National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 1395
Submission to the Senate Inquiry into the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
I am writing this submission regarding the proposed changes to the NDIS Act and the impact these changes may have on people living with disability, including people with low vision and blindness.
My sister lives with very low vision. Her disability is permanent and affects many aspects of daily life, independence, safety, mobility, participation in the community, and access to employment and social connection.
The NDIS provides important supports that help her participate in everyday life and maintain independence. These supports are not luxuries. They are essential for accessing the community safely, navigating unfamiliar environments, using technology, attending appointments, and participating as equally as possible in society.
I am deeply concerned about proposed changes that appear to make it harder for people to access or keep supports, particularly changes relating to the definition of “permanence” and expectations that people try all available treatments before qualifying for support.
For people with permanent vision impairment, there is often no cure. Many treatments may be unavailable, unaffordable, unsuitable, or offer limited improvement. Requiring people to continually prove permanence or pursue every possible treatment option places unnecessary stress and burden on disabled people and their families.
I am also concerned about the impact of reducing capacity building and community supports. These supports help people maintain independence, confidence, mental health, and participation in society. Removing or reducing them may increase isolation, reduce quality of life, and create greater long-term costs for both families and the broader community.
People with disability deserve stability, dignity, and support. Changes to the NDIS should strengthen these outcomes, not create fear and uncertainty.
I ask the Committee to carefully consider the real human impact these changes may have on people with permanent disabilities and their families.
Thank you for considering this submission.