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

Submission 2120

I am an occupational therapy student writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026.

I am deeply concerned that the proposed changes risk reducing access to essential supports for people with disability and may undermine the individualized nature of the NDIS.

In particular, I am concerned about the proposed reductions to capacity building supports and social, civic and community participation supports. These supports are critical in helping participants build independence, maintain routines, access education and employment opportunities, participate in their communities, and improve long-term outcomes. Reducing these supports will likely increase social isolation, place greater pressure on families and carers, and lead to poorer health and wellbeing outcomes.

I am also concerned about the increased use of automated systems, algorithms and standardised tools in decision-making. Disability support needs are highly individual and complex, and cannot be accurately captured through “tick-box” systems alone. Professional judgement from qualified allied health professionals, including occupational therapists, is essential to ensure fair and appropriate assessments and funding decisions.

Another major concern is the expansion of ministerial powers to reduce or restrict categories of supports at a system-wide level. Funding decisions should remain transparent, evidence-based and centred on individual need rather than broad cost-cutting measures. I believe these proposed powers reduce accountability and create uncertainty for participants who rely on consistent supports to function safely and independently.

I am also worried that the Bill may narrow access to the NDIS in practice, particularly for children, people with psychosocial disability, and individuals with fluctuating or complex conditions whose needs may not be easily reflected in standardised assessments. Early intervention and ongoing support are vital, and people should not lose access to services before alternative supports are fully established and accessible.

Additionally, the proposed restrictions on reassessment and review processes are concerning. People’s circumstances and support needs can change unexpectedly, and limiting reassessments to “exceptional circumstances†may prevent participants from accessing timely and appropriate support when they need it most.

I urge Parliament to reconsider these proposed changes.

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

Submission 2120

• funding decisions remain based on individual needs and qualified professional assessment;
• automated decision-making does not replace human oversight;
• participants retain access to capacity building, therapy and community participation supports;
• reassessment pathways remain flexible and accessible; and
• the Bill does not reduce access to the Scheme for people with complex or fluctuating disabilities. I also encourage the Committee to consider and adopt the recommendations put forwarded by Occupational Therapy Australia as part of the ““No OT, No NDIS”campaign.“Thank you for considering my submission.` Occupational Therapy Student