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

Submission: Submission 212

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

I am writing as a parent/carer of an individual with disability relying on the NDIS.

The NDIS has made significant improvements in Australia; however, I support reforms aimed at sustainability but express concern about proposed changes placing further strain without addressing inefficiencies within current systems such as excessive administrative costs leading to unnecessary disputes among professionals, inconsistent planning decisions resulting from poor administration, delays due to inefficient communication channels, duplication efforts during evidence gathering, lack consideration given professional reports when making assessments, lengthy ART proceedings involving NDIA-funded barristers against individuals who often feel overwhelmed and vulnerable simultaneously experiencing reductions/reductions in their supported services requiring private funding which adds substantial stress financially and emotionally.

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

Submission 212

There appears little consideration given regarding broader public costs being shifted elsewhere through these disputes. Many participants require legal assistance just to understand their process or defend themselves against an intimidating adversarial system involving multiple conferences submissions hearings which places further strain upon publicly funded community services already under pressure. The effect extends beyond emotional stress Carers spend countless hours preparing evidence coordinating reports attending meetings responding submitting navigating review processes often forcing parents carers reduce work step away employment opportunities entirely manage demands created by inefficient systems provide removed support roles. This has direct economic implications Families who could otherwise participate more fully in tax-paying jobs are instead diverted into unpaid administrative caring roles due inefficiencies. A wider economic consequence arises from reduced funding itself Support workers also taxpayers when participant supports cut so do job prospects for them Flow-on impacts workforce participation local economies should not be ignored assessing true financial consequences cuts made. Long-term outcomes must consider most importantly Participants’ own future independence, workforce engagement long-term contributions crucially affected if right supports withdrawn delayed milestones harder achieve pushed farther ahead. Early investment is far more than cost It represents significant potential future independence workforce participation and long-term contribution. It’s difficult comprehend this approach as good fiscal management government resources spent on barristers prolonged proceedings repeated hearings families with disability while simultaneously reducing very supports helping move toward greater self-sufficiency. The current system feels adversarial rather supportive. Already managing disabilities health education care responsibilities shouldn’t require expertise legislation preparation tribunal procedures simply secure reasonable necessary assistance. I am concerned increasing push plan arrangements While can assist some participants default pathway additional federal funds administration instead of direct benefits reviewed including NDIA operational inefficiencies overheads. For our family Uncertainty delays have real-world impact Education participation wellbeing stability mental well-being significantly compromised.

The Committee ensure reforms to the NDIS:

• protect genuine lifelong needs decision-making quality improve consistency

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

Submission 212

give proper weight to qualified professional evidence reduce unnecessary reviews and tribunal escalation reduce administrative waste within the NDIA itself recognise the economic contribution of carers, support workers and participants place participant wellbeing and long-term independence at the centre of reform I support a sustainable NDIS. But sustainability should not be achieved by making life harder for persons with disabilities and their families while systemic inefficiencies remain unresolved. The individuals affected need genuine consideration, before significant reforms are implemented. Thank you for providing me an opportunity.