National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026 Submission 2309
Submission to the Senate Community Affairs Legislation Committee – NDIS Future Generation Bill
My name is . I am the parent of two autistic children who rely on NDIS supports to participate in their community, build skills, and access opportunities that many families take for granted. I am writing because I am deeply concerned about aspects of the NDIS Future Generation Bill and the impact it may have on people with disability and their families.
I support efforts to ensure the NDIS remains sustainable into the future; however, I do not support changes that reduce access to essential supports or create additional barriers for people with permanent disabilities. I am particularly concerned about the proposed 50% reduction to social and community participation funding.
For many people with disability, community participation is not an optional extra. It is how they build confidence, social skills, communication skills, emotional regulation, independence, and a sense of belonging. My children do not access community activities in the same way as their neurotypical peers. They often need additional support to participate safely and successfully. Without these supports, many activities simply become inaccessible.
I have seen firsthand how the right support can change a child’s life. My daughter has previously been excluded from community programs because staff did not understand her autism. When she has access to appropriate support, she is able to participate alongside her peers, build confidence, learn social skills, regulate her emotions, and experience genuine inclusion. She comes home calmer, more regulated, and proud of herself. These are not just benefits for today; they are the foundations that help her become an independent and contributing adult in the future.
I am concerned that reducing community participation funding may save money in the short term but create greater costs in the long term. Children with disability need opportunities to learn the skills required to participate in education, employment, relationships, and community life. When we invest in inclusion and skill-building early, we increase the likelihood that people with disability can live more independently as adults. When those opportunities are reduced, we risk increasing social isolation, poorer mental health, and a greater need for support later in life.
I ask the Committee to recommend that the proposed reduction to social and community participation funding not proceed. The NDIS should continue to support opportunities that foster inclusion, connection, skill development, and independence. These supports are not only important for the wellbeing of children and families today; they are an investment in a future where people with disability can participate more fully in society and require less support over time.
Thank you for considering my submission.
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