NDIA Accountability Project

Jocelyne's progress at risk due to Social and Community Participation funding reduction

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

Submission 2085

Submission to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee Inquiry into the National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026

Submitted by: Sharon Dymock Date: 27 May 2026 Publication: I do consent to this submission being published with my name.

My name is Sharon Dymock i have known and supported Jocelyne, a woman living with Congenital Rubella Syndrome, for over 15 years. During that time, I have witnessed an extraordinary transformation. When I first met Jocelyne she was still quite traumatised with significant behavioural & Mental Health challenges after having spent much of her life moving through institutions and foster care environments.

Over the years, through consistent support, stability, compassion, and access to appropriate NDIS funding, Jocelyne has achieved what many once thought impossible. She now lives independently in her own home, operates a small business, participates meaningfully in her community, and has developed skills, confidence, and emotional regulation that have greatly improved her quality of life. This progress did not happen quickly or easily — it was built carefully over many years with the right supports in place.

I am deeply concerned about the proposed changes to the NDIS, particularly the anticipated 50% reduction to Jocelyne’s Social and Community Participation funding. These supports are not optional extras; they are the foundation that enables her to maintain her independence, emotional wellbeing, safety, and community connection. Removing these supports risks leaving her isolated for up to 20 hours per week without assistance, which could undo years of progress and place her at serious risk of regression, including self harm.

My greatest fear is that these changes will force Jocelyne backwards into crisis, over-medication, institutional dependence, and social isolation after years of hard work to build a meaningful and productive life. I strongly urge decision-makers to consider the long-term human cost of these proposed changes and the devastating impact they will have on Jocelyne & others in similar situations.