National Disability Insurance Scheme Amendment (Securing the NDIS for Future Generations) Bill 2026
Submission 245
To whom it may concern,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the proposed budget cuts and restrictions to the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
While I acknowledge that reform is necessary and that concerns around fraud and misuse should be addressed, the NDIS was created to support disabled Australians and provide them with the resources needed to live safely, independently, and with dignity. It also plays a vital role in helping families navigate the complex realities of how to support and care for a loved one living with a disability.
I am deeply concerned that the proposed funding cuts and increased reliance on artificial intelligence within the scheme will have serious and harmful consequences for vulnerable members of the community. Many NDIS participants are unable to work, lack family support, or rely entirely on the scheme for essential daily assistance. For these individuals, the NDIS is not a luxury — it is critical to their survival, wellbeing, and ability to participate in society.
The proposed 50% funding reduction would have devastating impacts on participants’ lives and could place many at higher risk of homelessness, injury, deteriorating health, neglect, and social isolation. Tasks that many people take for granted — such as showering, eating, attending appointments, or leaving the house safely — can be extremely difficult or impossible without proper support in place.
I am also concerned about the increased integration of artificial intelligence into assessment and decision making processes. Disability support cannot be approached with a “one size fits all” model. Every participant has unique needs, circumstances, and challenges that require human understanding, empathy, and professional judgement. Overreliance on automated systems risks overlooking the complexity of individual lives and could result in vulnerable people being denied essential support.
Additionally, the proposed restrictions on “Unscheduled Plan Reassessments” have created significant fear and uncertainty among participants and families already under immense financial and emotional pressure. Many parents are working multiple jobs simply to afford medical, therapeutic, and psychiatric care for their children while struggling through the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
I am aware that corruption and misuse exist within the NDIS and have personally witnessed examples of this myself. However, broad funding cuts are not the solution. Parliament has an opportunity to strengthen oversight, improve accountability, and target fraud directly while preserving the support systems that genuinely vulnerable Australians depend on.
I ask members of the Senate to consider what it would be like to lose the ability to perform basic daily tasks independently, to be unable to leave home safely without assistance, or to live with the constant fear of homelessness and abandonment by the systems meant to protect you.
I urge the committee to prioritise meaningful reform, participant protection, and targeted anti-fraud measures rather than implementing sweeping cuts that will disproportionately harm disabled Australians and their families.
Yours sincerely,