Submission to the Senate Inquiry into the

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

Submission: [2173]

Introduction

My name is redacted, and I am an NDIS participant as well as being involved professionally. I’ve been using this service since approximately five years ago; during that time, as someone who has worked directly supporting people like myself—those affected by autism—and those dealing with multiple sclerosis—I’ve seen firsthand how important it’s become! The NDIS helps individuals achieve independence in life while also allowing them access to employment opportunities which can lead towards a more dignified lifestyle overall; it’s clear why these changes are so concerning given what they might mean on both sides: potential reductions/restrictions regarding funds allocated specifically toward enhancing social participation within communities where such services play crucial roles. These include helping participants engage fully across various aspects of their lives—from basic day-to-day activities through complex interactions needed when navigating everyday scenarios.

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

Submission 2173

significantly increased my independence and confidence. They have helped me advocate for myself more effectively, and engage more successfully in employment and community life. Without these supports, I would be at greater risk of social isolation and would struggle to manage situations that many people take for granted. While social participation funding is sometimes viewed as optional, for many autistic people it is a vital support that enables us to participate in society on a more equal basis.

Concerns About Changes to “Reasonable and Necessary” Supports

I am concerned that changes to the definition of “reasonable” and necessary“) could make it more difficult for participants to access the supports they genuinely need.from my experience disability support not simply about meeting basic physical needs Many supports prevent larger problems from developing. Supports help with communication Social understanding advocacy emotional wellbeing community participa often reduce nee intensive interventions later.If these supports become harder accessible participants may appear coping initially but their wellbeingemployment mental healthindependence gradually decline.Increased Expectations Families Unpaid Carers

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

Submission 2173

Concerns Regarding Increased Expectation of Family Supports

I am particularly concerned about any changes that place greater expectations on families and informal supports. When I have experienced gaps in my plan or insufficient support, the burden has shifted onto family members and other informal supports. This created significant stress for everyone involved and contributed to a decline in mental health. If NDIS supports are reduced, the reality is that the need for support does not disappear. Instead, that responsibility is transferred to family members and friends who may already be under pressure themselves. In my own experience, increased reliance on informal supports can create strain in relationships and leave participants feeling like a burden. This can have serious impacts on mental health, self-esteem, and overall wellbeing.

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

Submission 2173

Participants should not be placed in a position where they must continually prove that they have tried enough interventions before receiving the supports they need to live independently and participate in society.

Why These Supports Matter

One thing I would like the Committee to understand is that the NDIS can already be extremely difficult for people with disabilities to navigate.

• Many participants rely heavily on support workers, family members, advocates, and professionals to understand the system and access the supports they need.- When participants appear to be doing well, it is often because their supports are working. Success should not be interpreted as evidence that supports are no longer needed.In my own life, NDIS supports have helped me maintainemploymentandnavigatedifficultworkplacesituations.TherehavebeentimeswhenIneededaassistanceadvocatingformyselfwithemyemployerandanunderstandingthemostappropriatewaytocommunicateinchallengingsocialsituations.ThesesupportshelpedmremainemployedandinaintainpositiveworkplacerelationshipsWithoutthosesupports,mymploymentanndmentalhealthcouldhavbeensignificantlyaffected.As adisabilitysupportworker,IalsoseethepositiveimpactthesesupportshaveonthepeopleIworkwit.Manyparticipantsareabletolivemoreindependently

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

Submission 2173

participate more fully in their communities because of the assistance they receive through the NDIS.

Recommendations

I respectfully recommend that the Committee:

• Protect funding for social and community participation supports and recognise their role in maintaining independence, mental health, and employment.
• Ensure any changes to the definition of “reasonable and necessary” supports do not reduce access to supports that prevent deterioration and promote participation.
• Avoid increasing reliance on families and unpaid carers as a substitute for funded disability supports.
• Ensure participants are not required to exhaust every possible treatment option before accessing necessary disability supports.
• Recognise that successful outcomes often demonstrate that supports are working and should not be used as justification for reducing support.
• Continue meaningful consultation with people with disability and those with lived experience before implementing significant changes to the NDIS.

Conclusion The NDIS has played an important role in helping me live more independently, maintain employment, advocate for myself, and participate in my community. As both an NDIS participant and a disability support worker, I am concerned that some of the proposed changes may unintentionally

National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment Bill

Securing NDIS Future Generations: Submission #2063

The bill aims at reducing support provided daily. This request urges careful consideration from committee members regarding potential impacts:

• On individuals, families,& carers; disability persists without removal; instead shifting burdens can lead severe mental & physical repercussions including loss in independence&employment opportunities.