National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 1444
To Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the current and proposed NDIS reforms and the devastating impact these changes are having on both disability service providers and the vulnerable participants and families we support every day.
As a provider working directly with children, families, and individuals with disabilities, I am already witnessing significant reductions in access to therapy supports, funding uncertainty, delayed approvals, and increased administrative barriers. These changes are not only threatening the sustainability of my business and the livelihoods of the professionals we employ, but they are also placing participants at serious risk of long-term harm.
The reduction or removal of therapy supports will have profound consequences on participants’ ability to engage in education, employment, social participation, emotional regulation, communication, and independent living. Early intervention and ongoing therapy are not optional luxuries — they are essential supports that directly influence long-term outcomes.
Without adequate therapeutic intervention, many participants are likely to experience:
- Increased mental health deterioration
- Social isolation and reduced community participation
- Escalating behavioural challenges
- Reduced school attendance and engagement
- Long-term unemployment and dependence on welfare systems
- Increased contact with the justice system and higher rates of crime associated with unsupported disability and mental health needs
These outcomes will ultimately create greater long-term costs for society and government than the provision of timely and appropriate supports.
Families are also reaching crisis point. Parents and carers are reporting extreme levels of burnout, exhaustion, financial strain, and emotional distress. Many are carrying the full responsibility of complex care needs without sufficient support. Disturbingly, there are increasing reports of carers expressing hopelessness, severe mental health decline, and suicidal thoughts due to the overwhelming pressure they are under.
The impact on providers is equally severe. Small businesses like mine are facing major revenue losses, workforce instability, and uncertainty about future viability. Experienced therapists and support professionals are leaving the sector due to burnout and funding insecurity, further reducing service availability for participants already waiting extended periods for support.
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 1444
The disability sector cannot sustain reforms that reduce access while simultaneously increasing complexity and demand. We urgently need policies that prioritise participant wellbeing, early intervention, prevention, and sustainable support systems rather than short-term cost cutting.
I strongly urge decision-makers to reconsider the direction of these reforms and meaningfully consult with providers, participants, therapists, and families who are directly affected. The voices of the disability community must be heard before irreversible harm occurs.
The long-term social and economic consequences of withdrawing essential supports will far outweigh any short-term financial savings.
Thank you for taking the time to consider these concerns.