIS and I support the need for reform. However I am deeply concerned that the current approach is disproportionately targeting participants and their families, rather than addressing the inefficiencies and exploitation within the scheme itself.
At present funding reductions and increased scrutiny appear to be falling most heavily on those the NDIS was designed to support, people with a disability, whilst widespread issues involving fraud, price inflation, and unethical behaviour remain insufficiently addressed.
I am very concerned and distressed by the suggestion that social and community participation and support should be reduced due to perceived misuse by support workers. If there are issues with worker conduct, then it is the responsibility of providers and regulators to address this directly. It is not appropriate to penalise participants by reducing access to supports that are critical for inclusion, independence, and wellbeing.
More broadly, I am concerned by commentary suggesting that pre NDIS community programs fostered genuine inclusion. Historically many such programs resulted in segregation rather than integration, limiting opportunities for people with a disability to participate fully in society. The NDIS was designed to change this, and it is critical that reforms do not unintentionally reverse that progress.
I am also aware of cases where participants are being drawn into lengthy and costly processes through the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART), requiring them to resubmit extensive medical evidence that has already been provided. This creates unnecessary financial and emotional strain, particularly for individuals with significant and permanent disabilities whose support needs are not in question. It raises serious concerns when administrative and legal processes appear to override the assessments of qualified medical and allied health professionals.
Additionally there is growing frustration within the community about decisions being made remotely, without adequate understanding of individual circumstances, and sometimes in contradiction to on the ground assessments conducted by NDIS staff and treating professionals.
There is a broader equity issue at play. Many Australians are Questioning how the Government can afford substantial tax concessions, whilst at the same time tightening supports for some of the most vulnerable members of our society.
A sustainable NDIS must be built on fairness, accountability and genuine partnership. I strongly the Government to prioritise. Targeting Fraud, overcharging and unethical provider practices. Improving the accuracy and consistency of initial planning decisions. Reducing administrative inefficiencies and duplications. Ensuring regulatory action is directed at those misusing the system, not the participants.
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 1365
Once these systemic issues are addressed, there will be a stronger foundation for collaborative discussions about long term sustainability.
I would welcome the opportunity to see a reform approach that works with participants and their primary carers, rather than placing additional burdens on them.