National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 1544
To the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee, I am writing this submission as the Director of Youth OT and a Senior Paediatric Occupational Therapist. Youth OT is a mobile paediatric occupational therapy provider registered with the NDIS supporting children young people families across Gold Coast Logan Northern NSW.
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 1544
I am also worried about limiting unscheduled reassessments to “exceptional circumstances†. In paediatric practice, children’s needs can change quickly. Families may experience a major change in behaviour, school placement, safety risk, family capacity, medical needs or developmental stage. When that happens, families need each other way to have supports reviewed. A system that makes reassessment too difficult will leave children and families stuck with plans that no longer match their neds. The proposed reductions to social civic community participation supports are also concerning Participation is not separate from developmentFor children young people being able join life activities routines age appropriate experiences functional skills built Removing reducing these risks increasing isolation long-term independence.I understand sustainability providers want scheme fair accountable sustainable But should not be achieved broad funding cuts do properly consider individual need Poorly targeted cuts may reduce plan budgets short term likely increase pressure family schools health services itself I ask Committee recommend changes ensure: capacity building supports reduced through percentage cuts; social Community participation supported where needed develop inclusion;functional assessments support needs completed by qualified professionals including occupational therapists fully automated eligibility decisions permitted any tools frameworks algorithms used decision-making proper human oversight children complex changing needs pushed out Scheme before suitable alternatives genuinely availablefamilies retain practical pathways for reassessment when needs change and funding remain based on individual need rather than categories wide reduction The NDIS works best recognises real-life function diagnosis forms budget categories For the children Families Occupational therapy capacity building allows them participate stay safe build future reliance crisis supports.
Submission 1544