Social and community participation funding cuts impact on social connection and wellbeing (Participant experience)

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National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment

Submission: Submission-146 I’m a disabled person and an NDIS participant from Melbourne in my late twenties; as part of your response regarding the NDIS Future Generations Bill [2026], please do not reduce funds allocated towards social participation. To provide context—due to health reasons preventing me from working despite wanting to—and lack thereof close relationships or partners—I rarely leave home alone. I don’t get opportunities typical individuals at this age enjoy due to limited access to community resources like art therapy support group which has been invaluable throughout my life experience. This group provided structure, companionship & purpose previously unattainable through other means such as scrolling on social media platforms or receiving paid assistance. Without continued funding for similar services, isolation would return with devastating consequences. It’s important we preserve spaces where people feel welcome rather than relying solely upon professional caregivers who cannot replicate these experiences nor afford them without financial aid. The current situation highlights how essential it remains for us all to recognize that disability does not equate merely physical limitations but encompasses mental well-being too - something often overlooked when considering policy changes impacting our communities.

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

Submission 146

These costs will mean some people can’t access doctors’ appointments if they don’t have enough support; won’t be able to leave their house: goodbye cafes! Getting groceries in person? Seeing friends at work? Trying clothes out somewhere? Travelling into city life? Football games? Concerts? Movies night? Haircuts? It means forced isolation without a chance of living fully. Imagine rationing funding just so you could go essential medical visits but no longer accessing things that make lives meaningful! This isn’t an exaggeration either - cutting this budget drastically impacts everyone differently due to varying barriers towards connection. Please consider how severe such cuts would truly affect us all first, as we’re more than numbers and lines.

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

Submission 146

TO BE PUBLISHED ANONIMOUSLLY. Please do not include any parts of my name if this is published\nonline.