National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 1502
My husband sustained an incomplete spinal cord injury due to medical negligence some years ago. Both of my parents had degenerative conditions. I also work as a special education teacher. Therefore, I write this submission from the perspective of a wife, daughter and teacher.
Please see my specific concerns with the Bill below.
PART 6 17B 4
Funding under the National Disability Insurance Scheme should be used efficiently and the distribution of scheme funding, across participants as a whole, should be equitable, having regard to similarities in needs and circumstances.
Each person experiences their diagnosis differently. For example, no two spinal cord injuries are the same even if they are at the same level and type (that is, complete or incomplete). This section of the Bill implies a “cookie-cutter” approach will be used to determine provided supports. This is highly inappropriate and potentially dangerous. A highly individualised approach should be used.
PART 6 73 1E
Evidence as to outcomes for the participant, arising from their use of the support in their previous plan, in improving, maintaining, or reducing a decline in, the participant’s functional capacity in relation to an activity covered by paragraph 24(1)(c) or subparagraph 25(1)(c)(i), or capacity for social and economic participation.
My husband’s abilities will decrease with age. As spinal cord injuries are incurable, there is only going to be a need for greater assistance in the future. Likewise, people with degenerative conditions will only need greater assistance as their conditions progress. This section seems to show a lack of understanding or care for these inevitable declines. NDIA staff must truly take notice of expert accounts, including those of participants, to inform decisions.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Bill presents as lacking empathy. Participants no longer appear to be viewed though a human rights lens, contradicting the NDIS’ supposed adherence to the UN’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This is alarming, disheartening and dangerous.
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 1502
Thank you for taking the time to read my submission.