National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 1719
Kim Henderson
21/05/2026
Submission for the Future Generations Bill 2026
To the Committee
My name is Kim Henderson, I live in Aubin Grove, Western Australia, and I am writing about the NDIS Future Generations Bill. I am writing as a volunteer involved with a community group called Kings Park Warriors, attended by people living with acquired brain injury.
I am asking you to reconsider the 50% cut to social and community participation funding from October 2026.
The community organisation I volunteer with, Kings Park Warriors, in Western Australia, provides much more than a simple activity. For many participants, it is one of the few opportunities to leave the house, maintain friendships, participate in the community, and feel connected to others. These activities support mental wellbeing, confidence, independence, and inclusion. There are weekly peer groups around the state, and they have upwards of 1000 members who frequent these groups. Over half of the attendees could not participate without the support of a support worker.
My role with Kings Park Warriors is to facilitate a Young Adults group for people aged 18 to 35 living with an acquired brain injury. We meet fortnightly, and over the past three years I have had the privilege of witnessing the profound impact this group has had on each member’s quality of life, confidence, and personal recovery journey.
Thanks to social and community participation funding, these young people can attend a space that offers far more than activities — it offers connection, friendship, belonging, and opportunities to build vital social skills. What has been especially powerful is seeing the relationships extend beyond the group itself. Members now support and encourage one another in their personal goals, share the challenges of daily life, and celebrate each other’s progress. They have shared each other’s milestones, birthdays, successes as well as losses.
For many living with invisible disabilities that are so often misunderstood, this group has become a safe and empowering community — a place where they are seen, valued, understood, and reminded that they are not alone.
Community participation is not a luxury. It is an important part of living a meaningful and connected life. The ability to engage with others, build relationships, and participate in activities within the community helps prevent loneliness and isolation. I believe these proposed changes risk harming vulnerable members of our community by removing practical supports that allow them to stay socially connected and active.
Attached to this submission are signatures from members of Kings Park Warriors, their support workers and carers, and public supporters of our community group who share these concerns and support the continuation of funding for social and community access supports.
I respectfully ask the Senate to reconsider these proposed changes and ensure that people with disability continue to receive the support they need to participate fully in their communities.
Thank you for considering this submission.
Sincerely,
Kim Henderson