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

Submission 1767

I am writing this submission to express concerns regarding aspects of the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026.

I understand and support the importance of ensuring the long-term sustainability of the NDIS. The Scheme must remain viable for future generations of Australians with disability. However, i am concerned that some proposed reforms may unintentionally create additional barriers, stress, and instability for participants who rely on the NDIS to live safely and independently.

As someone with lived experience navigating disability support systems, I have seen firsthand how important consistency, flexibility, and accessible support can be to a person’s quality of life. The uncertainty surrounding ongoing reforms, reassessments, and funding limitations can create significant stress and anxiety for participants, particularly for people already managing autism, psychosocial disabilities, trauma, chronic illness, or other complex support needs.

Many disabilities are not always visible or easily measurable through rigid assessment systems. Requiring participants to repeatedly prove permanence or justify supports can become emotionally exhausting and financially difficult. For some people, simply navigating paperwork, reports, reviews, and administrative requirements can become a barrier in itself.

I am particularly concerned about proposed changes that may narrow the interpretation of what is considered “reasonable and necessary” support. Supports that may appear minor from a policy or budgeting perspective can still play a major role in maintaining independence, routine, mental health, social connection, and community participation. Flexible supports are often what allow participants to attend appointments, continue education, maintain employment, or safely engage with the community.

The proposed expansion of automated decision-making processes also raises concerns around fairness and transparency. Disability support decisions should involve meaningful human oversight and consideration of individual circumstances. Participants should feel heard and understood rather than processed through systems that may not fully capture the realities of living with disability.

While I acknowledge the need to address fraud, improve governance, and ensure sustainability within the NDIS, reforms should not unintentionally punish genuine participants or create additional fear around accessing support. The focus of the Scheme should remain on improving the lives, dignity, independence, and wellbeing of disabled Australians.

I encourage the Government and Senate Committee to ensure reforms are implemented carefully, with strong safeguards, genuine consultation with the disability community, and accessible review pathways for participants who may struggle to advocate for themselves.

The NDIS has positively changed the lives of many Australians. Future reforms should strengthen the Scheme while continuing to protect the safety, stability, and quality of life of the people it was created to support.