Submission to the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment

(Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Attention: Committee Secretary, Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs Submitted by email: https://communityaffairs.sen@aph.gov.au/ Dear Senators We welcome the opportunity to make a submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Community Affairs about the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment ( Securingthe NDIsforFutureGenerations)BilI\t2026. We are Queensland-based non-profit organization with motto changinglives through sport fo rQueensland athleteswithdisabilities.We were operatingbeforeNDisattemptingto fill DisabilitygapstoparticipatinginSportandwehave seenasignificantchange intheneedssince thenDsisintroducedbutthis BIl havegrave concernsaboutcapacityofthesocietysector topick up gaps which wouldbeleftfopplowith disabilitiestopartici pateinsportatall levels from socialthroughelite and that thiswouldhugelyimpact performance Homegames 1932 While weare not exclusively focusedoncreating Australianrepresentatives, wencannotfindthestars of Sport when everyone doesn’t hav an oppor tunitytot least try Sports findtheirwayinto pathw ay s.## NDIS “reform” cuts future medal tallies for Brisbane Games, putsathletes’ lives at risk. Future of Parasport undermined , athlet es’ l i vesatrisk andre sk o faustralia n otperform ingwellourHome GamesBr isbanebecause bill .Executive Summary Sporting Dreams opposes the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securingthe NDIsforFutureGenerations)Billcompletelyandsk asksthe Senatenotallowthisthis legislation to pass.Iflegislationmustbepassed,w e urge th Sen ate reject Bill or substantially amend it before passage.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Introduction

Sporting Dreams has witnessed first-hand how much difference the scheme made before Australians could participate fully. Prior to this program, persons needed wealth families, large support network access charity talent determination effort were not enough. The organization supported disabled persons’ sports activities both before throughout their lives of the National Disability Insurancescheme(NDIS). Our experience spans grassroots athlete development inclusion practical realities faced when attempting accessing sporting opportunities. We welcome opportunity provide submission Senate inquiry into: national disability insurance scheme amendment securing ndis future generations bill 2026.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

equipment management, orientation, behavioural support or specialist coaching arrangements. These supports are often the difference between participation and exclusion. The NDIS has enabled many participants to access these supports for the first time. As a result, sporting dreams have witnessed substantial increases in participation rates athlete retention volunteer engagement progression into leadership employment roles.Any reform that reduces access to these supports must therefore be assessed not only terms immediate budget impacts but also its broader social health-economic consequences.Concerns Regarding the BillSporting Dreams is concerned several provisions within create uncertainty regarding future eligibility funding participant rights.The proposed expansion ministerial powers define key aspects through legislative instruments reduce parliamentary scrutiny creates uncertainty planning futures.Reduction review reassessment protections may leave limited avenues challenge decisions significantly affect lives.Move toward narrower impairment-based assessments risks overlooking interaction disability environment support needs Participation outcomes rarely determined alone influenced person’s circumstances available supports opportunities community.Similarly proposals restrict social community participation risk disproportionately affecting people whose goals involve sport recreation volunteering community engagement.These activities objectives of scheme purpose supporting social economic participation.Participant ExperiencesThe experiences sporting dreams demonstrate practical consequence reducing availability Many athletes rely on support workers attend training sessions competitions communities Without these becomes impossible regardless talent motivation Participants with complex disabilities require specialised assistance cannot provided family members volunteers Restrict flexibility arrangements

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Recommendations

Sporting Dreams recommends that the Senate:

• Reject the Bill all together on the grounds that it achieves the exact opposite of securing the future of the NdIs for future generations, necessitating drastic amendments drafted in consultation with the Disability sector and Disabled People if it must pass.
• Seek alternative cost saving modelling including non-legislative ones options and run comparisons prior to changing legislation.
• Ensure that any significant changes to eligibility or support categories remain subject to full parliamentary scrutiny through primary legislation.
• Preserve participant rights to review and appeal decisions affecting eligibility, funding and support access.
• Maintain access to social and community participation supports until equivalent and fully funded alternatives are operational.
• Protect flexible support arrangements that enable participation in sport, recreation and community life.
• Retain assessment approaches that consider the whole person and their functional support needs rather than relying solely on impairment categories.
• Prioritise fraud reduction, administrative efficiency and system reform before reducing participant supports. Co-design future reforms with people with disability, families, representative organisations and service providers. Many athletes could not participate in sport because there was nobody available to help them get to training, transport equipment, provide personal care, or navigate inaccessible environments. Children and adults were forced to use poorly fitting second-hand equipment increasing pain fatigue injury risk Families carried overwhelming burden of support often sacrificing employment education own wellbeing Participation sports frequently depended fundraising sponsorship luck need without strong family support excluded entirely many experienced isolation poorer health outcomes limited opportunities develop confidence skills relationships provided by NDIS changed this.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

For the first time, many Australians with disability gained access to support workers, allied health professionals, assistive technology and individualised supports that allowed them to participate in community life, education, employment and sport. The proposed Bill risks reversing those gains. Through a combination of ministerial powers, reduced review rights, cuts to community participation supports, restrictive assessment processes and future reductions to funding categories, this legislation threatens to move disability support away from individualised participation and back towards a system where opportunity depends on family resources, charity and circumstance. This is not solely an issue related specifically to disabilities; it encompasses:

• Participation issues,
• Employment concerns; It also addresses broader societal challenges including: Healthcare considerations as well as sporting opportunities at both national levels (e.g., Olympic/Paralympic Games). The Australian government’s significant investment into preparing infrastructure and facilities ahead of hosting these major events highlights how critical such investments are not just financially but strategically too—ensuring athletes have adequate training environments conducive toward achieving their goals. However, if enacted without careful consideration regarding its impact upon existing programs designed explicitly around supporting disabled individuals’ needs during competition phases (training sessions, competitions), then Paralympians risk losing out entirely due lack thereof essential services provided by NDIS-funded organizations which often serve integral roles alongside coaches, families etc., forming part teams necessary for success within sports arena.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

It is about belonging.

It is about whether a young Australian with disability gets to experience the same opportunities as other children.

“Brian is 12 years old and wants to do swimming. He attends swimming lessons at the school swimming pool as part of his swimming curriculum but to really take this further Brian knows he needs to join the local swimming club. His parents are supported in the community to learn that this involves joining the local swimming club and getting classified for his Disability so with this information they start looking for access accessible sporting clubs. At this point Brian’s parents contact Sporting Dreams and let us know.” We’re able to provide information on pathways to classification. Connections were Swimming Australia pathways programs. We also sat down with Brian and his parents to figure out what kind of needs and support he would have and using knowledge of sporting clubs in the area, select which swimming pool and local club Brian would join. Brian’s swimming club become his swimming Family. A Sporting Dreams mentor works with Brian, his parents and the swimming club to identify barriers to participating. Even with the club educated and on board there will be additional support though it’s not appropriate to ask volunteers in the club to perform such as assisting Ryan with getting in and out of his swimwear, trialling putting on Brian’s AFOs (ankle foot orthosis). Brian is very concerned about having continence accidents around other kids while part of swimming so not only having access and an introduction to a continence Nurse will be important but also someone in place designated to clean wheelchair as well when this occurs.

Brian and his parents interview independent support workers with an interest in swimming, and choose Casey. Casey competed in swimming all the way through university understand how the swimming world works This means Casey can focus purely on Brian’sneeds;not needtofigureoutanentirenew sportandsystematthesametimewhichwould’vebeenthe caseifBriancarentersimplyengagedthenearestDisabilityprovidertosendwhoeverwas rosteredonthatdaytobelp Brian.Brian attends training three timesa week andaclub nights.He competesinlocal competitions,makesit tothestatechampionshipsandthismeanshisfirsttripaway.UntilNdisbillnumberone,Brian wasableattendeompetitions awayfromhomewithCaseytravellingwitheother swimmersandrystayinginthsameaccommodation.Thiswasthroughshortterm accommodationincapacitybuildinglineitem.Ifthether swimmerswerestayingatathleteshouses, Briancaseyneedstostayinahotel toreensure itswaswheelchairaccessiblehoweverbecauseeventhoughBr iancanwalkalittleandan teammateshavegottenusedtotheusingawheel chairdoesn’t meanyoucan’twalkatall Brandoesneedasafe accessiblebathroom. Brian has been devastated since these changes to legislation because now when ther other children in his swimming club go awaya tocompetitionsBrian cant attend all of them becausetheven though oneofhisparentsworkshard,theotheronhasstay home look after multiplechildren with adis abilityandtherelativelyenoughfundscoverthe expensesofsupportWorker travel,havelmotellaccommodations andout-of-pocketexpensesint addition do whatever it cost for Brian. All parents already know how expensive it

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

is for their child to participate in sport but now imagine you’ve got to pay for two people so one of them can do sport and that’s the reality.

Sporting Dreams has been stepping in to try and pay some of these gap payments for Brian up to our maximum amount per person per year ($500). Brian is already missing out on local competitions to save his money for a big one such as the state championships. This puts a lot of pressure on Brian compared to the other children in the club because it means if he doesn’t do his qualifying times at a local event, he won’t be going to the state or national championships. Brian’s friendships and relationship with the other children have already changed with this cost cutting measure because he’s no longer part of some of the stuff that makes up the cultural folklore and fibre of the club because Brian wasn’t there for that time when the entire bucket of M&M spilled through the car on the way to the pool at a competition. And he wasn’t there that time everybody threw the coach in the water at the end of the big competition and then realised the coach’s phone didn’t work and nobody had quite forgiven since. Brian now faces is the very real reality that he might only be able to attend swimming training once a month if he is lucky with a 50% reduction in his social and community participation budget. This is because Brian also received support to participate in other activities where it’s not age-appropriate to bring your parents such as a teenage birthday gathering of Lasertag and movie night.

Brian’s parents are not able to take him to swimming training every night. They have another child with her Disability; one parent has a Disability while the other works overtime financially supporting their family. The Disability-related life administration takes up much additional time from both parents filling out forms and attending appointments like all kids, so Brian can’t carpool due to assistance needed safely getting into/out of the swimming pool maintaining skin integrity putting equipment remembering packing everything taught by continence Nurse Support Worker purchasing these items along with Brian’s parents ensuring self-contained needs do Sport. If this bill passes Brian’s Support Worker Casey will only be able to support the family making sure everything ordered for disability related sport packed before leaving rostered on:

•  Brian training twice monthly or less falls behind becoming injured trying frequent building up leading expense funding Hospital system treat injury;

•    If Brian drops out friends beyond school group children community shadow swimming entire network invested future already seen parents jobs local pool interest sponsorship donations pay when unable participant.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Brian will no longer be fully living like a child in Australia who didn’t have a disability because of the cuts in this bill.

•   this bill comes Brian out of being a swimmer alone developing years of talent needed to represent Australia at Brisbane Home games.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Sara has enjoyed this so much she has gone through the process of being classified as para athlete and is investigating options available into elite sport.

Sara doesn’t just need help from pilot though; At home Sara’s quite independent because everything there laid down neatly thanks tipping kettle screen reading technology set up kitchen arranged occupational therapist together organize it all out. Going cafes restaurants travelling Cycling events means leaving safe familiar environment needing someone else eyes safety so she needs guide on off bike Support Worker lifesaver life changer example teamwork in Sport performance team work.

Because support worker not comes large company Sara her parents decided policies procedures protocols Safety works what doesn’t previously used capacity Building short-term accommodation pay Support Worker/pilot travel community Cycling events provide assistance also Accommodation food.

With those changes already made to Ndis Sarah participated local Cycling club events since came effect change.

Having Travel Food accommodations two people especially reasonable require own room privacy downtime away working means Sarah would have to pay two people travel compete one event now setting backwards learning independently navigate parent Parents do Cycling events missing stories adventures Club.

A further cut social Community participation funding mean won’t even be able weekly cycle event plus go train for that weekly Cycle Club Event weekend will prioritize Social Community Participation Funding essential survival activities including Professional appointments, Work appointments medical appointments where navigation unfamiliar locations inside clipboard paperwork completed Assistance finding front doors falls safely Some of these things time you can become more capable doing by yourself vision impairment using cane or a Guide Dog new situation and

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

you’re still adapting to living with the Disability having a Human to help is incredibly important. In addition to Cycling, Sara is studying at University, working part-time and like most young people wants to move out of home so she’s not relying on her parents and is either living by herself or in a shared house with some friends with a Ndls support working to help achieve these goals.”

GEORGE

George’s story demonstrates the value of investing in capacity rather than crisis. Following serious complications associated with spinal cord injury, NDIS-fund physiotherapy and exercise supports helped George regain strength independence community participation Those supports reduce future reliance on support workers hospital admissions health services Cutting such supports may produce short-term budget savings but create significantly higher long term costs elsewhere Georger’s injury was sustained motor vehicle accident years ago highlights danger proposal remove people injured car where they will be covered system national injury insurance scheme Queensland TAC Victoria George attempt set himself up his future spent payout deposit build wheelchair accessible home which he has lived since his accident training opportunities secure disability friendly employment He required pay back every single cent Centrelink systems believing him without substantial finances making eligibility for pension meaning that without NDLS George unable pay someone get bed as this trailing bathing dressing essential activities daily life But George risk exactly happening if bill passes clause We therefore recommend process passing this bill slowed down Grandfather People situation similar George been injured motor vehicle accident have no other access funding schemes their needs Look all those who might fall through cracks systems There might scenario many about leave Ndis Dohnt yet exist “Georgs sustaind spinal cord injury 1970s before establishment NDS creation modern lifetime care schemes National Injury Insurance Scheme Queensland state-based accident compensation systems Following years legal proceedings Georg received compens settlement However much of that settlement used repay government agencies services funded his care support lengthy court including Medicare, Centrelink and state-funded disability support systems The remaining funds were responsibly secured his future. Georges built a wheel chair-accessible home continues to live today invested education trainings enabled pursue disability-friendly employment.

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Like many Australians injured decades ago, George no longer has detailed records showing how compensation funds were allocated between future care costs, loss of earnings, pain and suffering and other heads of damage. Courts were not required to retain such records indefinitely and many documents no longer exist. For many years George lived independently but the long-term impacts of spinal cord injury gradually took their toll.He developed significant overuse injuries from decades of wheelchair useand experienced recurrent pressure injuries that resulted in lengthy hospital stays anda prolonged periods confined to bed.His physical condition deterioratedtothe point wherehe believedhis active life wasover. Before entering thenDISGeorge had largely acceptedthat hedwouldno longerparticipatein sport or structured exercise.Hehadtransitionedtopoweredwheelchairadopteddifferent methodsof managing personalcareadjustedtoa futurethat seemed increasingly limitedby his disability. Through NDIS-funded assistive technology,Gorgeceivedhispirst properlyfitted powered wheel chair.The wheelchair’spressure-relieving features allowedhimtoremain outbedfor extendedperiods withoutplacing hisskin at risk.NIDS funded physiotherapy helped him rebuild strengthaddress yearsof deconditioninganda managechronic overus e inj uries. Forthefirst timeina more than a decadeGor ge w as able topartici p ate inp hysical activity again.U sing adapted exercisetquipmentresistance traininga ndawheelchair-accessible hand cycle, hegradually regainedstrengthconfidenceandindependence.Theresultsextendedwell beyondphysical health.Gorges mentalhealthimproved,hiscommunity participationincreased andheregainedasenseo fpurposeenjoymenttha t ha d been missing for many years.Importantlythesupportsreducedhi s reliance onmore costlyinterventions.Investment inphysiot erapyexerciseand appropriateassistivetechnologyhelpeda void further deterioration reduced pressureon thehealthisystem anda n enhanced George’s independence.Georg es experience demonstrates whytheN DISmust continue to support capacity-building andre participati o r ratherthan focusing solely onc risis responses.H is story also highlightsaseriousrisk created by then proposedlegislation. George may be considered aperson who once received compensation yet hedoes not coveredby any ongoing accidentcompensation scheme.The fundshedecades ago have long sincebeen spentone legitimate disability-related needs housingandeducation.WithoutthenDISGe orgehas no alternative systemto fund thosuppor tw orkersh ere liesfor essential daily activities such getting out of bed showering dressing a nd managing his personal care.” The Bill contains several provisionsof particular concern:

• Schedule 1 Parts8anda l loweligibility rules taob e altered through ministerial instrumentsrather than primary legislation. -Schedule Part4permits broad funding reductions acrosssupport categories without participant review rights.

• Schedule 1 Parts 1,2 ,45and8reduce reviewandreassessments rights for existing participants.
• Schedule Part3 replaces whole-of-person assessmentwith a single eligible impairment approach.
• SchedulePartintroduces requirementsto exhaust treatment options before eligibility.
• Proposed funding reductionstosocial community participation supportsrisk underminingparticipation insporteducationemploymentcommunitylifebefore Foundational Supports have been established.SportingDreams doesnot acceptthe argumentthat sustainabilty canonlybe achievedbyreducing participantsupports.Thereare substantialopportunities toreducexpenditurewithout harmingparticipantsincluding: • Eliminating fraudinappropriate claiming. • Reducing duplicationadministrative inefficiency withinNDIA. • Removingunnecessary reassessmentsonlyforpeople permanent stable disabilities. Strengthening mainstream service systems so costs are not transferred to NDIS Investing assistive technology capacity building reduce long-term supportcosts Improving workforce capabilityservice quality Measuring participant outcomes rather than simply reducing expenditure.In elite sport championships won through targeted investment smart decision-making focusing resources where they deliver greatest return.The same principle applies NDIS This Bill risks Australia’s future Paralympic medal tally but its consequences extend far beyondsport The greater risk Australians with disability lose opportunities participate education employment family life communities Sporting Dreams therefore recommends that theBill proceed in current form and anyfuture reform agenda be co-designed peopledisability informed Disability Royal Commission aligned NationalDisability Strategy focused achieving sustainability without causing harm Goldmedal-winning cost savings strategies don’t hurt participants Delivering Better Outcomes Sustainable Savings IN DISD

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission In elite sport, gold medals and world records are rarely achieved through blunt cost-cutting. Success comes from identifying the factors that have the greatest impact on performance eand investing in them while eliminating waste, inefficiency, duplicateion. The same principle applies to the NDIS. If we want a scheme that is financially sustainablewhile continuingtoimprovethe lives ofAustralianswithdisability,weshouldfocusonthead“one percenters” –thet small but significant improvementsthat collectively deliver better outcomes anda long-term savings.Somethesese1%isinSportandinlifedontactuallyhaveto costmoremoney.Theyrelyoblu sky Thinkinganda collaborative teamworkwhich could be done between people wit disabilitieswho utilisetheservicesmanyofwhoareathletesand thegovernment.The objectiveshouldnotbeto spendlessatanycost.Theobjective shouldbetospend smarter,investearlier,andachievebetteroutcomes.

Eliminate Fraud,Wastea nd ExploitationNo group has astronger interest inp rotecting thee integrity o fNDIS than peop le with disability themselves.Ourlives,oportunitiesandi ndependencedependonthescheme operatingeffectively.Like asportingtteamprotectings its salary cap,every dollar lostt fraudisa dollar unavailable for genuine participants.it’s an unacceptable lossfor taxpayers.Savingscanbeancheivedthrough:

• Better auditing systems.- Improved data analytics t identify abnormal claiming patterns. - Stronger provider accountability . Faster investigation and enforcement processes.Systems tha l lowparticipants to iden ty a n stop invoicesf or services orequipment that have not been delivered.However,antifraudmeasuresmustremainpracticalan dp roportionate.Compliance systemsshouldtargetfraud,nott createbarriersforegitimateparticpants.Excessive bureaucracy can unintentionally pushpeople towards more expensive anda less flexible providersratherthanallowingthemtopurchase the most suitableanda cost-effective supportsavailable.

Runthe NDIAasa HighPerform ing Service OrganisationElite sporting organisations constantly analyseprocessesto removeunnecessary stepsand improveperformance.The N D I A shouldoperatewiththesamemindset.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Current systems often involve multiple layers of decision-making, duplication of effort, and unnecessarily administrative handling. Examples include:

• Participants receiving calls from blocked numbers that cannot be returned directly.
• Reliance on call centres to relay messages that could be resolved through direct communication.
• Matters moving between Local Area Coordinators, planners and delegates before a decision is reached. These inefficiencies create frustration for participants while consuming significant public resources. Performance measures should focus on both financial efficiency and participant outcomes, classifying customer service as cost effectiveness not competing objectives—they mutually reinforce eachother.

Simplify Administration and Reduce Red Tape

Many participants with permanent stable disabilities repeatedly provide same evidence year after year. This creates costs for:•Participants.•Allied Health Professionals.•NDIA staff.•External review bodies.Reducing unnecessary reassessments standardising evidence requirements would free resources directed towards supports rather than administration.In sporting terms this equivalent reducing time spent paperwork allowing athletes coaches performance.

Strengthen Mainstream ServicesThe NDIS was never intended become default provider every other system fails deliver.When health housing education mental justice withdraws supports,cost simply transferred into the NDISA sustainable approach requires:Cleer boundaries betweensystems.

• Stronger joint funding arrangements.
• Greater accountability from states and territories.
• Reinvestment in mainstream disability services. The NDIS should be part of a coordinated team, not expected to play every position on the field.

5. Invest in Workforce Capability A skilled workforce delivers better outcomes and reduces long-term costs. Poorly trained staff can contribute to: • Behavioural escalation. • Restrictive practices. • Injuries. • Failed placements. • Increased participant dependency. Investment in training, supervision and specialist expertise creates a stronger workforce and reduces costly crises. Just as elite athletes require skilled coaches, participants achieve better outcomes when supported by capable and experienced professionals.
6. Build Independence Rather Than Dependence The most effective long-term savings occur when participants become more independent. This may involve investment in: • Assistive technology. • Employment pathways. • Communication supports. • Transport independence. • Capacity-building programs. • Accessible housing. • Home and vehicle modifications. Too often decisions focus on the immediate cost of an item rather than its long-term benefit. For example, the cost of providing a participant with appropriate equipment may be significantly less than funding support workers to perform the same task every day for years.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

The difference between a high-performing sporting program and an average one is often investment in the tools and resources that allow athletes to maximise their own capability. The same principle applies to disability support.

Invest Early to Prevent More Expensive Problems Later

Every successful sporting organisation understands that prevention is cheaper than recovery. Early intervention can prevent:

• Hospital admissions.
• Mental health crises.
• Family breakdown.
• Homelessness. Institutionalisation. Involvement with the justice system. Relatively small investments in therapy, equipment, home modifications and family supports can avoid much larger costs in the future. The best savings are often achieved by preventing problems from reaching crisis point.

Focus on Outcomes Rather Than Inputs One of the greatest opportunities for reform is shifting attention from what is being purchased

to what is being achieved.In sport, success is measured by performance outcomes not simply how many hours athlete spends training.Similarly,the NDIs should focus functional outcomes Independence Community participation Employment Quality life Increasing prescriptive purchasing rules sometimes produce opposite intended effect higher costs poorer outcomes There examples where participants prevented simple solution because it approved list resulting need ongoing paid supports ultimately cost significantly more.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

A participant using appropriate equipment independently often achieves a better outcome than a participant requiring supervision indefinitely.

Reduce Disputes Through Better Decision-Making

A substantial amount of public money is spent on reviews, appeals and legal processes. Many disputes arise because decisions are:

• Inconsistent.
• Poorly explained.
• Delayed.
• Difficult to understand. Clearer legislation, greater transparency and earlier dispute resolution would reduce administrative costs while improving trust in the system. The best sporting teams spend their time competing, not arguing with referees. The same principle applies to scheme administration.

Partner With People With Disability to Design Solutions

People with disability are not obstacles to sustainability—they are essential partners in achieving it. Participants understand which supports work, which services deliver value, and where waste occurs. When large organisations claim certain funding arrangements are unsustainable, it is important to recognise that participants increasingly have choice and control over where they spend their funding. If people are choosing alternative providers, that may indicate differences in quality, flexibility or outcomes rather than simply pricing pressures.The voices of people with disability must remain central to any reform agenda. Conclusion: The Gold Medal Strategy The most sustainable savings will not come from reducing participant budgets or restricting access to supports.Like a high-performance sporting program, success comes from focusing on the fundamentals that drive results:- Eliminating fraud and waste.- Streamlining administration.- Strengthening mainstream services.- Investing early to prevent crises.

• National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
• Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission • Building participant independence. • Measuring outcomes rather than transactions. • Partnering with people with disability to design solutions. Gold medals are not won by cutting corners. The same is true for the NDIS.Disabled people and Disabled People’s Organisations across Australia stand ready to workwith government to identify practical reforms that improve sustainability reduce waste deliver betteroutcomes without causing harm.That is how we create a scheme that is both financially sustainableand worthy of the people it exists to support.Sporting Dreams – BackgroundFounded in 2008 Sporting Dreams has provided support ranging from annual grants group on one mentoring regular award ceremonies networking opportunitiesfor disabled athletes their coaches families friends creating peer support network Whilewe drive empower participate Sport valuable contributionSport brings life being part sporting community increase confidence physicalwell-being other people Disability help Pride do Life Disability incredible connectionsathletes broader sport non-disabled athletes travelling around world playing local competitions After long period time also seen go competitive level Sport pursuing personal career goals such asuniversity study graduating university pursue career becoming parents workingOur athletes have arranged range years40sPrior Ndiss still pathways information get involved Sport helping figure out what might suitable connecting athletes But terms finances hands-on support largely requests equipment started neverwould financial resources ensure had Support Worker So sadly already predictable if didn’t built-in supportnetwork would dedicated taking training helping themequipment couldn’t within club then person probably continue even bought pieceof equipment mean diddidn’t try just shows different system place before somethingsuch removing social participation funding currently enables athletes use customisedequipment they got through Ndis Paralympics Australia Grant system charitable donationsBoard made entirely disabled family carers disabilities led founder president Marayke Jonkers competed at

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

three Paralympic Games in swimming winning three medals and was Australia’s first female para tri athlete to medal at world championships when she won bronze in Budapest 2010. We’re focused on grass or sport, highlighting stories including everything: helping a small child ride around town; modifying bikes so children can join sports pathways representing Australia over 15 times internationally breaking records as role models inspiring next generations through Dreams athletes’ journeys Rachael Dodds presented Jordan Carroll blind visually impaired skier aspiring cyclist. These moments show that huge support networks were necessary enabling both athletes into Sport while celebrating everyone’s story but charities lack financial resources filling gaps our athletes families both Ndis participants giving us perspective difference between Ndis making lives better either because person is aged >65 not eligible Australian resident other athletes having family members carers also Ndis. This bill will cause significant harm if passed impacting ability people with disabilities participate live be active society requires further scrutiny amendment before proceeding:

• Risk capacity participation any level leaving house performing basic daily living activities such doctor appointments education employment younger athletes assistance friends birthday parties; Risk missing generations of athletes represent Australia due drastic reduction social community funding preventing regular training watching Paralympics TV it takes hard work every day week years unlike able-bodied athletes need additional transport assistive technology everyday wheelchair racing hand cycle tandem bike Triathlon no clubs accessible physically amenities athlete rely boarding club personal care tasks toileting Bill instantly slashes social and community participation funding allowing people to train at Sport taking away Support Worker working coach sporting club inclusion NDIS participant worker providing transportation bulky equipment assisting toiletteering personal care prompting building individuals’ capacities time management piece needed where when; Increase risk burnout parents/carers informal supports lucky enough have them widespread cuts category this responsibility

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

falls back to informal support. Now for the family unit to survive things such as medical appointments check priority again over Sport like it was before the NdIs and we are many people who are enthusiastic talented and desired to fit into Sport.

Consultation period

This consultation period has been so short despite attempting to book an Auslan interpreterbefore we even read the legislationwas impossible,totoeven hardestand excess online formto explainthe bills contenttoto athleteswho would be affectedandytheir families.This fact itself displays alack of understandingof basicDisability awarenessandaaccess needswhich initself shows howthelamaging natureofofthis bill comes about whylegislationis createdfor disabledpeoplewithout thembeing involvedin the conversation.

Parliamentary Scrutiny anda TransparencyTheconsultationperiodforthAmendmentBillistwo weeks, which is insufficienttol allowfor appropriate consultationconsidering accessibilitya ndcommunicationneeds.TheAustralian Government Guide a Policy Impact Analysis says consulta tion should occur fora minimum o f30 days where possible.T heshort timeline impacts us inp articularan dyouare senatorsbecause this submission ist being preparedbydisabled personwhouses voice dictat ion.Because oft h rash thereison not timetoscheduleadditionalsupporttod ealwith formatting errors whi ch thiscangenerate.Ofthe boardwehavepeop lewho havejust had surgery peopl ewho ar unwellp eooplew ho havecaring responsibilitiesanedisabledd loved onesincris sis and wescr amblingtop ut together asubmissionont ime.Consultati on required for thee xtentodrastic changeslike thi s withathleteshasnot beenpossible. Thetimeframe doesnotin permitus tohire an Ozland interpreterthe informationabout abillinto easy reading English run multiple workshopsandthedifferent formatsfore people’sdifferent access needsfrom inpersonor online overthetelephoneando assist peopleswit ha making that own informed decisions about how they mightbe impacted.This means wecannot bring you thebest qualityof data becausethere hasno tbeen abilityto work completely wit athletes.Onlythose whohavethed capacity anda n timeto respond.

Issues: atwo day extensionwhich allowedfor aextraweekendf orpeoplewho arebusy withworkwas helpfulbut no l enougha ndtechnical issueswi ththeweb sitemeantonthat actualweeken dthen buttontot actually uploadas ub mission was nota rkingforallot of type fo fpeopleformost o ft he weekend.T his wa sparticularly challengingfo rp eoplewhohad hiredasa uthorsup port persontos assitin preparingands u bmittingthes thoughts,an then duringthest rechedule timew iththeir Support Workercould notgett hesub mitbutton tow ork.

RecommendationsDo not pass this bill- there isaroad mark formaking am ore inclusiveAustralia.It looks likeananational Disability strategyThe Royal commission implements all our recommendations. When theseareachievedpublic transport barriers,sporting clubbarriersattitude barri ersphysical environment barrierswill have been addressedand theris abetterchancetha nthew canhave people withDisability access to communityforexamplewit less support required.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Issues impacting disabled people’s participation in sport & community involvement

Issues affecting disabled persons’ ability to participate fully within sports communities stem primarily due to legislative constraints stemming across various factors including:

• Implementation challenges related operational guidelines policies.
• Procedures and staff training underpinning the NDIS framework; as numerous changes occurring over recent years leave families advocating alongside supportive networks feeling overwhelmed; this reality underscores efforts made but often lagging behind progress achieved thus far.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Recommendation:

Require that all decisions affecting NDIS eligibility and funding levels be made through primary legislation subject to full parliamentary scrutiny, with mandatory advance notice to affected participants before any changes take effect. Existing participants face narrower criteria and fewer rights to challenge decisions

The issue:The Bill changes the rules for existing NDIS participants and makes it harder to challenge some decisions about supports and funding. It also restricts when you can request a reassessment, removes review rights for automatic plan renewals, and makes funding reductions unreviewable (Schedule 1 Parts 1 and 8). Combined with restrictions on reassessment requests (Part 2), automatic plan renewals without review rights (Part 5), and unreviewable funding reductions (Part 4), existing participants face narrower criteria with significantly fewer avenues to challenge decisions about their supports. We have no idea whether any of these new provisions will factor in people’s desire and benefit from participating in Sport and to what extent.

How this affects participants:This does not protect participants already on the NDIS who could be reassessed under stricter rules.If someone’s funding is reduced or their plan renewed automatically they may have limited or no ability to challenge that decision.This could make it harder for people to get extra support when their circumstances or disability change. For an hour flight with vision impairment now means navigating layers potentially excess information if they haven’t been funded accessibility technology Support Worker hours even try figure out entitled utilise.Now top participation cycling φ person return old system borrow tandem bike somewhere Australia which take years social media connect If there way appeal decision doesn’t at active cyclist stop cycling lose condition pilot The person sits bike them That most priceless things you can find as disabled cyclist Under current legislation a person pay another cyclist become Support Worker would cycle skills front fast trained assist other personal care needs guide athlete cats made across border decisions don’t account whole life work done build up relationships.Sport connections go away particularly compounded mandatory registration of support workers comes registered provider What chances happens elite level cyclist faster participant local club Exactly same scenario park run quite fast runner longer pay Train somebody skill running becomes support worker instant acquire pieces paper age care but fit world cycling running makes feel more place.

Recommendation:

Require “no harm” safeguard ensuring no current participant loses access supports unless equivalent supports in place, independent review rights before any exit decision and access unscheduled reassessments preserved.Unreviewable ministerial power cut funding all categories

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

The Minister can reduce funding for any support or group of supports by a specified percentage through an instrument that cannot be challenged (Schedule 1 Part 4). This applies across all budget categories. Unspent funds will no longer carry over at plan renewal (Schedule 1 Part 5).

How this affects participants: A participant’s community participation, capacity building or assistive technology funding could be cut without warning and without any right to appeal. Participants who save unspent funds across plan periods for high-cost items will lose that ability entirely. People who lived before the Ndls or her face going back to an not terrified about re-entering Home and Community Care in Queensland have seen it there since its introduction as part of AgeCare services they were familiarised under and know how it has impacted their attempts to fit into lives including work study sport family life etc Realistically participating those kind systems way currently exist remaining form within Queensland you would drop out paid employment/study anything requires regular commitments make full-time commitment around your supports That fitting waiting day someone turn up I might help Wedding months piece equipment approved As opposed choose Support Worker skills time needed so get Work Study with social & community participation budget Recommendation Require that unspent funds carry over on plan renewal Participants saving cost items require independent review rights before any reduction takes effect Requirement exhaust treatment options eligibility The issue person disability need exhaust treatments eligible Scheme Schedule 3 There also removal whole-of-person assessment replaced single impairment consideration Note previously acknowledged environmental factors other ineligible impairments affect support needs removed Schedule (Part) How this affects participants Forcing undergo frequent medical procedures impact capacity take all set backwards terms social connections network guarantee these achieve anything productive Ndis criteria People disabilities deserve bodily autonomy If talk groups athletes disabilities only find undergone additional procedures attempt gain independence others can do more typical profile same Disability simply because no two people Disabilities are Red won’t prescribed option terrifying Participating Sport particularly para-sport reported many athletes beneficial increasing ability participate certain daily tasks driving eating independently wheelchair skills rather than interventions Because if grow seeing different doing things cars jobs included begin start seaways You yourself

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Many sporting trajectories have been interrupted significantly through surgeries, medication trials, and while some groups of children are supportive within clubs; others fall behind due to these interruptions. This situation already forms part of managing Life With Disability & inclusive sport when parents under age 18 agree that treatments align best interests; government oversight absent, placing individuals into traumatic situations—missing opportunities like qualifying for Paralympic Games if medical intervention suddenly becomes necessary to secure funding via NDIs. Otherwise such dates could be postponed several months, making major competitions unattainable without this treatment. The short timeframe makes impossible assessing new automated processes’ consideration: such as scheduling medical procedures around sports calendars—an issue even athletes face regularly—to remain competitive or active parts of communities.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission classifications. But less known, factually speaking, is it impossible actually classify all disabilities? or their various impacts? So we must focus instead on those most severely impacting someone’s ability: to swim/run/ride bicycle. one place you’ll see such combinations is where individuals with physical disability also exhibit autism—mental health challenges ranging depression through conditions require additional supports like equipment & physical assistance but without right mental health care or PTSD treatment success participation in sport unlikely—a sad day indeed for Ndis participants research shows Sport beneficially manages depression.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

athlete is to observe these patterns and work with the athlete to create plans so that supports drive seamlessly. Administering eye Can assessments with individuals who are even Allied health professionals Little line having experience of everyday life leaves open a lot potential for not asking key follow-up questions someone either around or very familiar with them. Disability would know they need ask gain information flush out picture what can do And day you’re asking question might it’s not where person didn’t get bed because flareup pain cause reduce function kind weekly event on behalf person At moment Allied health professional knows person trained kinds provide reports enabling people receive sufficient funding Recommendation: Continue use Allied health professional assessment concern genuinely affordable postcode lottery based support some people afford reports Medicare line item enable people assesses required Ndis Alternatively could fund assessments required meet access Funding freed up constant reassessment stable disabilities whose needs don’t change example large number lower M amputee want go through hoops regular plan assessment because they know what they need Money saved avoiding re-assessments those don’t need things providing funding before crisis point deterioration Do proceed I-CAN functional capacity tool unless validated identify all disability including episodic fluctuating culturally appropriate First Peoples disability Supports cut replacement system ready The issue: From October government announced funding social civic community participation will be reduced 50 per cent building daily activities by participants reductions implemented ministerial instrument power Schedule Part Foundational Supports intended fill gap confirmed implementation date operational How this affects participants supports help connect their build skills maintain independence may cut anything

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

exists to replace them, leaving carers and families with greater responsibilities and no additional support. These supports are often what help people stay visible, connected and safe. social network future employment contacts social skills. In the many other benefits we see fromSport. This will have a severe impact.We’ve reduced funding in this area.People are going tohave to prioritise things like hospitaland doctors appointments anda bar essentialsto exist meaning Sportswillbeoneofthe thingspushedtosome side. That isasad stateoffairnesswhenyoulookatthestateandfederal budgets simultaneouslypouring moneyinto developing Stars offutureforth eHome games.Because thereare amazing programsnow availableforallathletesthatwemight beabletoBe accessedbecauseyouneeda Support Workerhelp youtogo common Transport days.And then ifyouarerelatedtosport,youneedthesupportWorker assist youtodosports andthenext stepon that pathway wouldbeget your own equipmentbegin training regularlywith clubstarting compete.When all of thosethings requiresupportyou literally removing paralympic athletesfuture.Something unique just boughtpeople disabilitiesis Sportliterally becomesway learn how do life.Unlike non disabled peopledon’t always havesome onearound uslearnfrom.So when seegroup people withdisabilitiesplaying basketballor travelling world sportthere’s notjust sport happening.In car park even before everybody got inside door parents young childchild seeing talking grown ups about drive hand controls realising future potential for the child having okaylife because person parked next them also disabled. Andperson whoparkednextthem has job enabled buy theircardrive themselves therethe person in car next to them with partner children family DogSporting Dreams started out charity enable people participate sports very quickly found difference making families communities as Sports being vehicle learning best version oneself possible peer support networking. It’ long tradition aroundworld experienceddisabled athletestime effort giving back helping develop same way someone

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

Recommendation: Require that no reductions to community participation or capacity building supports take effect.

Conclusion:

The Ndis has been life changing just like Sport is for people around Australia. Enables Australia Australians should become the best version of themselves and then live full potential with support that looks like equipment Adelaide health professionals’ ‘support workers’. Being able to identify the correct support for the occasion is the game changer when the NDis came in.’ Before the NDis,’ people were trapped in multiple inflexible systems that didn’t completely meet their needs and how to try’ and fit it around it. A resultis many people did't participate ’in sport. If this bill is brought now without due investment nthe national disability strategy', the Ndis review well commission recommendations a long lead time developing ' a community that much more inclusive.A lot are going thrown off the Ndis have funding reduced.When you cut funds, not just cutting budget line item.You're cutting future headline used Storey for`, beyond Australian sport You’re cutting out opportunity someone be teenager who broke through beat household name sprinter to

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission take the gold medal. You’re cutting away the chance to find the future Madi di Rozario or Dylan Alcott. This bill returns to a charity model for Disability where participating in Sport means massive fundraising for organisations like ours under tough economic conditions. The bill suggests better chances for disability athletes not due natural talent but from wealthy families who can help them around with needed support, suggesting throwing individuals into worlds without foundational supports created before the introduction of NDIs. as an organisation existing pre-NDI Sporting Dreams knows why people survived chaotic environments through family wealth sponsorship donations. Many charities supporting everyday needs have ceased operations; our donation levels decreased significantly; moving back towards fee-for-service models eroded long-term relationships bringing great outcomes.

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

We know that more than every dollar put out into the community through the Ndls returns over two dollars into the economy. And that is to Mum and Dad small businesses who build sporting equipment because they saw a need and realised there was not going to be a market for it, wit people having the choice to spend their funding buying equipment from provider they know personally who attends local sporting events watches them compete conscript their everyday wheelchair and their Sporting Wheelchair. That huge difference previous system where Equipment provided list sellers Queensland under something called medical aid subsidy scheme. There one designated maintenance company under that system very long wait times Athletes around Australia variety different state-based systems struggled cover Funding They had become resilient good at fundraising rely on Goodwill Community charities There significant gender impact females provide larger amount unpaid domestic labour It heartbreaking board charity receive requests help year can possibly give decide who’s getting funding We tried nation already before ndis what like when different State governments ran games so you didn’t have equal opportunity across country each area in country worked well has been massive reforms changes consistently years Disabled shown we are resilient overcome learn new systems try survive But this bill lack appeal rights individualisation says saving Ndis future cutting costs costing far managed measured budget bottom line intangible benefits such self-confidence social network participation Literally though take away Sport someone life no longer physically strong less independent support work Take away sense belonging purpose now feeding health network frequent strengthening exercise exercises allows participate every day Life Sports safely presenting with Health crisis emergency department

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

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission

In Sport, we talk about developing whole people and systems and ecosystems around the person to get the best out of them. This bill is about the opposite it’s shifting the entire dynamic of the NdIs from focusing on How do we support disabled persons to being their very best selves? Legislation talks saving money sustainability scheme. We have athletes who lived before ndis already well means cost doesn’t go away disability cow responsibility cost simply moves elsewhere whether health housing age care This Bill creates class system Australia where you can need if are wealthy If disabled access NDis might be able details existence provided new version actually met needs because they don’t appeal rights If a disabled does qualify now or relying small organisations like us elderly community buying sausage sizzle corporate donations constantly drying up between living crisis general belief in Community that helps disabled people now See talking lot not taking part sport life Not having reason live It’s exaggeration say online PSA groups right now talk accessing voluntary assisted dying suicide Support The ndis didn’t roll parts Queensland fully until so hasn’t even been decade recommend scrapped focus sustaining future generations looks addressing ways cut costs save money NDIS create harm participants Due short timeframe cannot provide extensive list suggestions but would welcome opportunity address Parliament some suggestions Yours Sincerely, Marayke Jonkers PLY Sporting Dreams President

Submission 1735 - Supplementary Submission