Submission Regarding Proposed NDIS Legislative Changes 2026

I write this submission as a friend of a family deeply impacted by long-term disability caring responsibilities. Through my close relationship with redacted and her son redacted, who lives with Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 3 and requires significant daily support, I have witnessed firsthand the enormous emotional, physical and mental demands long-term caring places on families.I have grave concerns regarding the potential impact the proposed NDIS reforms may have on both and his mother .From my perspective, these reforms appear likely to increase stress, uncertainty and pressure on families who are already doing everything they can to maintain stability,safety and quality of life.I have personally seen the exhaustion and burnout experienced by Jenny after many years of continuously caring for her son while also trying to navigate systems, maintain work responsibilities and manage everyday life.I am deeply concerned that reducing supports or increasing reassessment pressures for people with permanent disabilities will place even greater strain on carers and familieswho are already at their limit.Community participation supports are often misunderstood by people outside thedisability community.These supports are not simply social outings or recreational activities.They provide important opportunities for:• routine and stability• emotional regulation• communication development• confidence building• community access and safety• social inclusion• maintaining life skills and independenceWithout appropriate support,I fear there is a real risk of increased isolation, regression, emotional distress and declining wellbeingforboth participants carers.

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

Submission 1600

I also believe reform efforts should focus more strongly on provider oversight, fraud definitions and accountability rather than increasing pressure on genuine participantsand families living with permanent disability. Families like this are not seeking unnecessary supports or luxuries.They are seekingtheability to continue caring safely,maintain dignity,and ensuretheir lovedonescancontinueparticipatingmeaningfullywithinthecommunity.Iurge theCommitteeto carefullyconsider thebroaderhumanimpacttheseproposedreformsmayhaveonparticipants,carersandanfamiliesacrossAustralia.Thankyoufortheadportunitytoprovidethissubmission.