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

Submission 2159

Submission to the Senate Inquiry into the NDIS Future Generations Bill 2026

I am writing as both a parent of a Level 2 autistic teenager and a person living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). I appreciate the importance of ensuring the long-term sustainability of the NDIS; however, I am concerned about proposals that place too much emphasis on narrow assessments of “functional capacity” when determining disability support needs. For many people with progressive or variable disabilities, disabled individuals’ ability can fluctuate significantly from day-to-day due conditions such as MS may deteriorate over time. A person might appear capable during short assessment periods while still experiencing substantial barriers in daily life employment parenting community participation Similarly autism’s support requirements vary greatly depending environment stress sensory demands stage Functional snapshot doesn’t always capture ongoing support needed maintain stability wellbeing participate respectfully ask Committee ensure legislation recognises lived reality progressive episodic variables capabilities Assessment processes should consider long term impacts unpredictability cumulative fatigue additional burden placed families carers The NDIS was designed to support Australians live dignity independence inclusion hope final reflects these principles unintentionally exclude those whose disabilities don’t fit within narrow functional categories Thank you considering my submission.