National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 1422
To the Senate Community Affairs Committee,
I am writing to express my serious concerns regarding the proposed National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 and the broader changes currently being discussed around the NDIS. One of the best things about Australia is that we have built a society where people living with disability are increasingly visible, included, and participating in the community. Community and social participation supports are not optional extras. They are often the very thing that helps participants build confidence, reduce social anxiety, develop independence, and become active and functional members of society. as somebody with a close family member living with disability, and as someboby who is neurodivergent myself I understand firsthand that progress happens through micro-steps For many participants simply attending a community activity building routines learning socia skills or becoming comfortable leaving house can take months years gradual support consistency There growing concern within disabily commuity proposals significantly reduce funding for comunity participatino and soial suppor Slashing these suports may appear cost short term but believe it ignores long-term impact on participant families mental health systems carers economy whole The NDIS should not be viewed simpley as cost Multiple economic discussions highlighted dollar invested into NDIS estimated return approximately $25 Australian econmy increased participation reduced pressure other government employment improved outcomes Just because something expensive does mean saving country money overall am also deeply concerned level power proposed under sections A C From understanding provisions could allow future ministers governments make sweeping changes to supports funding categories eligibility rules without adequate safeguards transparency meaningful rights appeal That creates significant fear uncertainty for people living disabilities their familes No matter political party governemt there never unchecked power over essential supports vulnerable Australians rely live safely participate in society Many Aussrians support reform the NDIS stronger action against fraud misuse However reforms target directly rather than creating broad powers reducing essential supports legitimate participants genuinely rely them
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 1422
I respectfully ask the Committee to carefully consider the long-term consequences these changes may have on:
- Community participation and inclusion
- Social anxiety and mental health
- Participant independence and confidence
- Family and carer wellbeing
- Rights to transparency, accountability, and appeal
- Long-term economic and social outcomes for Australia The NDIS was created to help Australians living with disability live fuller, safer, more-connected lives. Community access and social participation are a major part of that outcome, and I believe those supports should be protected, not reduced. Thank you for taking the time to consider my submission.