National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026

Submission 1439

To the Committee

I’m writing about the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) bill 2026.

I support the idea of keeping the NDIS sustainable in the future, and I understand there is a need to deal with fraud and other misuse. However, I also want the system to work for people who need it.

I’m concerned some of the changes might make it harder for people with invisible disabilities to qualify for NDIS. I was diagnosed with brain cancer in October 2024. I am not currently an NDIS participant, however it is reassuring to know it is there in case I need it.

I’m involved in the ABI community in Perth. I attend a weekly session which focuses on returning to work and building up skills. I also attend online meetings with Kings Park Warriors, a support community for people with acquired brain injuries.

Across these groups I’ve noticed a consistent theme: only around one third of people attend with carers or formal supports, although I suspect many more would benefit from support. Many people with acquired brain injuries live with cognitive fatigue, memory problems, executive function issues and slowed processing speed that are difficult to see from the outside. Because of this, people often appear more capable than they really are and may not ask for support because they do not feel ‘disabled enough’.

This is where I think the Bill needs to be careful.

My concern is that changes to social and community participation funding may reduce access to the supports that help people attend these groups. In practice, this could mean fewer people participating in programs that play an important role in returning to work, mental health, confidence, and day-to-day functioning. While reducing these supports may save money within the NDIS in the short term, it may also lead to higher costs elsewhere in the healthcare system and reduced workforce participation.

From a systems point of view, I think it is important to look at the whole picture rather than focusing only on immediate NDIS savings. The right support can help people stay engaged in work, community life, and independence, which may reduce costs elsewhere in the long term.

I’m not against reform, I think it is needed. I just think that it is important to recognize people with invisible disabilities and acquired brain injuries are properly recognized and assessed, so people don’t fall through the cracks just because there disability is not visible.

Thank you for considering my submission.

Kind Regards

Western Australia