National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 2030
Name:
Occupation: Support Worker
- Connection to the Issue
I have worked as a support worker for the past four years with a client who has complex and significant health needs. This client was previously hospitalised for two months due to the severity of her medical condition, which made it unsafe for her to be discharged earlier. She has been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Functional Neurological Disorder, severe Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), type 2 diabetes, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and fibromyalgia.
As a result of these conditions, she experiences daily seizures and frequently requires assistance with basic activities such as getting out of bed and showering. Without consistent and appropriate support, her ability to live safely and independently would be significantly compromised.
Given her history of falling through gaps within the system, I am concerned that the introduction of “non-contactable” participant engagement rules could place her at serious risk of losing essential supports. Additionally, increased reliance on automated systems may further disadvantage her, as her circumstances are highly complex and require nuanced, person-centred assessment.
- Overall View of the Bill
I oppose this bill. I believe that any proposed changes to the system should be developed in genuine consultation with the community and accompanied by the implementation of appropriate alternative supports before being enacted at a systemic level.
- Main Concerns
I am particularly concerned about:
- Loss or reduction of supports
- Community participation
- Crisis situations and “not contactable” rules
- Eligibility or assessment changes
The ambiguity surrounding the proposed rules raises significant concerns regarding the continuity of care for vulnerable individuals. In the case of my client, any reduction or disruption to her support would place her at considerable risk.
Due to her type 2 diabetes, she requires monitoring of her blood glucose levels, particularly during periods of frequent seizures. In addition, her PTSD contributes to severe sleep disturbances, including prolonged periods of wakefulness followed by physical collapse, during which she requires continuous, 24/7 support.
National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 2030
Over the past four years, she has had five different service providers, largely due to insufficient NDIS funding to meet her complex needs. This has not only -disrupted her continuity of care but has also placed significant strain on support workers attempting to provide adequate assistance within limited resources.
I respectfully urge the Committee to consider the serious risks posed by any reduction in support for individuals with complex needs such as my client. Further limitations could have life-threatening consequences. I ask that the Committee carefully reconsider the relevant elements of this bill.
Warm regards,⁊